Many may wonder what a chronograph watch is and how it works. The answer to this question is really simple – a chronograph watch is an ordinary watch that tells time, but it also has a stopwatch function which forms part of the watches movement. The movements of these watches can be mechanical, where it is self-winding or automatic. On the other hand, it can have a quartz movement that is battery powered. Chronograph watches are not only manufactured as wristwatches but can also be made as a pocket watch.

So, how does it work? The watch works just like an ordinary wristwatch, as it has a long hour hand as well as a shorter minute hand. There is also a long second hand; however, this hand only operates when the stopwatch function is activated. There is a smaller sub-dial on the face of the watch, and this gives you the seconds. This dial operates continually just as the hour and minute hands and is situated at the 3 o’clock position. There is another smaller sub-dial found at the 9 o’clock position, which operates when the stopwatch function is activated and records the number of minutes passed. Finally, another smaller sub-dial located at the 6 o’clock position, shows the hours that the stopwatch function has recorded. The more intricate and advanced chronograph watches have a fourth smaller sub-dial, which is capable of recording fractions of a second.

How do you then activate the stopwatch function of the watch? It is equipped with a small button situated at the 2 o’clock position. When this button is pushed it starts the stopwatch function and all the smaller sub-dials will begin to rotate. When it is pushed again the stopwatch function will stop and the desired time-lapse will be recorded. There is another second small button that resets all the sub-dials back to zero when pushed. The chronograph watch is also equipped with a Tachymetre scale, this is situated around the circumference or bezel of the watches dial. This scale is intended to measure speed, distance or it can even be used to measure fuel consumption.

In the next section, we are going to explain the difference between a chronograph watch, mechanical watches with quartz or self-winding movements, and digital watches.

Chronograph Watches

The chronograph watch was first invented by Louis Moinet in 1816 for the purpose of tracking the stars and planets in real-time. However, it was only in the early 20th century that watch manufactures introduced the chronograph watch to the general public. A great example of this kind of watch is the CAT OPERATOR CAMO chronograph watch. What makes this watch so special? Pilots use this watch to make very precise and quick timing calculations, and for this reason, all Apollo astronauts are equipped with a chronograph watch.

The military and navy also make use of this kind of equipment in order to track the speed and distance of missiles that have been launched. Race car drivers, as well as their pit staff, are supplied with this type of watch, as it can measure speed and distance travelled. Deep-sea divers also make use of this type of watch to track the speed and depth that they dive.

Also, it is not uncommon to see a nurse or doctor make use of this type of watch, which helps record the heartbeat and pulse rate of their patients. The ordinary man on the street can also make use of this type of watch, for use at home and cooking time in the kitchen. However, the main function that stands out is the Tachymetre, which is located around the outside of the dial. How does this function work? When using this part of the watch, you will be able to track speed as well as distance travelled. Firstly, let’s see how the speed tracking works. Imagine you are at the racetrack and want to track the speed of a car.

First, you need to know the distance between the two points you are tracking. Then simply push the start button when the car pulls off and push it again when it passes the second or endpoint. Where the long second-hand stops, is the amount of time it took to travel the distance. The reading on the Tachymetre records the speed the car travelled. What about tracking distance? The same principle is followed, but now you need to know the speed travelled. The car pulls off and must reach a chosen speed, which must then remain constant. When you reach this constant speed, push the start button. When the second-hand reaches that speed on your Tachymetre, you will discover the distance travelled. Considering purchasing one of these amazing watches? Here are two very reliable and affordable brands to choose from INGERSOLL THE APSLEY or the CAT OPERATOR CAMO.

Mechanical or Quartz Watches

Let’s first consider the mechanical watch. In this category, we find two types of watch movements, self-winding or automatic. The self-winding watch has a mainspring inside that needs to be frequently wound up manually by using the button on the side of the watch. While the automatic movement is wound up by the movement of the watch on the wearers’ wrist. One of the main disadvantages of the self-winding watch is that there is a possibility you can overwind the mechanism of the watch, which can cause irreparable damage. The self-winding watch also needs to be cleaned and serviced regularly to keep it in good working order.

Next is the quartz watch. The main advantage of buying a quartz watch is that it doesn’t have to be wound up manually. The watch is driven by a battery and therefore automatically keeps the time and can last for many years. Of course, the battery can run down and has to be changed, but that only happens very seldom. Another advantage of the quartz watch is that it is a great deal more accurate than the self-winding watch.

So, how does it work? The battery generates an electric current, which in turn goes through the quartz crystal. The current then causes the crystal to oscillate at a high frequency, which then runs a small motor inside the watch. Once the small motor starts running, it causes the hands of the watch to move.

Here are two simple reasons why you should choose a quartz watch:

• The quartz watch is a great deal cheaper than the mechanical watch and it also requires a lot less maintenance.
• The quartz watch is a great deal lighter in weight than the mechanical watch

Digital display watches

When you are looking to buy a new watch, the first thing that attracts your attention is the watch face and its appearance. There are basically only two dial displays you can choose, the Digital or Analogue display. The Analogue watch face has moving hands, which give you hours, minutes and seconds. However, the Digital display gives you the time in digital format by using numbers or other types of symbols.

The screen or watch face of a digital watch is shown in LED or LCD numbers or symbols. In order for this to work, a digital display watch is usually powered by a battery, which means it has a quartz movement. Today, the digital display watches are a great deal more popular than the analogue display. So, the question is, what attracts the attention of a watch buyer and why do many people prefer a digital display rather than an analogue display?

Here are some of the reasons:

• Many watch buyers who are opposed to buying a digital display watch argue that the battery can fail. This may be true; however, it has been proven that the digital watches battery only fails after five or even up to ten years. To overcome this problem completely, there are digital display watches on the market today that are solar-powered, which means that it can recharge itself and will never fail.
• The digital watch display is a lot easier to read than an analogue watch. This is a great advantage especially for our children as well as our senior citizens.
• The accuracy of the digital display watch is far greater than any of the other watch types.
• One of the main attractions for the scholar or employee that needs to make calculations is the calculator function a digital watch display offers.
• An added advantage for the digital display watch is the introduction of smartwatches. Here you will be able to play games, watch TV and so much more.

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Have you ever heard a watch term and thought to yourself, but what does it actually mean? With the never-ending watch terminology out there it is all too easy to get overwhelmed. If you’re a long time watch enthusiast or fresh to the market, these watch terminologies are of utmost importance. As you know there are countless brands, styles and features available on luxury watches. That’s why we thought it would be a good idea to compile a comprehensive guide that covers all sorts of watch terminology, from components to styles to movements and so much more. We made sure to cover all our basis so that you can make an informed decision the next time you are shopping for a wrist companion. Keep on reading to learn more about luxury watches and their terminology. 

If you find this article insightful, share it with a friend and tag us. Looking for a luxury timepiece crafted by master watchmakers? Shop online now and discover our wide range of luxury watches.  

In this article, we will be discussing each section separately. The sections we will be covering are: 

1. Watch Parts
2. Watch movements 
3. Watch complications
4. Different types of luxury watches
5. Different watches for different occasions

Body: 

Watch Parts simply explained 

Watches are made up out of hundreds of parts that are in charge of controlling your watches accuracy, durability and style of course. Below we will look at each component and briefly explain the purpose of each. 

Aperture

The aperture is the small window on the dial that displays information such as the date, month or year. 

Bezel

The top ring on top of a watch that encircles the dial is commonly referred to as a bezel. Certain bezels can also display additional information such as GMT. 

Bracelet

This is either a leather strap that sits around the wrist or a metal band to keep the watch in position. 

Case

The body of the watch that protects the “organs” of the watch is called the Case. The case plays an important role in preventing dust particles or water that may penetrate the watch. Cases are also designed to absorb shock when the watch falls. The quality of shock absorption will depend on the brand of the watch. 

Crown

The crown of a watch is the device (knob) on the side of the watch that lets you wind the watch (manual wind mechanical watches) It can also stop the watch when it is pulled out which would save you some valuable battery life. 

Crystal

The crystal refers to the transparent glass that covers the face of the watch and its function is to protect the dial of your watch. Modern watches come out with scratch-resistant crystal however, it would be wise to find out from the retailer whether or not the crystal is scratch resistant before you make your purchase. 

Dial

The dial is the face of the watch that sits below the crystal. 

Hands

The hands of the watch refer to the time indicators on the dial. You get three variants which indicate the hours, the minutes and even the seconds. The hands of different watches can allow the wearer of the watch to measure speed, distance and in some watches, they can measure air supply which is more commonly used in diving watches. 

Helium Escape Valve

Helium valves are found on diving watches. They release pressure in the watch when it reaches its maximum depth. Ordinary watches do not have this function, although they are designed to withstand certain amounts of pressure underwater. This too will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. 

Lugs

The lugs are the slim metal bars that connect the case to the strap of the watch. 

Movement

The movement refers to the movement that powers the watch and drives all of the timekeeping functions. It is also known as the calibre. 

Pusher

This is the button on the side of the watch that activates a complication such as a chronograph watch. 

Sub-dial

The sub-dial is a smaller dial than the main one. It provides the wearer with additional information such as in the case of a chronograph’s recorded time. 

The different types of movements 

There are three types of movements in luxury watches, namely: 

Manual

A manual movement requires regular winding of the watch’s crown that provides the power behind the movement of dials and sub-dials. 

Automatic

Automatic watches are powered by mechanical movements that stem from the natural motion of the wearer’s wrist. They are also known as self-winding watches. Whenever the wearer decides to take it off, it will stop the movement after a while of inactivity. 

Watch World has a wide range of automatic movement watches such as the incredible Ingersoll Apsley. It incorporates an automatic movement and is designed to showcase a postmodern timepiece that is extremely accurate and not to mention Good Looking. 

Quartz

Quartz movements refer to a battery-operated movement that does not require the wearer to wind it up. Quartz powered watches are typically less expensive than those of manual and automatic watches. Shop our wide range of quartz movement watches online that is as good looking as they are functional. 

What are watch complications and what are the different types?

When we speak about watch complications we are not referring to any problems that the watch might have. This term simply refers to the function of the watch other than timekeeping that indicates the hours, minutes or seconds. Below is a list of the most popular complications and their functions. 

Annual Calendar 

It displays the date and month but does not account for leap years. 

Chronograph

The chronograph complication describes the time functionality of a watch. It is commonly referred to as a stopwatch which allows the wearer to measure elapsed periods. 

Date Window

The date window is commonly found as an aperture at 3 O’clock or 6 O’clock. Some date windows have a magnifying ‘drop’ on the crystal also called cyclops in watch jargon. 

Dual time

This displays local time zones and an additional time zone. 

Minute repeater 

A minute repeater chimes the time when activated. They usually have different sounds for minutes, hours and quarter-hours. 

Moon phase

A moon phase display indicates the phases of the moon

Perpetual calendar

A perpetual calendar displays the day, date and month. It is important to note that a perpetual calendar does consider the leap year.

Power reserve 

This function indicates the amount of power left before it needs to be wound. 

Tachymeter

This function in watches measures the speed over fixed distances and is commonly found on the watches of F1 drivers or pilots.  

What are the different types of luxury watches available to me?

Luxury watches are typically broken down in four specific categories, separated with different designs and features. 

Dress watches

Dress watches are elegant and sophisticated with minimalistic streamlined profiles. They are the perfect companion for the office, evening wear or any other sophisticated attire. 

Sport watch

Sports watches get their name from the robust and sturdy construction. These timepieces can endure rugged conditions whilst maintaining accurate timekeeping. 

Pilot watch

Pilot watches were originally designed for aviators. These watches typically have larger cases and easy-to-read dials. They provide additional timekeeping complications such as chronographs for measuring elapsed periods. 

Diving watch

Diving watches present themselves as the ultimate timekeepers for divers. They are constructed with sturdy cases that are designed to withstand the depths of the sea. Diving watches are also typically constructed with complications that ultimately helps divers manage their oxygen supply underwater. 

Watches for everyone

At Watch World we pride ourselves in providing our clients with only the best. Our watch offering is vast and covers all of the basis. We also only stock watches that were created by master craftsmen and horologists alike. Whether you are looking at a new timepiece for the office or one that you can wear on casual occasions. We’ve got one for every occasion.  

Watch World has a couple of watches that might strike some inspiration this year, check out our online promotions for more watches that will have you looking sharper than ever and keep you on time every time. 

Conclusion: 

You now have some insight into common watch terminology as well as the functions each one has. So the next time you are looking at buying a timepiece that you love, you can make an informed decision straight away. Choosing a watch for yourself is an exciting journey and with Watch World as your right-hand man, you can never make the wrong decision. The best thing about investing in a proper watch for yourself is that one day your collector’s legacy timepiece can be handed down as an heirloom from one generation to the next. We also now offer you a watch repair service so if your watch is currently sitting at home and needs fixing, bring it in so our team of professional horologists can inspect it for you and get it on your wrist again. You can book a watch repair by clicking here or you can also get in touch with us to discuss your watch needs. 

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The Fashion Watch Overview

Nobody to date has found a single definition for fashion watches. There are a number of titles out there namely fashion watch, dress watch or formal watch. However, after all is said and done, many agree on one thing – the main emphasis of a fashion watch is in the design and its appearance.

The focus is placed solely on the brand name and very little attention is given to the intricate workings of the watches movements. Therefore, many fashion watches are supplied with a cheaper quartz movement.

Fashion watches are usually manufactured by companies that supply clothing and all types of accessories. This means that the company doesn’t use the sale of watches as their main source of income. Fashion watches are made to fit in with the latest styles of clothing and jewellery. When purchasing a fashion watch, a buyer is solely interested in the way it looks rather than in its function.

This appears to be the only logical reason why anyone would pay such a lot of money for a basic watch.

Why would somebody want to buy a fashion watch? You may have received an invitation to a formal lunch or a business event and you need to buy a new outfit for the occasion. Yet, you feel there is something missing. A beautiful fashion watch is just the thing you need to complete your look. Rest assured, there is a fashion watch out there for you, one that fits any fashion style.

What if you have to attend multiple social functions during the year, does this mean you have to have a new watch each time? No, it’s certainly not necessary, as you can use the same fashion watch for a number of different occasions.

All you need to do is have a couple of different watch straps available. Simply change the strap you have, and you instantly create a completely new look, one that suits your fashion style for a specific event.

Your style is reflected in your clothing and in the accessories you wear. So, choosing a stylish watch is important in creating the look you want. Today, you are sure to find a watch that will suit every occasion, from formal business events to casual outings.

Men and women select watches that will match their outfit but will also for how it looks on their wrist, and how it makes them feel.

Most important of all, the right watch and outfit make a statement, it reveals your style and defines who you are. You will soon realise when you have to choose the right watch for a special occasion, that the combinations available appear to be endless. You will have to choose between different colours, styles and materials.

Choosing the perfect fashion watch

The question is how do you choose the correct watch for your special event? Here are some guidelines to help you make the right choice.Below are some characteristics of Fashion Watches, which is designed to suit most styles:

• Choose a slimmer profile in order to be able to fit more comfortably under your shirt cuff.
• A watch case usually not larger than 40mm or a maximum of 46 mm.
• Most fashion watches have leather straps, but there is nothing wrong with a stainless steel strap.
• Your metal type, it can be made from yellow, white or rose gold, stainless steel or even platinum.
• Try to choose a watch that matches your selected outfit and make sure it doesn’t draw too much attention.
• The face or dial of a fashion watch is usually very simple, with an analogue display having an hour, minute and second hand. However, there are also many great fashion watches that have a digital display, which would look great with your outfit.

Apart from these guidelines above for fashion watches, a Fine Watch or Chronograph Watch can also be an acceptable choice to wear to a formal event.

What to wear

Let us now consider what type of watch you would choose for formal business or corporate functions. These types of events require style and a professional look. You may want to consider a watch that has the following characteristics:

• It needs to have a gold or stainless-steel metal case with a leather or stainless-steel strap.
• A black or brown watch dial with simple markers or roman numerals would be perfect. As it is a fashion watch, the movement can be either mechanical or quartz

The CAT AG brand watch is ideal for all types of events, and it comes at a very affordable price. This particular watch has hour, minute and second hands. The watch comes with simple markers that are gold coloured for the 15, 30, 45- and 60-minute divisions, and silver coloured for the remaining major minute indicators. Provision has also been made on the watch face for a small aperture that shows the date in digital format. The watch also has a black/camel, or silver coloured stainless-steel case, which is 46 mm in diameter. The face or dial has the same colour feature.

The display of this fashion watch is analogue, which is what is required for a formal event. As these types of watches are about style and appearance, this watch is equipped with a quartz movement. The watch is supplied with dark brown smooth leather or stainless-steel straps, in order to better compliment the style of your outfit.

Another feature of this watch, which is often overlooked or not even considered, is that it is waterproof to a depth of 100m. When buying a fashion watch, this type of feature is very seldom considered, as no one is going to go deep-sea diving with their Fashion Watch strapped to their wrist. However, there is a strong possibility that while out at your formal function, you may be caught in a sudden downpour. This waterproof feature will give you peace of mind in this situation, ensuring that your watch will in no way be damaged.

What type of watch would you look for if you had a casual weekend function to attend? In this situation, it is not necessary for you to make a boldfaced statement. You need a softer approach. Look no further than the CAT TWIST UP fashion watch, which will prove perfect for informal occasions. The watch is also available at a very affordable price.

This particular watch has an analogue format. Provision has also been made on the watches face or dial for a small aperture that shows the date in digital format. The watch body is stainless steel and is coloured black or silver. The body is 46 mm in diameter and is supplied with a quartz movement. The watch strap is made of nylon and comes in 3 stylish colours of yellow and grey, blue and grey as well as black and grey, to match your outfit perfectly. There is also a watch that has a stainless-steel strap if this suits you better. The watch is also waterproof to a depth of 100m.

Maybe over the weekend, you have an invitation to enjoy a night out with your friends. What watch would be suitable for this occasion? A night out to enjoy with lots of fun and laughter, so the watch you choose must be able to suit the occasion, making you feel free and happy. There is no doubt in my mind that the CAT GROOVY watch would be perfect for this occasion. This particular watch has an analogue format.

The body of the watch is made from a very resilient polycarbonate material and is black in colour. The body is 44.5 mm in diameter and supplied with a quartz movement. The face or dial of the watch is yellow with black figures or black with yellow figures, there is also a watch with a green face and orange figures. The watch strap is made of silicone and comes in black, green or yellow to match your outfit perfectly. The watch is also waterproof to a depth of 100m.

World-class watches

A good quality watch is seen by many as a luxury item, but this is not true. A reliable watch is a necessity and forms an essential part of your lifestyle as well as your outfit, and can be worn to any event whether it is formal or casual. Now, the question is, where can I buy the best fashion watch? Where can I purchase a watch that would suit my lifestyle and outfit for any particular occasion? The answer is simple, just go to the Watch World website.

Here you will be certain to find, in our vast selection of watches, a watch that will suit your personal needs. Watch World sells world-class, top quality watches that can only be bought online. The website is regularly and professionally updated, ensuring you always find the latest styles. Another important fact is that at Watch World we have our own service division, which will keep your watch in top condition.

Make sure to browse through our vast selection of watches, which incorporates three key international brands. Ingersoll has been producing top quality procession watches since 1892, and since 2016 have offered a lifetime warranty on their products. This is one of the brands that deserve your attention, especially in the line of their fashion watches. The CAT Watch series has proven to the world that they are able to provide reliability, which is not limited to their outdoor equipment. They seem to have been successful in building the same quality into their CAT watches. Millner Watches can boast that their watches are classed amongst the 15 best-selling watches in their price category. Since Millner also sells a large selection of sunglasses and jewellery, they are an ideal fashion watch brand. You are sure to find a fashion watch that suits your lifestyle and taste.

Great quality isn’t the only thing you can expect from Watch World, we provide our clients with the best in customer care as well. So, sign up to Watch World now and keep up to date with news, great promotions and new releases. Find the perfect fashion watch style for you!

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