Thorens clutch system

It’s over complicated and not needed. I’ve never had issues pulling a record off a spinning plater, carefully of course. But why is this even a thing? DJ'ing of course. 

Recently, I had the bearing in my TD-124 changed over. It lifted the platter just a smidge, but it was enough to render the clutch inoperable. It is not hard to readjust it (three nylon screws under the platter), but I haven't gotten to it yet. In the meantime, I am using the 124 like every other turntable, and it is fine. But for some reason, I really like that feature, and will adjust it soon.

I don't know of any other turntable that did such a thing. I bet it was helpful in a radio station in the old days, lining up cuts to play before re-engaging the platter. 

David