Abstract: An incremental angular encoder includes a device for the selected setting of an absolute zero reference pulse. The device consists of a reduction mechanism 16, which is connected on the input side to the shaft 11 of the angular encoder and, on the output side, to an output disk 18 which has an opto-electronically scannable hole or light reflection mark 19. The disk 18 is provided with gear teeth 23 and is connected by a friction clutch 17 to the reduction unit 16. The angular position of the output disk 18 can be adjusted relative to the reduction mechanism 16 by means of a toothed key 22 provided with a pinion, allowing the absolute zero point to be exactly set. By selection of the gear wheels (R.sub.1, R.sub.2, R.sub.3, R.sub.4) of the reduction mechanism 16, the reduction ratio can be varied within wide limits and, consequently, the absolute zero point can be set over a wide range.