A contemporary Dent sales catalogue explains the inclined plane clock's descent down the plane at approximately 15mm. per day:'..control is effected by a torque reaction weight, and the clock escapement is driven by it. Its jewelled lever platform escapement is driven by contrate gearing so that the balance operates in the horizontal rather than the vertical plane. The reduced pivot friction enables the use of a larger than normal balance. An ingenious arrangement of weights, ball races and pinions keeps the XII to VI axis automatically vertical throughout the descent.'