What is a hairspring? How does it work?

A balance spring, or hairspring, is a spring attached to the balance wheel in mechanical timepieces. It causes the balance wheel to oscillate with a resonant frequency when the timepiece is running, which controls the speed at which the wheels of the timepiece turn, thus the rate of movement of the hands.

Which industries use hairspring?

Because of its high precision, the hairspring is widely used across several industries:

Horology (Watchmaking):
The most prominent application. Hairsprings regulate the oscillation of the balance wheel in mechanical watches, pocket watches, and marine chronometers, ensuring accurate timekeeping in both luxury and everyday mechanical timepieces.

Aerospace and Defense:
Used in mechanical cockpit instruments and time-delay fuzes, where reliable mechanical timing is required without reliance on batteries and where components must withstand extreme conditions.

Precision Measurement Instruments:
Applied in analogue electrical meters such as voltmeters, ammeters, multimeters, and galvanometers, where it provides the restoring force that controls needle movement.

Automotive Industry:
Used in traditional analogue speedometers and tachometers to convert rotational motion into accurate dial readings.

Industrial Monitoring Equipment:
Found in precision instruments such as pressure gauges, manometers, and dial indicators, where very small mechanical movements must be translated into accurate visual measurements.

How can I return a product?

We accept returns within the first 30 days. As long as the product is in new and unused condition, is in original packaging, and passes a thorough inspection, you will be eligible for a refund minus a 20% re-stocking fee (unless a replacement order is placed). Customer is responsible for the return shipping for any item ordered in error or no longer suitable.

To initiate a return, please email us your order number, a description of the issue, part number, and quantity. Once reviewed, we will provide an RMA form for you to print and include with your return shipment.

What customization capabilities do you offer?

We provide comprehensive customization services to meet specific customer requirements. This includes custom design of hairspring dimensions, material selection, thickness, width, and performance characteristics. We also support prototype development, small batch sampling, and full-scale production. Our engineering team works closely with customers to ensure each product meets precise technical specifications and application needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled answers to some commonly asked questions.

How to place an international orders?

For security reasons, we do not accept orders over the phone. Please email or send us a message with your requirements to place an international order.

Shipping charges for all International Orders do not include the duty that is imposed by your country on import. Duties and brokerage charges applied will be due upon receipt. If not paid, the order will be returned to sender at an additional cost which will be deducted from your refund.

How will my order be shipped? How can I get my tracking number?

Very carefully. All orders are shipped internationally from Kunshan, China. Orders are typically dispatched on the following business day, subject to external factors such as weather or logistics delays.

A tracking number will be provided within one business day after your order has been processed.