An escapement that utilizes two co-axial balance wheels with an ultimate goal of increasing precision and longevity by reducing friction. The co-axial escapement utilizes two balance wheels to engage four pallet jewels, dividing the roles of impulse action and locking action to one pair of pallets each. Several factors lead to reduction of friction. First, as one of the pallets is located directly on the roller, the impulse delivery is more direct. Second, the division of roles means that a pallet jewel does not need to advance the tooth of the escape wheel via sliding against it. Previously this was because the jewel also needed to be shaped to lock the tooth. This allows the pallet to push directly on the tooth, reducing a great deal of sliding friction. Third, the reduced friction reduces the need for lubrication, which may have an adverse effect on accuracy in the long run.