The term "movement" in the watchmaking world refers to the intricate system of parts within a watch that drives its function, often called the watch’s caliber. This mechanism is the heart of the timepiece, responsible for keeping accurate time and moving the hands across the dial.
Types of Watch Movements
There are three primary types of watch movements you should be familiar with when exploring timepieces: quartz, manual, and automatic. We’ll begin with quartz movements, as they are the most common starting point for those new to collecting watches.
Quartz Movements
A quartz movement is powered by a battery, which sends an electric current through a quartz crystal. This causes the crystal to oscillate, and the resulting vibrations are translated into energy that moves the hands of the watch. Quartz movements are often known for their precision, ticking once per second. While they’re most commonly associated with accessible brands, quartz movements have been utilized by luxury watchmakers as well. At Polemistis, we offer finely crafted watches featuring quartz movements for those who value both accuracy and practicality.
Mechanical Movements
For those seeking a more intricate and traditional approach, mechanical movements—whether manual or automatic—are the hallmark of high-end timepieces. In a mechanical movement, winding the crown creates tension in the mainspring, which slowly releases energy through a series of gears, keeping the watch ticking smoothly. Unlike quartz, mechanical movements provide a continuous, sweeping motion of the second hand, a detail that watch enthusiasts deeply appreciate.
Manual vs. Automatic Movements
Mechanical movements are divided into two categories: manual and automatic. Manual movements require the wearer to wind the watch by hand regularly, while automatic movements harness the motion of the wearer’s wrist to wind themselves, thanks to a weighted rotor inside the movement. At Polemistis, we provide both options, catering to those who enjoy the ritual of winding their watch, as well as those who prefer the convenience of automatic winding.
Each movement type has its own set of advantages. Quartz movements offer precision and affordability, manual movements bring a sense of tradition, and automatic movements strike a balance between complexity and ease. At Polemistis Watch Company, we proudly offer all three, allowing our customers to choose the movement that best aligns with their preferences and lifestyle.
