Watch Procurement and Selection: Tips and Tricks
The craftsmanship of watches has reached new heights, with a variety of materials and intricate designs becomin
Watch Procurement and Selection: Tips and Tricks
The craftsmanship of watches has reached new heights, with a variety of materials and intricate designs becoming more common. When it comes to quartz movements, aside from the quality of the chip and the welding process, there’s little difference between them. Globally, there are two widely recognized movements: ETA and Miyota; neither is particularly costly to produce.
Mechanical movements, however, demand higher precision in assembly and material quality. The jewel bearing sets used in these movements are crucial for accuracy, significantly affecting a mechanical watch’s timekeeping abilities.
Material quality is key, especially when considering stainless steel types. Renowned brands usually opt for genuine 316L or 314L stainless steel, unlike many imitations that use alloy-coated steel, which may look similar but wear down over time.
The hands of a watch are another aspect where quality varies; brand-name watches typically feature silver hands. While pure gold hands are rare and usually indicate gold-plated silver, the material of the hands is another factor that can influence timekeeping precision.
Water resistance technology and materials vary widely, too. Although water resistance testing machines have improved, the sealing effectiveness of the crown still has room for enhancement.
Lastly, the quality of the hour markers matters less, as long as they are clear and neatly applied.
These insights were gleaned from an experienced source at a renowned watch manufacturer. Sharing this knowledge in hopes it aids in your watch procurement and selection journey.
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