Quartz Watch Movement versus Mechanical Watch Movement
Watches are often named as men’s jewelry and are sold on the bases of exterior style. However, a real watch enthusiast always pays attention to the inside mechanism of a watch. This is the reason why watch movements matter when it comes to buying a timepiece. Whether you are in a retail store or buying a quality watch from the best online watch store, you need to know about its movement.
What is the Movement of a Watch?
For those who don’t know about watch movements, this is the heart of a timepiece. Watch movements refer to the mechanisms that push the hands on a watch dial. This mechanism or movement also powers other functions on your watch, such as dual time zone, chronograph or a calendar.
Major Watch Movements
There are three major watch movements: Quartz, mechanical and Automatic. These movements are the reason what makes a brand or a timepiece tick. Each brand is based on a movement and represents an entirely different mechanism. For example, the best Seiko watches are based on the mechanical movement which makes them special.
Here, we have discussed the two major watch movements: Quartz and Mechanical. Also, we have elaborated on how each movement works and what are its benefits.
A) Mechanical Movement
As the name represents itself, this is a movement based on the mechanics of watch parts. A spring-driven mechanism measures the passage of time on watches with mechanical movement. The spring is wound periodically and also known as the mainspring.
How Mechanical Watches Work
A mechanical watch uses the mechanical energy of the wound spring to power its parts. The energy from the mainspring is passed through many small gears and springs and reaches the watch hands. Here are some major advantages of mechanical timepieces that make them stand out.
1) Aesthetics
Mechanical watches are more aesthetic in appearance and possess a clear sapphire casing on the back. This casing also offers a fascinating view of oscillations and rotations of its parts.
2) Durability
A well-built mechanical timepiece can last a lifetime without needing any repair.
3) Batteries
A well-built mechanical timepiece can last a lifetime without needing any repair.
3) Batteries
These watches run on mechanical power, so you don’t have to worry about power. It frees the owner from worrying about battery replacement and slow movement of watch hands.
B) Quartz Movement
Quartz movement was first introduced by the Japanese watchmakers and Seiko was the first brand to release quartz watches. Since then, a number of companies have released their own brands based on the quartz movement.
How Quartz Watches Work
Unlike mechanical timepieces, quartz watches run on a battery that drives electrical signals through quartz crystal. You may be wondering why quartz and why not any other element, right?
Well, the quartz crystal vibrates 32768/sec and has a precise frequency that is measured by the watch circuit. This frequency is then converted into a single pulse/sec which then moves the watch hands. Here are some major advantages of quartz timepieces that make them stand out.
1) Accurate Time
As compared to mechanical, a quartz mechanism shows time with superior accuracy and barely deviates from the exact time.
As compared to mechanical, a quartz mechanism shows time with superior accuracy and barely deviates from the exact time.
2) Durability
Quartz watches have fewer moving components than mechanical timepieces and hence don’t require frequent repairing. You don’t have to check out its parts for annual repair.
3) Less Expensive
Mechanical watches require craftsmanship and need more watchmaking hours as compared to quartz timepieces. Less labour and time means fewer efforts which make quartz watches cheaper and less expensive.
Bottom Line
Both mechanical and quartz movements represent a unique style that matches a different lifestyle. Each movement has its own benefits and comes with distinctive traits. You can pick any movement depending on your budget and style, and it’ll complement your attire.
