Rhythm of the Escapement

I stepped across the polished mahogany desk, drawn toward the rhythmic pulse of an open brass pocket watch. Resting one hand against the cool metallic rim, I felt the fine, steady oscillation of the balance wheel transmitting a faint vibration through my fingertips. Each escapement click registered with absolute symmetry in the quiet of the night. I counted sixty consecutive beats, confirming the unwavering regularity of its spring before stepping back to observe the dial in peace.