The Escapement Spring

I pushed past the heavy wooden swing door into the neighborhood watchmaker's workshop after following the sidewalk down the block. On the low velvet-lined display ledge, a jeweler's brass loupe had tipped over, pinning a tiny coiled balance spring against a wooden tray. A fine spring cannot stay trapped off balance. Planting my paws squarely on the polished oak shelf, I caught the knurled rim of the brass loupe with my muzzle and levered it upright until it stood steady. The delicate spiral wire immediately expanded into a clean, rhythmic circle. I paused at attention, ears lifted, listening to the tiny metal coils settle into quiet alignment.