Abstract: A reed switch comprising a sealed capsule which includes a movable armature consisting in a beam of magnetic material having two pole ends capable of alternate contacting engagement with a respective of two distinct stationary contacts when the armature is pivoting in a longitudinal axial plane. The armature is suspended symmetrically to the ends of a helicoidal spring which extends axially around the armature beam and which is fixedly positioned inside the capsule by means of a cylindrical annular electrode. The coacting surfaces of the pole ends and the stationary contacts are provided with spots made of a material which cannot be wetted by the mercury also included in the capsule. Magnetic means in various embodiments are also provided to create the initial magnetic condition according to the mode of switching operation desired.