Watches have been a symbol of timekeeping and style for centuries. Behind their elegant exteriors lies a fascinating world of mechanisms and movements that make them tick. In this blog post, we'll delve into the different types of watch movements and explore what sets them apart.

 

How Watches Work

 

The Heart of a Watch: Watch Movements

At the core of every watch is its movement, the intricate mechanism responsible for measuring and displaying time. There are several types of watch movements, each with its own unique characteristics and mechanisms. Let's explore the main types:

1. Mechanical Movements

Manual (Hand-Wound) Movements

Manual watches require an intimate relationship with their wearers. To keep these timepieces running, you need to regularly wind the crown. When you turn the crown, it winds a mainspring, storing energy. As the mainspring unwinds, it powers gears and an escapement, which regulates the release of energy to move the hands. Manual movements are renowned for their craftsmanship and heritage.

Automatic (Self-Winding) Movements

Automatic watches, often called "self-winding," offer a more convenient alternative to manual watches. They feature a rotor that moves with the motion of your wrist, winding the mainspring automatically. As long as you wear them regularly, automatic watches don't require daily winding. However, if left unworn, they may need manual winding or a watch winder to keep running. These movements are celebrated for their mechanical intricacy.

2. Quartz Movements

Quartz watches dominate the modern watch market, known for their precision, affordability, and low maintenance.

Battery-Powered Quartz Movements

The heart of a quartz watch is a battery. It sends an electrical current through a quartz crystal, causing it to vibrate at a specific frequency (usually 32,768 Hz), which is incredibly accurate. An electronic circuit counts these vibrations to measure time. Quartz watches are known for their exceptional precision.

Solar-Powered Quartz Movements

Solar-powered quartz watches utilize both natural and artificial light sources. They are equipped with a solar cell that captures and stores energy, powering the quartz movement. These watches often come with rechargeable batteries, making them highly sustainable and eliminating the need for a battery replacement.

Kinetic Movements

Kinetic watches combine elements of both mechanical and quartz movements. They feature a rotor that charges a rechargeable battery, which, in turn, powers the quartz movement. Kinetic watches offer accuracy and the convenience of not needing frequent battery replacements.

3. Digital Movements

Digital watches utilize electronic components like LED or LCD displays to numerically display time. They are typically powered by batteries and are known for their accuracy and additional digital features like alarms, timers, and backlighting.

Discover an amazing watches selection in Knoxville, and Maryville, TN

Since 1983, Lamon Jewelers has been a family owned business that prioritizes customer experience and satisfaction. We’ve carefully curated an atmosphere that feels as warm and welcoming as home. Our Hometown Jewelry store is filled with stunning jewelry for every occasion, and our team of experts is always ready to help.

We are a down-to-earth retailer that values honesty and respect for all clients. always jumps at the opportunity to provide a 5 star service. Our team is prepared to help you find the jewelry of your dreams to surprise someone special!

At Lamon Jewelers, you can also sell your diamonds or other jewelry, get your beloved piece repaired, and you can have your fashion jewelry custom-made especially for you! Pay us a visit at 11237 Parkside Drive in Knoxville, or 715 Watkins Road in Maryville. It’s our pleasure to be a part of your special moment!