WATCH TERMS TO KNOW

Understanding the Parts of a Timepiece

For decades, watches have been considered the ultimate, classy addition for both men and women. Luxury timepieces carry on this tradition by using state-of-the-art pieces that ensure that they will be ticking for years to come. Learn the parts of the timepieces to deepen your understanding of what makes up these heirloom pieces.

CHARACTERISTICS OF WATCHES

Timepieces are more than an accessory; they are a functional investment composed of beautiful materials. Most high-end brands employ expert horologists in Swiss facilities to craft cutting-edge timepieces that double as wearable art pieces. This level of quality can be seen as well-made watches require less maintenance with most only needing a tune-up every five years. Luxury timepieces are well-loved and respected by those that have an eye for elegance and class.

Watch Body

Dial: Often referred to as the face of the watch. It is where the time-markers and hands are placed. Designers typically include their unique style on the dial through the use of color, gemstones, or negative space.

Case: Protects the dial and the reverse side is called the case back. This is removable so that watchmakers can access the inner parts of the watch to do repairs.

Crown: The small knob that is located on the side of the watch case. This is where the time and date can be set. For non-automatic watches, it is where it can be wound.

Crystal: Protecting the watch face, it is made from either synthetic sapphire, acrylic, or glass. Synthetic sapphire is the most expensive to produce; however, it is more scratch-resistant than other materials.

Bezel: Around the crystal is the bezel, a ring of metal or ceramic that contains the scale of measurement for the time or is simply used for decorative purposes.

Gasket: A rubber ring that prevents water and debris from entering the watch face, case, and case back. The gasket should be checked every few years to ensure that it remains air-tight.

Watch Movements

Movement: This is what keeps the watch ticking. The power source can either be derived manually through wounding or from quartz, also known as battery-powered.

Caliber: This is similar to movement. The difference being that it denotes the watches from their architecture, origin, reference, and maker.

Manual Winding: This refers to a watch that needs to be wound every day to continue functioning. The crown is attached to a spring, which ensures that the internal mechanisms inside the timepiece keep moving when wound tight enough. Manually wound watches typically last 36-48 hours before they stop telling time.

Automatic: Automatic watches are powered by the motions of the wrist, making them the most popular make for watches.

Quartz: Battery-powered watches. They can either have the traditional clock face with hands or be digital. They are considered the most accurate of timepieces.

Why shop for watches at Morgan Jewelers?

Morgan Jewelers have helped watch connoisseurs find their next addition to their collection for more than a hundred years. Whether it is a gift for yourself or someone else, our expert staff is there to guide you through the process and provide recommendations based on your lifestyle and budget. Find a store near you to see the luxury that is waiting for you.