Mechanical watches
How mechanical watches work:
Mechanical watches use a complex system of mechanical components to measure time. The basic components of a mechanical watch include:
Mainspring: stores energy when the watch is wound.
Gear train: transfers energy from the main spring to the escape mechanism.
Escapement: releases energy from the mainspring at regular intervals, thereby regulating the movement of the watch.
Oscillator (balance wheel): oscillates back and forth at a constant frequency and regulates the running of the watch.
Drive and indicators: they transmit power to the watch hands, which display the time.
Mechanical watches can be manually wound or automatic (self-winding), which use the movement of the wrist to wind the mainspring.
Advantages of mechanical watches:
Craftsmanship: Mechanical watches are often considered works of art due to their intricate construction and craftsmanship.
Long service life: With proper maintenance, a mechanical watch can last for generations.
Aesthetics: visible mechanical movements and often transparent case backs are aesthetically attractive.
Disadvantages of mechanical watches:
Accuracy: Mechanical watches are less accurate than quartz watches. They can lose or gain a few seconds a day.
Maintenance: They require regular maintenance and servicing, which can be costly.
Price: Usually more expensive than quartz watches, especially in prestigious brands.
Quartz watches
How quartz watches work:
Quartz watches use an electronic oscillator regulated by a quartz crystal to measure time. The main components of a quartz watch include:
Batteries: It provides power for the electronic circuit and the oscillator.
Quartz crystal: The quartz crystal vibrates at a precise frequency when energized with an electric current.
Electronic oscillator: It generates regular electrical pulses based on the vibration of the quartz crystal.
Stepper motor: It converts electrical impulses into mechanical movement of the hands.
Advantages of quartz watches:
Accuracy: Quartz watches are very accurate and can lose or gain only a few seconds per month.
Low maintenance: They require minimal maintenance other than replacing the battery every few years.
Price: They are usually cheaper than mechanical watches.
Disadvantages of quartz watches:
Shorter service life: Batteries must be replaced regularly and electronic components may have a shorter life than mechanical parts.
Less prestige: Quartz watches are often considered less prestigious than mechanical watches, especially in the luxury segment.
Less aesthetic value: Many watch enthusiasts appreciate the complexity and visible mechanisms of mechanical watches, which is lacking in quartz watches.
Mechanical watches:
Suitable for lovers of traditional craftsmanship and watchmaking.
They require regular maintenance and can be more expensive.
They offer durability and an aesthetic experience.
Quartz watches:
Ideal for those looking for an accurate, reliable and low-maintenance watch.
Usually cheaper and require less frequent maintenance.
Less prestigious, but very practical for everyday wear.
Each type of watch has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them depends on the personal preferences, lifestyle and priorities of the owner.
