The model illustrates the operation of the Galilean pendulum escape.

The system comprises a wheel with ten teeth on the crown and ten cross-pegs, a catch fitted with a thin spring, and two long curved strips or laminae fastened to the pendulum hinge.

The upper strip serves to release the pendulum and the lower strip to receive the impulse.

At the end of each oscillation, the upper strip strikes the catch and lifts it, freeing the escape wheel.

As the wheel turns, it hits the lower strip and pushes it down, providing the impulse needed to keep the pendulum in motion.

As the impelling strip is pushed down, it simultaneously causes the upper strip to tilt: this causes the catch to drop, blocking the wheel.

Release and impulse occur in rapid succession at the end of each complete oscillation.