When browsing a watch’s product page, have you ever noticed terms like ‘Automatic,’ experience and how much maintenance it needs. ‘Quartz,’ or ‘Solar-powered’ in the specs and wondered what they actually mean? The movement inside a watch doesn’t just determine its accuracy—it also shapes your daily experience and how much maintenance it needs.
What Are Watch Movements?
Simply put, a watch movement is the ‘heart’ of a watch. It’s what keeps the hands ticking. Different movements change how you interact with your watch: some need to be wound daily, others just need a battery, and some can keep going with just a bit of light.
The main types are:
l Mechanical (manual or automatic)
l Quartz
l Solar-powered
Once you know the basics, it’s easier to see which one suits your life.
Mechanical Watches: Classic Craftsmanship
Mechanical watches are powered entirely by gears, springs, and levers—no battery involved. Inside, a tightly wound mainspring stores energy, which is gradually released and regulated by the escapement and balance wheel. This mechanism converts stored energy into the steady movement of the hands, creating the characteristic tick-tock rhythm.
Manual winding: Manually turning the crown winds the mainspring, powering the watch. A fully wound watch like the Seagull ST3600 Manual Winding Movement will run for approximately 40 hours. You might be wondering how many turns are considered fully wound? There's no such thing as a rough estimate. A simple guide is to turn the crown until it starts to tighten and stops, indicating it's fully wound.
Automatic winding: A small rotor inside spins as you move your wrist, transferring energy to the mainspring so the watch stays wound without any extra effort. Even if I take it off for a day, it usually keeps running thanks to its power reserve.
When I wear it: I enjoy mechanical watches for their vintage feel and craftsmanship. Occasionally glancing at the watch becomes more than checking the time—it’s appreciating the tiny masterpiece on my wrist.
Recommended for: Collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the art of watchmaking and the intricate mechanics behind each tick.
Quartz watches: accurate, convenient and affordable
Quartz watches operate using a battery and a tiny quartz crystal. The battery sends an electric current through the crystal, causing it to vibrate at a precise frequency—typically 32,768 times per second. These vibrations are then converted into regular pulses that drive a small motor, moving the hands of the watch with remarkable accuracy.
Because the movement is electronically regulated, quartz watches are extremely precise and require minimal maintenance. They do not need daily winding, and time adjustments are infrequent.
Quartz watches are reliable and practical, making them ideal for everyday wear, work, or travel. Most quartz watches on the market are cheaper than mechanical watches, making them a good choice for those seeking an affordable timepiece.
Solar Watches: Eco-Friendly and Low Maintenance
Solar watches are a type of quartz watch powered by light. They use a solar cell, typically located under the dial, to convert sunlight or artificial light into electrical energy. This energy is stored in a rechargeable battery, which then powers the quartz movement to drive the hands of the watch. Unlike standard quartz watches that rely on disposable batteries, solar watches can run for months or even years without needing a battery replacement.
The key difference from regular quartz watches is the energy source: solar watches continuously recharge through light exposure, reducing the need for battery changes and making them more environmentally friendly.
While solar technology provides convenience and low maintenance, it is important to note that not all solar watches are created equal. Poor design or inadequate handling of the rechargeable battery can lead to charging issues, potentially increasing repair costs. Choosing a reliable and well-tested brand helps ensure consistent performance and longevity.
How to Choose the Right Movement for Your Lifestyle
I think no matter which movement you pick—mechanical, quartz, or solar—the key is to find a watch that’s affordable and durable. That way, it really fits into your daily life without causing stress about maintenance or accuracy.
Conclusion
Choosing the right watch movement depends on your lifestyle. Mechanical watches highlight craftsmanship, quartz watches offer precision and convenience, and solar watches provide eco-friendly, low-maintenance operation. Selecting a reliable, well-designed watch ensures accurate timekeeping and long-term satisfaction.
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