Automatic or quartz watch?

The choice of an ideal watch is not easy. Factors such as design, color, price and size play an important role. In addition, it is important what type of movement, inside the watch, you choose. In this blog we discuss the pros and cons of automatic watches and quartz watches. Of course, a watch with automatic movement is more nostalgic and an ode to watch technology. In the past there were not even quartz watches, these became really popular in the 70s when Japanese watch brands such as Seiko and Citizen presented their watches with battery and the Swiss watch brands were in crisis.

If you ask us, an automatic (or mechanical) watch is the purest form of watchmaking technology. However, a watch with battery is great for everyday use and a quartz movement is often more reliable in terms of time measurement. Advantages of automatic watches are the historical and technical aspect. In addition, looking at a watch with automatic movement (the back often has a glass window) is a wonderful spectacle. The most prestigious watch brands, mostly from Switzerland, often build automatic movements in their (more expensive) watches. The technique is quite complex so it is actually very special that this technique indicates the right time by means of a combination of wheels and a spring that is tensioned (and relaxes, making the hands "move" or "run"). An important advantage of an automatic watch is that you never have to replace the battery.

An automatic movement immediately ensures that the watch will function (excitement through the crown is also possible with many automatic watches) when the watch is in motion. A disadvantage is at the same time that when the watch does not get enough movement it comes to a standstill. The solution to overcome this problem is a watch winder. A watch winder ensures that wrist movement is simulated in a device (the watch winder), so that the watch never stops. Another disadvantage is that almost all automatic watches are not 100% accurate and in other words have a deviation to a greater or lesser extent. However, this is also the charm of an automatic watch. The vulnerability of an automatic watch must also be mentioned as a disadvantage. The technique is quite complex and when the combination of technology is disturbed the watch can be damaged; stops functioning or get a deviation in time measurement.

Benefits of quartz watches are countless. The battery does the job and when it is empty you place a new battery. The technique is relatively simple and easy to repair. In addition, quartz watches are often more resistant to external influences; shocks, water and dust. If you are very active, a quartz watch is often the better choice. Also in terms of use in water (diving and swimming) a quartz watch often offers better features. An important advantage is that quartz watches are often considerably cheaper than automatic watches. Disadvantages of quartz watches are hardly there. It might be less stylish and original, but that is a matter of taste. We would advise everyone to choose the technique, automatic or quartz, that suits him/her best. Look at the use and your personal taste. Choose quality as well, because this rule will certainly apply to watches; a cheap watches results in an expensive watch.

Should you have questions or comments about the above blog? We are happy to help you and help you.