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There are many different types of watch movement to choose from, each with its own characteristics and history. Discover them in this guide and then choose the movement that suits you best.
Beautifully designed to embody its mechanical power, a watch movement is a demonstration of precision and innovation. Carefully assembled parts, each designed for a specific purpose, come together in a complex masterpiece as the wheels of time turn. Easily taken for granted, it’s fascinating to observe the attention to detail that enables these tiny parts to flawlessly perform an eternal function: the preservation of time.
The art of watch movement reveals its spellbinding complexity, each part supporting the others and enabling them to work in harmony beyond today’s technology. It’s no wonder that the movement of a watch continues to captivate minds throughout history.
The watch movement powers the watch’s various complications. These include chronographs, chronometers, moon-phase complications, etc.
There are two main categories of watch movements: mechanical and electronic.
Mechanical movements are the oldest type of watch movement and are powered by a mainspring. To keep time, the energy produced by winding the mainspring is gradually released to power the gears. Mechanical movements are generally less precise than electronic ones, as they require regular maintenance to keep accurate time.
The most common types of mechanical watch movements are the hand-wound mechanical movement and the self-winding mechanical movement.
A hand-wound mechanical watch must be wound by hand every day or two to keep it powered up. These watches are less precise than their automatic counterparts. Nevertheless, they are prized by collectors for their craftsmanship and traditional design.
In contrast, a mechanical self-winding watch is powered by the natural movement of your wrist. Self-winding watches wind themselves using the kinetic energy generated by the wearer’s body movements.
Automatic watches are generally more accurate than manual watches, because you can set them more precisely. However, to stay on time, you need to wear them frequently. Otherwise, you can simply wind them manually.
A self-winding watch is powered by a tiny motor called an oscillator. The oscillator is connected to a weight, called a rotor, which rotates when you move your wrist. This movement winds the main spring, providing power to the watch.
There are three main types of electronic watch movements:
Electronic quartz movements are more precise than mechanical movements. This means you can enjoy your watch without worrying about its precision.
The only thing that needs changing is the battery. This will be done every 2 or 3 years, depending on how often you wear it, or if conditions require more frequent maintenance.
If you’re looking for a watch that doesn’t require batteries, look no further than watches with solar-powered quartz movements.
This type of watch is powered by natural or artificial light captured by a solar panel on the dial, which is converted into electrical energy.
A rechargeable battery stores this energy so you can wear your watch day after day, even if you don’t expose it to the sun for several months!
The so-called “Kinetic” or Autoquartz movement is a hybrid of automatic and quartz watch movements. It was created by Seiko in 1988.
Essentially, it works by means of an oscillating weight that acts like the rotor of an automatic watch. This rotor reacts to the physical movement of the wrist and converts it into electrical current stored in a battery or capacitor.
Although it has been around for some time, kinetic movement is still relatively uncommon compared to more established watch models. However, other brands are gradually starting to incorporate this technology into their own products.
Whatever type of movement you choose, it’s important to understand the specifics of each movement. Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each type of watch movement can help you make an informed decision when choosing your next timepiece.
Whatever type of watch movement you choose, remember that it will be with you for many years, so do your research before committing to a specific type.
Looking for a timeless piece to add to your accessories collection? A piece you’ve made with your own hands? Then you’re in luck!
Our watch kits offer a first-class selection of components for a customized Swiss watch. Discover the satisfaction of creating a unique timepiece that perfectly complements your personal style.