Swiss lateral levers?

[artb]

I have noticed use of a long sideways action lever in many no name Swiss 1850? moderate grade p.w. Looks like it would be sluggish and frictional. Wonder why it was used? Maybe a ruggeder arrangement than the then current duplex and cylinder types in similar age fine watches. I guess the popular Massey lever was a better similar one? 2 photos of the lateral lever and of a later fine quality tiny lever low inertia, low drag one. Mainly interested in knowing if lateral? lever had any advantages. I have good examples of detent, duplex, cylinder as well. All work fine.

[AbslomRob]

Your attachments didn't show up; are you refering to the English style side-lever (similar to the ones used in the early Waltham and Elgin 18s pocket watches)?

[artb]

Interesting question. Not sure if lateral lever name applies here. Would Massey lever be a side lever?
Unaware of Waltham and Elgin side levers and will look up.

My uninformed prejudiced opinion best simple Swiss lever I have. Maybe someone can verify it is a LeCoultre 17L movement ~1880?

[AbslomRob]

Well, to be honest, it's mostly just a question of form; technically; a true english lever wouldn't be using a club-tooth (like most of the Massey levers). From an engineering perspective, I don't think there's any real mechanical difference between mounting the pallets on the side or straight on, other then the fact that the side lever looks like it requires a bit more room to implement. The side lever is also easier to poise, if you're so inclined. The original Waltham 18s watches were done in the style of the English watches of the time, which meant they used a side lever and didn't use club-teeth. Even the model 57 was originally designed with pointed teeth, although they quickly switched over to blunt teeth and ultimately to club teeth.

[artb]

Rob: Thanks for informed opinion about the lever. Satisfies very well my curiosity. Let me know if you recognize the little lever movement maker above.