Dial feet are the parts of a dial that go into holes drilled in the movement’s pillar plate. They are usually secured there with screws. Their positions differ from one movement to another, so they can help match a replacement dial to a known pocket watch movement.
How do dial feet fit the movement?
Dial feet belong to the dial itself, not to the movement. In a conventional design, the movement’s base plate, also known as the pillar plate, has through-holes drilled in it. These holes take the dial’s feet. When the dial is fitted, each foot goes into its own hole in the plate. The feet and holes have to line up for the dial to go on.
How are dial feet held in place?
Screws are the usual way to secure dial feet to the pillar plate. Eccentrics and levers are also used. Whichever is chosen, the job takes two separate operations, both carried out from the side of the movement. Fitting a dial is therefore more than pressing it into place. The feet locate the dial; the screw, eccentric or lever stops it coming loose.
Why do dial feet matter when replacing a dial?
Foot positions are a practical guide when a pocket watch needs a replacement dial. If the movement is known, the feet on a candidate dial can be checked against the holes in its pillar plate. Each foot must meet its own hole. A dial whose feet line up with all the holes is a likely match. A dial whose feet sit elsewhere will not line up.
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