What is the difference between a chronometer and a chronograph?A chronometer is an instrument for measuring time and is considered the most accurate and superior timekeeper, meaning the watch remains within +6 and -4 seconds per day. A chronograph is an instrument for recording time with a built-in stopwatch feature. These watches typically have two or three subdials that display the hours, minutes, and seconds.
What is the difference between an automatic movement and quartz movement?A quartz movement is powered by a battery. An automatic movement uses the movement and energy of the wearer’s wrist, automatically winding the mainspring.
What is the difference between a self-winding and a manual-winding movement?Automatic watches are powered by the self-winding movement. This means that when the wrist moves, the rotor spins and winds the watch again by tightening the mainspring. A manual-winding movement doesn’t have a rotor and needs to be wound by hand to work.
What is a cyclops lens?A Rolex invention in the 1950s, the cyclops lens magnifies the date display for easier readability.
What are the different case types on a watch? • Gold – Comes in variations of yellow and rose, and it will withstand the test of time. • Platinum – Most expensive, heavy, and highly durable. • Stainless Steel – Affordable, durable and popular amongst sport watches. • Titanium – Stronger durability with a lighter weight. • PVD/DLC Coated – Durable case, scratch-resistant, unique and sleek black color. • Bronze – Although susceptible to corrosion, it creates a beautiful patina effect over time. • Ceramic – Lightweight with a wide variety of color options.
What does power reserve mean?A power reserve on a watch helps you determine how long your watch will run before it needs to be wound again. A good power reserve is at least 48 hours.
How do I wind my manual watch?For best performance, wind your watch daily. Take your watch off your wrist to ensure there is no strain on the watch’s mechanics. Carefully pull out the crown. Wind the crown clockwise until you feel resistance. Do not continue to wind after you feel that resistance, as you could strain the mechanism. Press the crown back down.
How long does a watch battery last?Depending on the type of watch, a battery can last about two years. You will know when the battery needs to be changed when the watch doesn’t show the correct time, it’s difficult to adjust, there’s moisture or rattling in the case, or if the watch simply stops working.
How do I take care of my watch? • Keep your watch wound daily and be careful not to overwind. • Use a microfiber cloth or toothbrush to keep it clean. A little water is okay, but never use soap as it could seep into the mechanics of the watch. • When you’re not wearing your watch, ensure that you store it away from damp or extreme temperatures. • Wearing your watch regularly helps keep the watch in good condition. • Get your watch serviced to ensure everything is running as smoothly as possible.
When should I get my watch serviced?It depends how often the watch is worn and if the battery stopped working. As a rule of thumb, your watch should be serviced every four to five years. If it is worn regularly, you could wait a bit longer. A watch service will generally consist of disassembling, cleaning and replacing any damaged parts.
When is the best time to buy a watch?Now. The market is down 20%-30% off of highs, but still up overall. There is no best time or worst time; there is only now. We don’t know where the market will be.
What advice do you have for someone who is starting their watch collection?Do research on the watch and buy what you like. Work with a consultant you trust. Spend a little extra to get the one you really wanted, rather than settle.
How can I spot a fake watch?Firstly, make sure you buy from a trusted source. You can spot a fake by any unfinished edged, print of the logo, feel of the metal, scratches or improper polish. Make sure the clasp, buckle and crown work. Train your eye by researching and inspecting real watches. If you can’t tell if it’s fake or don’t trust the source, bring the watch to a corporate service center to be checked.
Why are some watches so expensive?Luxury watches are available in a limited quantity because of the cost of producing the watch itself, raw materials and precious metals used, custom machinery, and the time it takes to design complicated movements, prototypes and build custom parts. At the end of the day, you’re buying a piece of art.
