Today it can be easy to be blasé about technology.  Everything is evolving at such a fast rate that before we turn around to appreciate it … it’s gone.  So let’s talk about an invention from the mid-1800’s that is on your watch right now … the Crown.  You know, that little “whozie” on the side that you use to set the time, change the date (if you have that feature), and even wind your watch.  Well it wasn’t always so easy.  At one time you actually needed a key to wind your watch … remember the one that was hanging from your grandfather’s pocket watch chain ?  It wasn’t just decoration.  Or maybe you have a couple family heirloom watches and the keys have been lost, then you really understand.  Of course, not to fret … your watch will still show the correct time twice a day (sorry, I could not resist).  The basic function of the crown is unchanged over the past 200 years and when you start turning it for any function, what goes on inside could be best described as a miracle.  If you want a detailed description check out page 33 of Lucien F. Trueb’s “The World of Watches” or if you want to just discuss all the technicalities with like minded watch enthusiasts go to the forums at WatchUSeek.  Till next time … Happy Winding !!!!!