An eddy-current-based magnetic braking device includes two external elements flanking a central element that is aligned with a same axis as the external elements and that rotates about said axis with respect to the external elements, the external elements each bearing magnets that emit a magnetic flux that engenders in the central element eddy currents. The magnets are placed so as to generate a magnetic attraction between the external elements. Friction-based braking surfaces are joined so as to rotate as one with the external elements and with the central element, respectively. The external elements are moveable with respect to the axis between a proximate position of the central element, in which position the first braking surfaces are held applied against the second braking surfaces via the magnetic attraction, and a separated position of the central element, in which position the first braking surfaces are separated from the second braking surfaces.