I remember myself when I first stepped into the watch universe. I was naively thinking that the watch construction was not a big deal. Different types of stripes and bracelets, some variations of the dial colors, and voila: I thought I was a true connoisseur of horological science.
As a matter of fact, the watch world is a little bit more complex than just 2-3 components. And if you are a watch enthusiast, take some minutes to acknowledge some of the basic terms. These will help you have a better understanding of the horological realm. In the end, you won’t even observe how you turn into a watch expert.
Regardless of the type of timepiece you are searching for, be it genuine or a replica version, the terminology is critical to make the difference between watches. Moreover, you will be delighted to talk professionally with a replica watch dealer who will admire your high-level future in the horological field. Let’s launch into the topic, shall we?
#1 Automatic
This term refers to the watch mechanism of functioning. Basically, automatic timepieces are mechanical accessories that don’t need to be winded whenever they are on the wrist. The whole secret consists in the movement of your wrist. The arm movement is sufficient to boost the movement of the oscillating weight within the watch, which turns into energy. As a general rule, you have to wear your automatic replica watch daily or on a regular basis in order to keep them powered.
#2 Quartz
In contrast to the previous mechanism, the Quartz system involves battery powering. Generally speaking, this segment of replica watches provides a higher degree of reliability and accuracy. The battery generates electric signals that move the quartz crystal. As a result, the crystal starts to vibrate at a certain rate. Quartz movement refers to an uncluttered internal construction. Therefore, replica watches involving such a type of movement are pretty affordable in price. Despite the debate over the quartz durability among watch enthusiasts, the mechanism has historically proven to work decently and loyal.
#3 Frequency
The watch frequency refers to the speed with which a timepiece ticks. There are two measurement versions: vibration per hour and hertz. The process that controls the watch frequency is the oscillation of the balance wheel. As a general rule, this oscillation takes place at a specific rate which is 1 oscillation per fraction of a second. Traditionally, the baseline of modern mechanical timepiece frequency is 28,000 VpH or 4 Hz.
#4 Complications
The basic function of a timepiece is to indicate the hour, minutes, and seconds. Every other feature that adds complexity to a timepiece is known as Complication. As a general rule, watch brands can design timepieces starting with only one complication and ending up with up to 53 (or more). Usually, the amount of complications speaks about the brand’s talent and craftsmanship. To name a few of them, these include but are not limited to Chronograph, Moonphase indicator, and Calendar.
#5 Chronograph
A chronograph timepiece refers to a watch that includes a stopwatch function. A distinctive feature of such watches is the set of pushers usually placed near the watch crown. By pushing them, these have the role to count a certain period of time, until you stop the function. Such a complication is compatible with both quartz and mechanical timepieces.
#6 Perpetual Calendar
As the name suggests, a Perpetual Calendar timepiece permits you to monitor the day, the date, and the month. Depending on the complexity of the perpetual calendar, this can also display the leap year. Such a function requires specific knowledge of the watchmaking process. Therefore, few luxury brands are able to propose such a complication featuring the leap year calculation.
#7 Crystal
This element is the less observable, yet the most protective compound. The crystal refers to the defensive coating of the dial and has the role to prevent the watch from potential damage. Depending on the quality, the crystal can be produced from glass to sapphire. Undoubtedly, sapphire crystal is the most precious one in terms of price and quality. Luxury brands usually opt for this type of crystal and replica manufacturers can also take pride in great quality.
#8 Tourbillon
This term refers to the precision aspect of a timepiece. The first mentions of this term appeared concomitantly with the rise of pocket watches. Nowadays, the Tourbillon complication is a “partner” of the most precise wristwatches. In simple terms, the tourbillon has the role to counteract gravity’s negative impact, which results in more accurate timekeeping. Similar to the perpetual calendar, the tourbillon complication involves professional craftsmanship and artistry. Resultantly, this feature is specific for luxury brands only and is mostly met in expensive timepieces.
#9 Escapement
This term refers to the most essential compound of a mechanical watch. This umbrella term implies a complex process that leads to the accurate maintenance of the watch’s “heartbeat”. In other words, the escapement has the primary function to provide impulses. These impulses drive the oscillation of the balance wheel. Further on, the oscillation generates the movement of the watch’s second hand. Resultantly, when you hear that specifically pleasant ticking sound of your replica watch, know that it’s the result of the escapement mechanism.
#10 Bezel
This term refers to the surrounding component of the dial. For most watches, the bezel is a decorative compound. For others, it carries a specific function. Some of the bezels are designed to measure speed or distance, depending on the watch type. You can alternatively dive into the beauty of watch bezels in our previous articles.
#11 Balance Spring
In simplistic terms, the balance spring is like a watch pendulum. Its main role is to regulate the time rhythm by controlling the oscillation rate. This component does not work on its own; it is always attached to the balance wheel. In different watch descriptions, you might come across the term “hairspring” which is, in fact, the synonym for the balance spring.
#12 Aperture
As a matter of fact, the aperture refers to a tiny opening on the watch dial that comprises various complications. You can see through the aperture the day, date, and moon phase of other indicators of a complicated timepiece. Using this term in your discussions is a sign of high education in Haute Horology.
#13 Dive watch
Generally speaking, this term refers to a specific type of watch, and there are a lot of types, in fact. We think it’s important to know its specifics since dive watches are the most frequently-demanded timepieces nowadays. Dive watches are synonymous with high-end waterproof features. This means that this segment of watches can hold out against extreme underwater pressure.
Depending on the brand and model, dive watches differ in their water resistance potential. Some can provide 300 meters of water resistance, while others can achieve even 1000 meters of depth. However, be sure that the replica dive watch you intend to buy has warranties over its water resistance potential. Talk in detail to your replica watch dealer to make sure that the watch is tested for water resistance.
Final remarks
Dear reader! There are far to be the only terms that make a great replica watch. However, these are enough to turn you into a true connoisseur of the watch universe. These definitions helped me recognize the differences between different types of watches and appreciate their key role in the magnificent construction of a watch. Truly hope they will help yours well.