Mastering Speed: Using a Tachymeter on a Watch
Introduction
Ever wondered how to use the tachymeter scale engrave
Mastering Speed: Using a Tachymeter on a Watch
Introduction
Ever wondered how to use the tachymeter scale engraved on your watch’s bezel? This feature is not just for show—it’s a practical tool for measuring speed based on travel time or distance.
What is a Tachymeter?
A tachymeter is a scale on a watch used to calculate speed in kilometers per hour (km/h). It’s typically found on the outer rim of the watch face, marked with decreasing numbers such as 500, 400, 350, indicating the speed.
How to Use a Tachymeter
To measure speed using a tachymeter, start the stopwatch feature of your watch as you pass a known distance marker. Stop the watch after covering 1 kilometer. The second hand’s position on the tachymeter scale shows your average speed for that distance. For instance, if the second hand points at 60 after 1 kilometer, your speed was 60 km/h.
Calculating Tachymeter Scale Positions
The numbers on the tachymeter scale are derived from a simple calculation: the time (in seconds) to travel 1 kilometer at a certain speed. For example, at 500 km/h, 1 kilometer takes 3600 seconds divided by 500, equaling 7.2 seconds. Therefore, the “500” mark is placed at the 7.2-second position on the watch face.
Limitations
The tachymeter is most effective for speeds above 60 km/h. For lower speeds, the scale may not provide direct readings, unless additional markings are included for slower speeds.
Conclusion
The tachymeter is a valuable tool for anyone interested in measuring speed with precision. By understanding how to interpret the scale, you can unlock the full potential of this sophisticated watch feature, turning an ordinary timepiece into an instrument of measurement.
Explore the world of watches and speed measurement with the versatile tachymeter, a testament to watchmaking innovation.
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