sweep-second
Noun: A sweep-second is a type of second hand on a clock or watch. It is mounted on the same central point as the hour and minute hands, allowing it to move in a continuous, sweeping motion around the dial, rather than in discrete ticks. This hand indicates the seconds and is read in relation to the minute markers.
The term is used to describe a specific feature of a timepiece's mechanism and display. * The vintage watch has a beautiful sweep-second hand that glides smoothly. * He prefers watches with a sweep-second because the motion is more fluid than a ticking hand.
- The term is often used in horology (the study of timekeeping) to distinguish this type of seconds hand from one placed on a smaller sub-dial.
- It is sometimes called a "centre seconds" hand.
- Sweep seconds hand (noun phrase): A more common, full term for the same feature.
- Centre seconds (noun): A synonym, emphasizing the hand's position on the central axis.
- Centre seconds hand
- Continuous seconds hand
The term sweep-second is highly specific to watch and clock design and does not commonly have other meanings. It should not be confused with the general concept of "sweeping" or the verb "to sweep."
- a second hand that is mounted on the same center as the hour and minute hand and is read on the minutes