Exploring the varied movements of watches

Watches serve as both practical timekeepers and masterpieces of art and engineering. Central to each watch is its movement, a key element that influences its functionality, precision, and longevity. For enthusiasts and prospective buyers, understanding the different movements of a watch is crucial as it impacts maintenance needs and performance. This guide delves into the world of watch movements, covering manual, automatic, and quartz types, and tracing their evolution. Discover the intricacies of these mechanisms and learn how to maintain your valued timepiece.

A watch movement, or calibre, is the complex system that drives a timepiece, dictating its functions and accuracy. Movements are critical as they not only track time but also enable features like chronographs and alarms. Recognizing the movement type is vital for assessing a watch's performance and lifespan.

Mechanical movements, which include manual and automatic varieties, rely on wound springs to convert stored energy into precise timekeeping. Conversely, quartz movements use battery power to transmit electrical signals through a crystal, achieving high accuracy. This distinction affects operation, maintenance, and durability.

Mechanical movements are prized for their craftsmanship, often seen as a badge of honor among watchmakers and enthusiasts. Quartz movements are celebrated for their reliability and minimal maintenance, qualities that make them well-suited to daily wear. Mechanical watches can also be worn every day, provided they receive the appropriate care. At Longines, we offer a diverse selection of timepieces with both mechanical and electronic movements, ensuring a suitable choice for every taste and occasion.

Manual watch movements, also known as hand-wound movements, operate via a straightforward yet refined mechanism. A manual watch is powered by a mainspring wound by turning the crown. As it unwinds, energy is released to drive the gears and hands. This traditional method requires regular winding, typically every day or two, to keep the watch running smoothly.

The act of winding a manual watch fosters a personal connection between the wearer and the timepiece, allowing appreciation of its craftsmanship and mechanics. While manual movements are known for longevity and easier servicing compared to some modern alternatives, they demand regular winding, which may be inconvenient for those with hectic schedules.

Longines boasts a rich legacy of crafting exquisite manual movement watches, exemplifying precision and elegance. Notable models include the Longines Master Collection, where traditional craftsmanship meets modern design, and the Longines Heritage range, celebrating the brand's storied history. These timepieces not only highlight the beauty of manual movements but also demonstrate Longines' commitment to quality for over a century.

Automatic watch movements, or self-winding movements, represent a significant advancement in horology by utilizing the wearer’s wrist motion to generate power. These mechanisms feature a rotor that spins with wrist movement, winding the mainspring and eliminating the need for battery replacement. However, if the movement is fully discharged, a manual winding is required to reach full power reserve. This ingenious design ensures continuous operation and reflects the blend of artistry and engineering in fine watchmaking.

For regular wearers, an automatic timepiece offers a largely low-maintenance day-to-day experience; routine care (wiping the case/bracelet, avoiding shocks, and periodic water-resistance checks) plus scheduled servicing at manufacturer-recommended intervals will keep it in good order. Many enthusiasts admire the intricate mechanics and craftsmanship involved, making automatic watches both a practical and stylish choice. The self-winding system maintains power while the watch is worn; if the movement is fully discharged, restart it by winding the crown to prime the mainspring—the exact number of turns depends on the calibre (Longines models may require roughly 20 to 114 turns). Wrist movement alone may not be sufficient to restart or fully wind a stopped watch.

Longines proudly offers a captivating range of automatic watches that uphold this timeless tradition. From the refined Master Collection to the sporty HydroConquest series, each model embodies our dedication to precision and heritage. Whether you prefer a classic or contemporary style, Longines automatic watches cater to diverse preferences, ensuring each piece is a treasured companion for years to come.

Quartz watch movements are celebrated for their accuracy and dependability, thanks to quartz technology. At the core of this mechanism is a tiny quartz crystal that vibrates at a specific frequency when exposed to an electric current. This steady oscillation regulates timekeeping, allowing the watch to maintain impressive precision with minimal deviation.

One of the primary advantages of quartz movements over traditional mechanical types is their superior accuracy. While mechanical watches can be influenced by temperature and position, quartz watches typically deviate by only a few seconds per month. However, temperature can also affect certain quartz movements depending on the technology used. Additionally, quartz watches require less maintenance than their mechanical counterparts, making them an excellent choice for those seeking convenience and performance.

Longines offers an exceptional selection of quartz models that demonstrate the benefits of this technology. The Longines Conquest collection, for instance, blends elegance with high-performance quartz movements, suitable for both sporty and formal settings. Another standout is the Longines Master Collection, which combines precision and craftsmanship with quartz technology. These models not only showcase the advantages of quartz movements but also embody Longines' dedication to creating timepieces that resonate with discerning watch enthusiasts.

The history of watch movements is a captivating journey reflecting significant advancements in horology. It began in the 135th century with mechanical clocks, setting the stage for portable timekeeping. By the 17th century, pocket watches emerged, featuring intricate movements that highlighted watchmakers' artistry. The introduction of the balance spring marked a pivotal moment, enhancing accuracy.

As time progressed, key innovations transformed watch technology. The 20th century saw the invention of quartz movements, which revolutionized timekeeping with unmatched precision and reliability. This technology enabled mass production, making watches widely accessible. The late 20th century witnessed a resurgence in mechanical movements, emphasizing the artistry and tradition of watchmaking, rekindling appreciation for craftsmanship.

Longines has been instrumental in the evolution of watch movements. Founded in 1832, the brand has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation while maintaining a commitment to quality and precision. Longines pioneered chronograph movements and introduced groundbreaking features like automatic winding and advanced materials. Today, Longines remains at the forefront of horological advancements, offering a diverse array of watches that embody both heritage and modern technology.

Proper care of your watch movement is crucial for its longevity and accuracy. Each movement type—mechanical, automatic, and quartz—requires specific maintenance practices for optimal condition. For mechanical and automatic watches, regular winding, even when not worn, helps maintain lubrication within the movement. Quartz watches primarily require battery replacements but should also be kept clean and dry.

Regular servicing is vital for all movement types. A professional service done by a Longines certified watchmaker every three to five years can identify potential issues before they become significant problems. During a service, the watchmaker will clean the movement, replace worn parts, and ensure everything functions correctly. This not only enhances performance but also prolongs the life of your timepiece.

Proper storage is another essential aspect of caring for your watch. Store watches in a cool, dry place, ideally in a dedicated watch box or on a soft surface to avoid scratches. If you own an automatic watch, consider using a watch winder, which keeps the movement running when not worn, preventing lubricants from settling and ensuring your watch is always ready to wear.

Manual watches require hand-winding to build and maintain power. Automatic watches use wrist movement to maintain power in the mainspring, but if fully discharged, they require manual winding to restart and reach full power reserve.

Quartz watches are more accurate and low maintenance. Mechanical watches offer craftsmanship and traditional appeal.