The escapement is the heart of a mechanical watch, regulating the release of energy from the mainspring and controlling the movement of the gears. It includes the pallet fork and the escape wheel, ensuring that the energy is released in precise intervals, creating the ticking motion of the watch.
The balance wheel oscillates back and forth, driven by the escapement. It acts as a timekeeping element, and its controlled motion ensures accurate timekeeping by allowing the gear train to advance in consistent increments.
The mainspring is the energy source of a mechanical watch. It is wound either manually or automatically and stores potential energy, which is gradually released to power the movement of the watch.
The gear train transmits the energy from the mainspring to the escapement and balance wheel. It consists of a series of gears that work together to regulate the speed and motion of the watch's hands.
The crown is the small knob on the side of the watch case used to wind the mainspring, set the time, and adjust various functions. In mechanical watches, winding the crown stores energy in the mainspring.
In automatic watches, the rotor is a semicircular weight that moves with the motion of the wearer's wrist, winding the mainspring through a series of gears. This eliminates the need for manual winding and keeps the watch running as long as it is worn.
Jewels are small synthetic gemstones, usually made of rubies or sapphires, placed at strategic points in the movement. They reduce friction and wear between moving parts, ensuring smooth operation and longevity of the watch.
The dial is the face of the watch, featuring hour markers, numerals, and hands. It provides a visual representation of the time and serves as a canvas for various artistic and decorative elements.
Watch hands indicate the hours, minutes, and seconds on the dial. They are mounted on the central arbor and move in a circular motion, pointing to the corresponding time markers.
Complications are additional functions or features beyond basic timekeeping. Examples include chronographs (stopwatches), moon phase displays, tourbillons (rotating escapement), and perpetual calendars.
Bridges and plates are flat metal pieces that hold various components of the movement in place. They provide structural support and contribute to the stability and durability of the watch.
The balance spring is a fine coiled spring attached to the balance wheel. Its elasticity controls the oscillation of the balance wheel, ensuring consistent and accurate timekeeping. The balance spring's role in regulating the watch's beat is paramount.
The pallet fork works in conjunction with the escape wheel in the escapement mechanism. It controls the release of energy from the escapement, allowing the gear train to advance in precise intervals.
The escapement wheel is connected to the pallet fork and is responsible for transferring energy from the gear train to the balance wheel, regulating the release of energy and creating the watch's ticking motion.
The main plate is the foundational base of the movement, serving as the framework onto which all other components are mounted. It provides structural integrity and houses the various gear trains and bridges.
Subdials are smaller secondary dials within the main dial that display additional information or complications. Common examples include chronograph counters, small seconds, and day/night indicators.
Chronograph pushers are buttons located on the side of the case that control the start, stop, and reset functions of a chronograph (stopwatch) complication.
The date wheel is a rotating disc with numerals representing the days of the month. It is controlled by the date mechanism and advances the date display at midnight.
Côtes de Genève, or Geneva Stripes, is a decorative finishing technique applied to bridges and plates. It involves parallel lines engraved into the metal, creating an elegant and visually appealing pattern.
Perlage, also known as circular graining, is a finishing technique that involves creating a pattern of small overlapping circles on the surface of bridges and plates. It adds texture and enhances the aesthetics of the movement.
The rotor bearing supports the rotor in automatic watches, allowing it to rotate freely with the motion of the wearer's wrist, thereby winding the mainspring.
Clous de Paris, or hobnail pattern, is a textured finish often found on watch dials or bezels. It features a grid of small pyramidal shapes, adding visual interest and a tactile element.
A moon phase display is a complication that tracks the lunar cycle by displaying the phases of the moon on a subdial. It adds a touch of celestial elegance to the watch dial.
The power reserve indicator is a complication that displays the amount of energy left in the mainspring, indicating how much time the watch will continue to run before requiring winding.
The rotor bridge secures the rotor in an automatic movement, ensuring its smooth rotation and efficient winding of the mainspring.
A shock absorber is a mechanism that protects the delicate components of the movement from sudden impacts, ensuring the watch remains accurate even when subjected to shocks.
The barrel houses the mainspring, storing the potential energy that powers the movement. As the mainspring unwinds, it transfers energy to the gear train.
A screw-down crown provides enhanced water resistance by sealing the crown to the case. It is commonly found in dive watches and other water-resistant models.
A push-to-set mechanism allows the wearer to adjust the time or date by simply pressing the crown, facilitating quick and convenient adjustments.
The Breguet overcoil is a specialized shape given to the balance spring's terminal curve. It improves isochronism by ensuring even distribution of tension throughout the spring's oscillations.
A slide rule bezel features logarithmic scales that allow for complex mathematical calculations, making it a functional tool on certain pilot and aviation watches.
The rehaut is the ring between the dial and the crystal. It often features minute markers and can also accommodate additional information, such as a tachymeter scale.
Luminous material, commonly Super-LumiNova, is applied to the hands, markers, and other elements of the dial. It absorbs light and emits a glow in low-light conditions.
A hacking feature stops the seconds hand when the time is being set, allowing for precise synchronization with a reference time.
A quick-release strap system allows easy removal and attachment of watch straps, enabling users to change the strap to match different occasions.
A perpetual calendar complication automatically accounts for varying month lengths and leap years, ensuring accurate date display without manual adjustment.
A GMT hand indicates a second time zone on the dial. It is typically paired with a rotating 24-hour bezel or an additional 24-hour subdial.
A moon phase indicator displays the lunar cycle, showing the waxing and waning of the moon's phases as they appear in the sky.
The tourbillon cage is a rotating carriage that holds the escapement and balance wheel. It was designed to counter the effects of gravity on accuracy.
In automatic movements, the rotor's winding direction can be unidirectional (winding in one direction) or bidirectional (winding in both directions).
A column wheel is a component in chronograph movements that controls the start, stop, and reset functions of the chronograph mechanism.
A foudroyante hand is a specialized hand on a chronograph that rotates rapidly around the dial, measuring fractions of a second.
The Geneva Seal is a prestigious quality hallmark that certifies the exceptional craftsmanship and finishing of a watch movement, particularly in Geneva.
A Lépine caliber is a movement design in which the crown is located at 12 o'clock, allowing for a slimmer and more elegant case profile.
As we venture deeper into the realm of mechanical and automatic watch components, we uncover the intricate world of horological engineering and artistry. Each of these parts, whether hidden from view or showcased on the dial, contributes to the functionality, aesthetics, and enduring appeal of these timepieces.
From the delicate Breguet overcoil to the ingenious perpetual calendar, each component weaves its thread into the tapestry of watchmaking excellence. As you explore this comprehensive glossary, you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the complexities and ingenuity that define mechanical and automatic watches, truly marveling at the fusion of human creativity and technical precision.
Before we dive into the controversial aspects, it's essential to recognize what makes Rolex watches so desirable. The brand's impeccable craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence have earned them a reputation as one of the most prestigious watchmakers globally. Rolex watches are often considered a symbol of status and success, elevating the wearer's social standing and making them a sought-after accessory for those who can afford them.
The first and most apparent factor contributing to Rolex's high prices is the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of their timepieces. Each watch undergoes rigorous testing and meticulous assembly, often involving skilled artisans who dedicate hours to creating the perfect timekeeping masterpiece. Moreover, Rolex utilizes premium materials, such as 904L stainless steel and 18k gold, further increasing production costs. As a result, buyers can be confident that they are investing in a timepiece built to stand the test of time.
Another factor behind Rolex's high prices is their strategy of maintaining an aura of exclusivity. Rolex tightly controls its supply chain and production numbers, deliberately limiting the number of watches available in the market. This approach creates a sense of scarcity, increasing demand among collectors and enthusiasts. While this exclusivity undoubtedly adds to the brand's allure, it also results in hefty price tags for those seeking to own a genuine Rolex timepiece.
Rolex's strong brand legacy and extensive marketing efforts play a crucial role in justifying their premium prices. The brand's long-standing reputation for quality and precision has fostered a sense of trust among consumers, who are willing to pay a premium for a watch that embodies excellence. Additionally, Rolex's targeted marketing campaigns and celebrity endorsements contribute to the brand's aspirational image, further driving demand and, consequently, prices.
The sunburst dial is a timeless classic known for its subtle yet mesmerizing allure. Characterized by a radiant effect that emanates from the center to the edges, sunburst dials create a captivating play of light. These dials are often found in dress watches, exuding understated elegance and sophistication. The sunburst effect enhances the overall aesthetics, making the watch dial come alive with a shimmering effect that changes with the angle of light.
Gradient dials showcase a seamless blend of colors, creating a mesmerizing transition from one hue to another. These dials offer a dynamic and eye-catching appeal, making them popular choices for fashion-forward timepieces. From vibrant bursts of color to serene ombré tones, gradient dials elevate the visual impact of a watch. The smooth color transitions add a touch of artistic finesse, reflecting the beauty of a changing sky or a stunning sunset.
For horological enthusiasts, skeleton dials offer a captivating view of the watch's intricate mechanical movement. These dials feature open-worked designs that reveal the gears and components beneath the surface. Skeleton dials provide a unique insight into the watch's inner workings and showcase the artistry of watchmaking. The delicate balance between transparency and structure creates a mesmerizing visual spectacle.
Guilloché dials are a testament to traditional watchmaking artistry. This intricate decoration involves a painstaking engraving process, resulting in mesmerizing patterns and textures. Guilloché dials are often found in high-end luxury watches, exuding a sense of sophistication and craftsmanship. The delicate guilloché patterns lend a timeless elegance to the watch, captivating the beholder with their mesmerizing details.
For those seeking ultimate luxury and opulence, diamond-set dials offer a glamorous touch. These dials feature carefully placed diamonds that add a brilliant sparkle to the watch face. Diamond dials are often paired with precious metal cases, creating a dazzling statement of luxury. The shimmering brilliance of diamonds enhances the watch's allure, making it a true symbol of prestige and extravagance.
Vintage-inspired dials pay homage to the golden era of watchmaking, capturing the charm and aesthetics of yesteryears. These dials often feature classic typography, artful numerals, and retro design elements, appealing to collectors with a penchant for nostalgia. Vintage-inspired dials evoke a sense of timeless elegance and remind us of the rich heritage of horology.
Enamel dials represent the pinnacle of watchmaking artistry. The intricate process of creating enamel dials involves applying layers of enamel onto a metal surface and firing them at high temperatures to achieve a lustrous finish. The result is a dial that boasts unmatched depth, richness, and color intensity. Enamel dials are prized for their exquisite craftsmanship and enduring beauty, making them coveted treasures in the world of luxury watches.
Cloisonné dials are true works of art on a watch's face. The technique involves forming intricate patterns using thin wire partitions filled with enamel. The dial is then fired, resulting in vibrant and detailed designs. Often depicting intricate scenes, animals, or celestial motifs, cloisonné dials showcase the watchmaker's dedication to craftsmanship and storytelling.
Mother-of-pearl dials exude an ethereal and iridescent beauty. These dials are crafted from the inner layer of seashells, resulting in a natural luster that shimmers with various colors. Mother-of-pearl dials create a captivating play of light, making each timepiece unique and exceptional. These dials are often favored in women's luxury watches for their elegant and feminine appeal.
Fumé dials offer a modern and avant-garde aesthetic. These dials feature a gradient effect, with the color transitioning from dark to light or vice versa. The gradual color shift creates an intriguing and abstract visual experience that changes based on the lighting conditions. Fumé dials are beloved for their contemporary charm and artistic flair.
The diversity of watch dial styles and decorations is a testament to the boundless creativity and craftsmanship within the world of horology. From classic elegance to modern artistry, each dial design carries its unique appeal, reflecting the personality and character of the watch. Whether it's the understated allure of a sunburst dial or the opulent radiance of diamond-set dials, the watch dial remains an artistic canvas that brings watches to life with timeless elegance and captivating allure.
As watchmakers continue to push the boundaries of creativity, we can look forward to new innovations and inspirations that will grace the dials of future timepieces, perpetuating the legacy of exquisite watchmaking artistry.
Founded in 2004 by Mike France, Chris Ward, and Peter Ellis, Christopher Ward emerged as a London-based watch brand with a mission to create premium timepieces without the exorbitant price tags associated with traditional luxury watches. The founders envisioned a brand that would combine British design with Swiss watchmaking expertise to offer exceptional quality watches.
From its inception, Christopher Ward focused on blending British design elements with Swiss horological expertise. The brand's watches are designed in London, reflecting the capital's rich heritage and sophisticated aesthetics. To ensure impeccable precision, each timepiece undergoes Swiss craftsmanship and rigorous quality control, earning the brand a reputation for accuracy and reliability.
One of Christopher Ward's most iconic and popular collections is the Trident series. Launched in 2008, the Trident collection pays homage to the brand's British roots and love for the sea. These diving watches are renowned for their exceptional water resistance and stylish designs, making them a favorite among watch enthusiasts and divers alike.
Christopher Ward is one of the few watch brands to offer a significant number of COSC-certified chronometers at competitive prices. The brand's commitment to accuracy and precision has been recognized with multiple awards and accolades, further solidifying its position in the watch industry.
In a bold move that disrupted traditional watch retail, Christopher Ward embraced e-commerce as its primary sales channel. This approach allowed the brand to offer high-quality watches at competitive prices by cutting out the intermediaries. Additionally, their direct-to-consumer model provided customers with an immersive online buying experience.
The history of Christopher Ward is a story of passion, innovation, and a dedication to offering exceptional luxury watches at accessible prices. From its humble beginnings in 2004 to becoming a prominent name in the horological world, Christopher Ward has stayed true to its vision of delivering precision, craftsmanship, and affordability.
With its unique combination of British heritage and Swiss precision, Christopher Ward has captured the hearts of watch enthusiasts worldwide. As the brand continues to evolve and expand its diverse collections, it remains committed to delivering timeless elegance and exceptional value in every timepiece.
]]>Rolex is one of the most well-known and respected watch brands in the world. The company was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf, a German watchmaker who emigrated to England. Rolex quickly became known for its high-quality watches, and in 1919 it became the first watch brand to go public on the London Stock Exchange.
Rolex's IPO strategy was successful for several reasons. First, the company had a strong track record of growth and profitability. Rolex had been gaining market share for years, and its watches were known for their quality and durability. Second, the company had a strong brand. Rolex was synonymous with luxury and status, and its watches were coveted by consumers around the world. Third, the company had good management. Rolex was led by a team of experienced and talented executives who had a deep understanding of the watch business.
Rolex's IPO strategy was a resounding success. The company raised £2 million in its initial public offering, and its shares opened strongly on its first day of trading. The IPO helped Rolex to expand its operations and become one of the most successful watch brands in the world.
Here are some of the key details of Rolex's IPO strategy:
* Rolex went public on the London Stock Exchange in 1919.
* The company raised £2 million in its initial public offering.
* Rolex's shares opened strongly on its first day of trading.
* The IPO helped Rolex to expand its operations and become one of the most successful watch brands in the world.
Rolex's IPO strategy is an example of how good management, a strong brand, and a strong track record of growth can lead to success.
AI presents immense opportunities for design innovation in high horology. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, watchmakers can explore new possibilities in case designs, dial patterns, and intricate complications. AI can analyze historical designs, consumer preferences, and emerging trends to generate unique and captivating watch designs that push the boundaries of creativity.
Precision is a hallmark of high-end watches, and AI can further elevate manufacturing processes. Through the integration of AI-driven robotics and automation, watchmakers can achieve unparalleled accuracy and consistency in crafting intricate components. AI can optimize production workflows, reducing errors and streamlining the manufacturing process to deliver flawless timepieces.
Complications, such as tourbillons, perpetual calendars, and moon phases, have long been a focal point of high horology. With AI, these complications can be taken to new heights. Machine learning algorithms can optimize the performance and accuracy of these complex mechanisms, ensuring precise timekeeping and intuitive functionalities that adapt to the wearer's preferences.
AI-powered algorithms can revolutionize the customer experience in high horology. Through data analysis and pattern recognition, AI can generate personalized recommendations, assisting customers in finding the perfect timepiece based on their preferences, lifestyle, and budget. Virtual try-on experiences and augmented reality can further enhance the buying journey, allowing customers to visualize the watches on their wrists before making a purchase.
AI can elevate the accuracy and maintenance of luxury watches. Advanced AI algorithms can enhance timekeeping precision, compensating for environmental factors and ensuring utmost accuracy. Additionally, AI-powered diagnostics and predictive maintenance can monitor watch performance, detecting potential issues before they arise and providing timely servicing recommendations to prolong the lifespan of the timepiece.
The influence of AI in high horology holds tremendous potential for transforming the watch industry. From design innovations to enhanced manufacturing precision, intelligent complications, personalized customer experiences, and intelligent timekeeping, AI is poised to revolutionize the world of luxury watches. As AI continues to evolve, watchmakers will have the opportunity to push boundaries, create extraordinary timepieces, and offer unparalleled experiences to watch enthusiasts.
Embracing AI-driven advancements while preserving the artistry and craftsmanship that define high horology will ensure that the industry enters a new era of innovation and excellence. The future is bright as AI and high horology converge, heralding a new chapter where tradition meets technology to shape the watch industry's timeless legacy.
a) Rolex Submariner: The Submariner stands as one of Rolex's most renowned and sought-after models. Its robust design, water resistance, and association with diving make it a favorite among adventurers and watch collectors alike. The Submariner's enduring popularity stems from its timeless aesthetics and reputation for reliability.
b) Rolex Datejust: An epitome of elegance and versatility, the Datejust has secured its place as one of Rolex's all-time best sellers. Its classic design, featuring the iconic date window, appeals to both men and women. The Datejust's timeless charm and precision have made it a go-to choice for any occasion.
c) Rolex Daytona: Designed with professional race car drivers in mind, the Daytona has become a legendary timepiece. Its sporty aesthetic, precision chronograph function, and association with motorsports have cemented its status as a coveted collectible.
a) Omega Seamaster: The Seamaster has achieved remarkable popularity, thanks in part to its association with the iconic James Bond franchise. This versatile timepiece combines elegant design with impressive performance, making it a favorite among watch enthusiasts seeking both style and substance.
b) Omega Speedmaster: Celebrated as the "Moonwatch," the Speedmaster holds an esteemed place in history as the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission. This legendary timepiece has captivated the world with its robust chronograph features, enduring design, and remarkable legacy.
c) Omega Constellation: Exuding sophistication and refined craftsmanship, the Constellation embodies Omega's commitment to luxury and elegance. This prestigious dress watch showcases exquisite design elements and impeccable precision, appealing to those seeking a timeless and distinguished timepiece.
In the eternal rivalry between Rolex and Omega, certain watch models have risen above the rest in terms of popularity and sales. The Rolex Submariner, Datejust, and Daytona, as well as the Omega Seamaster, Speedmaster, and Constellation, have captured the hearts of watch aficionados around the globe. These timepieces combine exceptional craftsmanship, enduring designs, and rich legacies that resonate with discerning collectors and enthusiasts.
As consumer preferences continue to evolve, new watch models may emerge as best sellers. However, the enduring appeal and timeless allure of these iconic models ensure that they will forever hold a special place in the horological landscape, representing the pinnacle of luxury watchmaking craftsmanship.
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Rolex's rich heritage and impeccable reputation play a significant role in their enduring success. Established in 1905, the brand has consistently maintained an unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and reliability. Rolex timepieces are synonymous with precision and durability, earning them a reputation as the watch of choice for explorers, professionals, and discerning individuals.
A key aspect of Rolex's success lies in their dedication to in-house manufacturing. Unlike many other luxury watch brands, Rolex designs, develops, and produces the majority of their watch components, including movements, cases, and bracelets. This vertical integration allows Rolex to maintain strict control over every aspect of production, ensuring exceptional quality, accuracy, and consistency across their timepieces.
Rolex's watches are renowned for their iconic design and timeless aesthetics. From the iconic Submariner to the elegant Datejust, each Rolex model exhibits a distinct and recognizable style. The brand's commitment to evolutionary rather than revolutionary design changes has allowed them to preserve the essence and appeal of their watches over the years. This approach creates a sense of timelessness, making Rolex watches coveted symbols of prestige and taste.
Rolex has continually pushed the boundaries of watchmaking through technological advancements. The brand has introduced numerous groundbreaking features and patents, such as the Oyster case, the first waterproof watch case, and the Perpetual rotor, the self-winding mechanism. These innovations not only showcase Rolex's technical prowess but also contribute to the reliability, performance, and longevity of their watches.
Rolex's strategic marketing and branding efforts have played a crucial role in their success. The brand has established itself as a symbol of achievement, luxury, and exclusivity through partnerships, sponsorships, and endorsements. Aligning with prestigious events, sports, and personalities has reinforced Rolex's association with excellence and success, further enhancing the desirability and aspirational value of their watches.
Rolex's enduring reign as the most important luxury watch brand in the world can be attributed to a combination of factors. Their rich heritage, commitment to in-house manufacturing, iconic design, technological innovations, and robust marketing strategies have propelled them to unrivaled dominance and allowed them to command premium prices.
As Rolex continues to set new standards of excellence and push the boundaries of horology, their watches remain coveted symbols of status, precision, and timeless elegance. The brand's unwavering commitment to quality and innovation ensures that Rolex will continue to captivate watch enthusiasts and retain its position as the pinnacle of luxury watchmaking for years to come.
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The Lange 1 is an epitome of innovation and aesthetic finesse. Launched in 1994, this masterpiece from A. Lange & Söhne revolutionized the watch industry with its asymmetric dial layout. The iconic off-centered hour and minute sub-dial, along with a small seconds sub-dial and a large double-window date display, creates a harmonious visual balance that is unique to the Lange 1.
Crafted with the finest materials and meticulous craftsmanship, the Lange 1 features a manually wound movement that ensures exceptional accuracy and a power reserve of up to 72 hours. The watch's stunning design, combined with its unparalleled technical precision, has made the Lange 1 a timeless favorite among watch connoisseurs.
Glashütte Original's Senator Excellence collection exemplifies the perfect blend of timeless elegance and high-performance functionality. This line of watches is equipped with the brand's in-house automatic movement, the Calibre 36, renowned for its reliability and precision.
The Senator Excellence showcases a classic design with a clean and refined dial, featuring Roman numerals, a date window, and elegant leaf-shaped hands. The watch's slim profile and comfortable fit make it an ideal choice for both formal occasions and everyday wear.
NOMOS Glashütte's Tangente collection is the epitome of minimalistic charm and Bauhaus-inspired design. These timepieces are celebrated for their clean lines, slender profiles, and straightforward dials.
The Tangente features a manual-winding movement, developed in-house by NOMOS Glashütte. With meticulous attention to detail, each Tangente watch embodies the essence of German watchmaking craftsmanship. The watch's understated elegance and versatility have made it a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking a classic and enduring timepiece.
The Lange 1 from A. Lange & Söhne, the Senator Excellence from Glashütte Original, and the Tangente from NOMOS Glashütte are three iconic German watch models that exemplify the pinnacle of horological excellence. Each timepiece represents a unique combination of innovation, elegance, and craftsmanship, reflecting the distinguished heritage of German watchmaking.
Whether you appreciate the avant-garde design of the Lange 1, the classic elegance of the Senator Excellence, or the minimalist charm of the Tangente, these watches are more than just timekeeping devices; they are masterpieces that embody the spirit of German watchmaking.
As you embark on your journey to acquire a horological masterpiece, remember that these watches are not merely accessories but artifacts of precision, passion, and tradition. So, embrace the allure of German horology and elevate your collection with one of these timeless wonders.
Knowing how the accuracy of watches is measured and which bodies are in charge of ensuring watchmaking precision will allow us to know which are the most accurate Swiss watches, and which brands have developed truly specific mechanical devices.
This week we are going to review how the accuracy of watches is measured, what criteria are taken into account and which bodies are in charge of measuring the precision of a watch.
The origin of precision measurement in watches
From the beginning of Swiss watch chain manufacture, it became essential to measure the precision of watchmaking machinery.
What the brands tried was to replicate the same mechanism over and over again, so that it always had a certain precision, over time it was achieved, giving rise to the Swiss watch industry as we know it today.
However, the precision of the watches ceased to be an exclusively useful criterion for the brand, to become a criterion used by the public when acquiring a piece. Whoever bought a high-end watch, was looking for a punctual mechanism, without delays, therefore, it was the brands themselves who began, for the first time, to certify their most finished and precise mechanisms.
However, the certifications granted by the brands themselves became a fraud in some cases. Some certificates had no basis, so it became necessary to create an independent body, capable of standardizing the precision measurement of all types of watches.
How accurate should a mechanical watch be?
This question is one of the great questions of Swiss mechanical watchmaking. How much slower or early can a mechanical watch be considered accurate? There are all kinds of opinions.
The most demanding people barely grant two seconds of delay per day, however, the conventional is to grant between 4 and 6 seconds per day.
A watch that loses 6 seconds per day, that is, one minute approximately every 10 days, is considered accurate. If it loses more than 6 seconds a day compared to the official time, it is advisable that you take it for repair to readjust its movement.
As for setting the time, it is advisable that, at a minimum, you adjust the time of your mechanical watch at least once a week.
COSC, certificates of accuracy
We said that, originally, it was the brands themselves that certified their own pieces, however, this caused fraud. In 1973 the COSC was founded, by its French acronym, Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres, that is, the official control of Swiss chronometers.
What COSC tried from the beginning was to evaluate Swiss mechanical watches, to issue independent certificates of precision.
COSC has three laboratories in Switzerland, where all the new models from the main manufacturers arrive. It is true that some brands have their own standards, usually more demanding than those of the COSC, however, all the designs of Swiss manufactures go through the COSC laboratories to obtain their certificate.
The method consists of testing the movement without a box for fifteen days. During this period, the movement works in five different positions with various temperature changes.
The COSC takes into account the daily variation, which it establishes at 6 seconds, but also takes into account the average variation, the maximum variation, the difference between the different positions and the variation by temperature. If the movement conforms to the standards, it is approved as a Swiss chronometer.
Hour measurement clamp
There are several methods to check to what extent your mechanical watch is or is not accurate. The easiest way to set your clock? There are web pages that give the exact time based on atomic clock data, if every week you compare the time of your clock with that of a web (the same weekly), you will be able to know very roughly the variations of your watch.
But if you really want to know how your watch works and what its level of accuracy is, Frédérique Constant has the perfect complement for you, it is a caliper capable of measuring the oscillations of a mechanical part, and connected to a mobile App, you It provides all the data about the progress of your watch in the most precise way.
The influence of wear on the movement of a watch
If you've ever wondered why high-end watches incorporate precious stones into their mechanism, the answer has more to do with precision than luxury.
The pieces of traditional materials suffer, little by little, a wear that causes that the precision diminishes. Therefore, a watch considered accurate, over time may cease to be so.
The jewels hardly suffer wear with friction for many years that pass, that is the reason why the mechanisms incorporate rubies and other precious stones that, in the long term, ensure their correct operation without losing precision.
The best watches from Swiss manufactures
The main Swiss manufacturers have COSC precision certification for most of their models. Some, such as Breitling or Rolex, send each of their models to precision laboratories, so that all their movements are examined and obtained the certificate, others, only send some of the movements they produce, those that they consider to be of higher quality, suitable. to pass the 6 seconds daily test.
At Pawn Shop we have the best COSC certified watches, precise chronographs that meet the basic premise of watchmaking, offering an extremely precise piece, capable of measuring times accurately for years.
If you are looking for a Swiss luxury watch and your main criteria is precision, come to the Pawn Shop and we will advise you to help you find the perfect piece.
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Vacheron Constantin
Although founded twenty years after the oldest registered watch brand in the world, Vacheron Constantin is the oldest watch manufacturer in existence with uninterrupted production. Many other classic mechanical watch manufacturers have had periods of downtime over time or have been forced to sell their brand due to the rise of less expensive quartz watches. Founded in 1755 in Geneva, Vacheron Constantin has been renowned ever since for the exceptional quality, craftsmanship and high prices of its watches.
Ferdinand Berthoud
Ferdinand Berthoud opened his workshop in Paris, back in 1753. But Berthoud was not a conventional watchmaker; he was also a scientist. He worked for the French navy and was one of the inventors behind the marine chronometer; a device used to determine the east-west position of a ship in the ocean.
The Berthoud family had been creating clocks and chronometers for more than a century, but in 1876 they suffered a tragedy; the death of the heir Charles-Auguste Berthoud, which led to the disappearance of the brand from the public eye. However, in 2015 Ferdinand Berthoud was relaunched with a new watch: the Chronomètre Ferdinand Berthoud FB1. With this watch, the company paid tribute to the lifelong work of its founder and helped to revive its namesake brand.
Jaquet Droz
Pierre Jaquet-Droz started manufacturing in 1738 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. An inventive and imaginative man, he created clocks and automatons: mechanical works of art that incorporated music and movement. His work was especially popular with the wealthy in Europe and China.
This popularity lasted until the Napoleonic Wars, in the early 19th century, which would end the brand's prosperity. It took until 2000 for the company to resurface, when it was acquired by the Swatch Group. Since then, a number of watches have been introduced, ushering in a new era for Jaquet Droz.
Favre-Leuba
For this watch company it all started with the Favre family. In 1737 Abraham Favre registered as a watchmaker in Le Locle, Switzerland. In the decades that followed, his son and grandchildren continued to run the business on their own, until Auguste Leuba, who came from a family of merchants and watchmakers, joined the company in 1815. Thereafter, the company would become known. like Favre-Leuba.
The brand's motto was to create watches ‘for those who conquer the borders’, as they did. His classic Bivouac watch was first introduced in 1962 and was the first wristwatch to measure altitude and air pressure, making it especially popular with mountaineers and pilots. While the crisis in the Swiss watch industry in the 1980s meant that the owners had to sell the brand, Favre-Leuba has been back since 2011 and is still well regarded in the sector.
Blancpain
Blancpain is considered to be the oldest registered watch brand in the world. It was founded in 1735, when Jehan-Jacques Blancpain opened the company's workshop on the top floor of his home in Villeret, Switzerland.
The brand is synonymous with tradition and innovation. One of its most famous models is the Fifty Fathoms diver's watch, first introduced in 1953. It was made at the request of the French navy, which needed a reliable watch for its underwater operations. Blancpain has seen periods of inactivity, but the brand was reborn in 1983. It is now part of the Swatch Group, and is a partner and sponsor of Lamborghini.