Understanding Watch Terms
Comprehensive Watch Industry Terminology
Explore key watchmaking terms, from case materials to custom manufacturing processes. Learn the essential language of the industry to make informed decisions.
Understanding the terminology of the watch industry is crucial for making informed decisions, especially when it comes to custom watch manufacturing. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive list of terms that are commonly used in the industry, from materials to movements. Whether you’re a brand looking to create your own watch or someone new to the industry, this glossary will guide you through the essential language of watchmaking.
General Watch Terms
- Caliber – Refers to the specific model or design of a movement.
- Skeleton Watch – A watch where the movement is visible through the dial or case back.
- Quartz Movement – A movement powered by a battery, known for precision.
- Mechanical Movement – A movement powered by a mainspring that needs manual winding or automatic winding.
- Tourbillon – A high-end watch complication designed to improve accuracy.
- Power Reserve – How long a mechanical watch can run after being fully wound.
- Balance Wheel – The part of the movement that oscillates to keep time.
- Escapement – The mechanism that controls the release of the gear train’s energy in regular intervals.
- Frequency (Hz) – Refers to the vibrations per second of the balance wheel.
- Jewels – Synthetic gemstones in the movement that reduce friction.
- Analog Watch – A watch with a traditional face featuring hands to indicate the time, as opposed to digital watches.
- Digital Watch – A watch that displays the time digitally, typically using LCD or LED screens.
- Smartwatch – A watch with advanced functionalities beyond timekeeping, such as fitness tracking, notifications, and mobile apps.
- Chronometer – A high-precision timepiece that has passed rigorous testing for accuracy by an official organization like COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres).
- Dual Time – A watch function that allows tracking time in two different time zones simultaneously, typically with a second hour hand or subdial.
- Big Date – A date display that uses larger numerals for easier reading, often using two separate discs for the tens and units.
- End-of-Life Indicator (EOL) – A feature found in quartz watches that alerts the wearer when the battery is running low, often by causing the second hand to jump in four-second intervals.
- Horology – The study and art of timekeeping, encompassing the design, production, and maintenance of timepieces.
- Haute Horlogerie – Refers to “high watchmaking,” a term used for luxurious, complicated, and finely crafted timepieces often produced by prestigious brands.
- Lume – A luminous material applied to the hands and indices of a watch to make them glow in low-light conditions.
- ISO Certification – Specific standards that certain watches, like dive watches, must meet to be officially certified, such as ISO 6425 for diver’s watches.
- Limited Edition – A watch that is produced in a small, pre-determined quantity, making it rarer and often more desirable to collectors.
- Moonphase – A complication that shows the current phase of the moon on the dial.
- Military Time – A 24-hour time format used in military and aviation contexts. Some watches feature this as an additional time scale.
- Screw-Down Crown – A crown that screws into the case for better water resistance, commonly found on dive watches.
- Antimagnetic – A watch that is resistant to magnetic fields, which can otherwise interfere with the movement’s accuracy.
- Dive Watch – A watch designed specifically for underwater use, typically featuring high water resistance, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and luminous hands and markers.
- Field Watch – A rugged, durable watch designed for outdoor and military use, often featuring a simple dial for easy readability.
- Flieger – A pilot’s watch design originating from World War II, characterized by large, easy-to-read dials and robust construction.
- GMT – A function allowing the wearer to track a second time zone, often using a 24-hour hand.
- Crown – The small knob on the side of the watch used for setting the time, date, and in some cases, winding the watch.
- Sapphire Crystal – A type of crystal commonly used for watch faces and case backs, known for its scratch resistance.
- Hardlex Crystal – A proprietary crystal developed by Seiko, combining mineral glass with additional toughness, though less scratch-resistant than sapphire.
- Mineral Crystal – A less expensive glass material used for watch crystals, known for shatter resistance but more prone to scratching than sapphire.
- Aperture – An opening on the watch dial that displays additional information such as the date, day, or moon phase.
- Frequency – Measured in Hertz (Hz), this term refers to the number of vibrations per second of the movement’s balance wheel, with higher frequencies generally translating to better accuracy.
Watch Case Terms
- Case – The outer covering of the watch that holds all the internal components.
- Bezel – The ring surrounding the watch dial, often rotating in diving or sports watches.
- Lugs – The parts of the watch case where the strap or bracelet is attached.
- Caseback – The rear cover of the watch case, which can be either solid or transparent.
- Crown – The knob on the side of the watch used to set the time and wind the watch.
- Screw-Down Caseback – A caseback that screws into the watch for added water resistance.
- Exhibition Caseback – A transparent caseback that allows the movement to be visible.
- Unidirectional Bezel – A bezel that only rotates in one direction, typically used in dive watches.
- Monobloc Case – A one-piece watch case without a separate caseback, often enhancing water resistance.
- Pusher – Buttons located on the side of the case, typically used to control chronograph functions or other complications.
- Integrated Lugs – Lugs that are designed to blend seamlessly into the case, often giving the watch a more cohesive and streamlined appearance.
- Midcase – The central section of the watch case, sandwiched between the bezel and the caseback, often housing the movement and dial.
- Case Flanks – The sides of the watch case, typically where the crown and pushers are located.
- Helium Escape Valve – A valve used in professional dive watches to release helium gas that may accumulate in the case during deep dives, preventing the crystal from popping off.
- Fixed Bezel – A bezel that does not rotate, often used for decorative or protective purposes rather than functional ones.
- Tachymeter Bezel – A fixed or rotating bezel engraved with a tachymeter scale, allowing the wearer to calculate speed based on time elapsed.
- Bezel Insert – A replaceable ring that sits inside the bezel, often made of materials like ceramic, aluminum, or stainless steel, featuring scale markings or other decorative elements.
- Crown Guards – Protrusions on either side of the crown to protect it from damage during impact or while being worn.
- Water-Resistant Case – A case designed to prevent water from entering the watch, usually rated to specific depths (e.g., 50m, 100m, 300m).
- Plasma Ceramic Case – A high-tech material used in watch cases, known for its scratch resistance, lightweight properties, and smooth finish. Unlike regular ceramics, it undergoes a plasma process to create a unique color.
- Titanium Case – A case made of titanium, known for being lightweight, durable, and hypoallergenic, often used in high-end or sports watches.
- Ceramic Case – A scratch-resistant and lightweight material used in modern watch cases, often providing a sleek and polished appearance.
- PVD Coating – Stands for Physical Vapor Deposition, a process used to apply a thin, durable coating to the watch case, typically for coloring or added protection.
- DLC Coating – Diamond-Like Carbon, a specialized coating applied to watch cases for extreme durability and scratch resistance, often giving the case a dark, matte finish.
- Cushion Case – A case shape characterized by its rounded square or rectangular design, providing a more vintage or retro look.
- Tonneau Case – A case shape that resembles a barrel, often wider in the middle and narrower at the top and bottom.
- Oversized Case – A larger-than-average watch case, typically 44mm or larger, used for fashion or bold styling.
- Screw-Down Crown – A crown that screws tightly into the case, ensuring a higher level of water resistance.
- Snap-On Caseback – A caseback that is pressed or snapped into place, rather than screwed in, typically found in lower water resistance watches.
- Case Diameter – The width of the watch case, measured across the center from one side to the other, often expressed in millimeters.
- Case Thickness – The depth or height of the watch case from the top of the crystal to the back of the case, also measured in millimeters.
- Fluted Bezel – A bezel with decorative, grooved edges, often found on classic or dress watches, providing a refined appearance.
- Rotating Bezel – A bezel that can be turned to measure elapsed time or perform specific calculations, such as on dive or pilot watches.
- Coin-Edge Bezel – A bezel design featuring small, ridged edges resembling the edge of a coin, commonly used for easy grip and added aesthetic detail.
- Polished Case – A case finish that is highly polished for a reflective, mirror-like appearance, often used in dress watches.
- Brushed Case – A case finish that has been textured with fine lines or “brushed” for a more subdued, matte appearance, often used in tool watches.
- Chamfered Edges – Angled or beveled edges found on the case, often added for visual appeal or to enhance the comfort of wearing the watch.
- Lug Width – The distance between the lugs where the strap or bracelet is attached, usually measured in millimeters and important for choosing compatible straps.
- Spring Bar – A small metal bar with spring-loaded ends, used to attach the watch strap or bracelet to the lugs.
- Double Case – A case design where the watch has an inner and outer case, often for added protection or aesthetic layering.
- Rehaut – The inner ring between the dial and the crystal, often used for branding or additional markings like serial numbers.
- Bezel Lock – A mechanism that locks the bezel in place to prevent accidental rotation, often used in professional dive watches.
Watch Dial Terms
- Dial – The face of the watch that displays the time and other information, usually marked with indices or numerals.
- Hands – The parts of the watch that indicate time (hour, minute, second).
- Indices – The markings on the dial that indicate hours, minutes, or other units of time.
- Sub-Dial – A smaller dial within the main dial, often used for chronograph functions or additional time zones.
- Date Window – A small opening on the dial that displays the date.
- Lume – Luminescent material applied to the hands or indices to make them glow in the dark.
- Skeleton Dial – A dial design that exposes the inner workings of the movement, either fully or partially.
- Open Heart Dial – A partially exposed dial that shows part of the movement, often the balance wheel.
- Tachymeter Scale – A scale printed on the outer edge of the dial, used to measure speed based on time traveled over a fixed distance.
- Power Reserve Indicator – A sub-dial or scale that shows how much energy remains in the watch’s movement before it needs winding.
- Moonphase – A complication that displays the current phase of the moon.
- Chapter Ring – The inner ring of the dial that typically features minute or second markings, often used to separate the hour markers from the rest of the dial.
- Sunburst Dial – A dial finish that reflects light in a radial pattern, creating a gradient effect that mimics rays of sunlight.
- Guilloché Dial – A decorative dial pattern created by engraving intricate, repetitive lines or shapes, often found in luxury watches.
- Matte Dial – A dial finish that is non-reflective and smooth, giving the watch a more understated and subdued appearance.
- Glossy Dial – A dial with a shiny, polished surface, often used to give a more luxurious or eye-catching look.
- Enamel Dial – A dial made by firing powdered glass to create a smooth, glossy surface. Enamel dials are known for their vivid color and durability.
- Sector Dial – A type of dial design with concentric circles or sectors that divide the dial into different areas, often used for added clarity or aesthetic interest.
- California Dial – A dial design featuring Roman numerals on the top half and Arabic numerals on the bottom half, originally used in early military watches.
- Sandwich Dial – A two-layer dial construction where the bottom layer has luminescent material and the top layer has cutouts for the indices, creating depth and a three-dimensional effect.
- Railroad Track Dial – A dial design featuring a track-like pattern of minute or second markings around the outer edge of the dial, reminiscent of early railroad watches for precise timekeeping.
- Arabic Numerals – Standard numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.) used on the dial to mark hours or minutes.
- Roman Numerals – Numerals in the Roman style (I, II, III, etc.) used on the dial for a more classic or elegant appearance.
- Baton Markers – Simple, straight markers used to indicate hours, often giving the dial a clean and modern look.
- Diamond Cut Markers – Hour markers that are cut or polished to reflect light like a diamond, often found on luxury or dress watches.
- Applied Indices – Hour markers that are physically attached to the dial rather than printed on, creating a raised, three-dimensional effect.
- Panda Dial – A dial with a white or light-colored background and black sub-dials, resembling the face of a panda. Typically used in chronographs.
- Reverse Panda Dial – A dial with a black or dark background and white sub-dials, the inverse of the panda dial design.
- Gradient Dial – A dial with a color gradient, where the color gradually changes from lighter in the center to darker at the edges (also known as a “fumé” dial).
- Textured Dial – A dial that has been finished with a tactile surface, such as patterns, ridges, or grooves, to add visual interest and depth.
- Meteorite Dial – A dial made from a slice of meteorite, characterized by its natural, intricate pattern and unique texture.
- Mother of Pearl Dial – A dial made from the iridescent inside layer of certain shells, often used in luxury or women’s watches for its shimmering effect.
- Small Seconds – A sub-dial on the main dial that displays the seconds, often found in mechanical watches where the seconds hand is separated from the hour and minute hands.
- Day/Date Window – A window on the dial that displays both the day of the week and the date.
- Retrograde Indicator – A hand that moves along a curved scale and snaps back to the starting point at the end of its range, often used for date or power reserve indicators.
- GMT Dial – A dial that features an additional 24-hour scale or hand to indicate a second time zone, commonly used in travel watches.
- World Time Dial – A complication that displays the current time in multiple time zones simultaneously, often including a rotating bezel or dial ring with major cities listed.
- Double-Calendar Dial – A dial featuring two windows, one for the date and another for the day, often used for improved legibility.
- Day/Night Indicator – A sub-dial or small window that indicates whether it is day or night in the 24-hour cycle, often linked to the GMT function.
- Perpetual Calendar – A highly complex dial complication that accounts for varying month lengths and leap years, displaying the date, day, month, and sometimes moon phase.
- Regulator Dial – A dial design where the hour, minute, and second hands are separated onto different sub-dials for precise reading, often used in chronometers.
- Chronograph Dial – A dial equipped with additional sub-dials and pushers for measuring elapsed time, typically featuring two or three sub-dials for seconds, minutes, and hours.
- 24-Hour Dial – A dial that displays time in a 24-hour format instead of the standard 12-hour format, often used in military or aviation watches.
- Big Date – A large date display window, often using two disks to show the tens and ones digits separately for better legibility.
- Annual Calendar Dial – A complication that displays the date, day, and month and only requires adjustment once a year, typically at the end of February.
- Skeleton Hands – Watch hands that are hollowed out, allowing parts of the dial or movement to be seen through them, often adding a lightweight and modern appearance.
Strap/Bracelet Terms
- Strap – The material used to secure the watch to the wrist, typically leather, rubber, or fabric.
- Bracelet – A metal band, often made of stainless steel or titanium, that holds the watch on the wrist.
- Lug Width – The measurement between the lugs where the strap or bracelet attaches to the case.
- Deployant Clasp – A type of folding clasp that allows the watch strap or bracelet to open and close securely.
- Pin Buckle – A traditional buckle with a pin that fits into holes in the strap to secure it.
- Milanese Bracelet – A type of metal bracelet made from tightly woven wire mesh, offering a sleek and comfortable fit.
- NATO Strap – A one-piece nylon strap that threads under the watch, known for its durability and military origins.
- ZULU Strap – Similar to a NATO strap but thicker, with rounded metal hardware.
- Rubber Strap – A strap made from rubber, often used for dive watches due to its water resistance.
- Quick-Release Strap – A strap with a built-in mechanism that allows easy removal without the use of tools.
- Perforated Strap – A strap with small holes punched into it for breathability, often found in racing or sports watches.
- Tropic Strap – A type of rubber strap with a textured pattern, popular on vintage dive watches for its durability and flexibility.
- Beads of Rice Bracelet – A type of bracelet with small, rounded metal links that resemble grains of rice, known for its smooth and comfortable fit.
- Oyster Bracelet – A robust, three-link metal bracelet design, commonly associated with Rolex watches, known for its durability and versatility.
- Jubilee Bracelet – A five-link bracelet design that combines smaller outer links with larger central links, often seen in dress watches.
- President Bracelet – A distinctive three-link bracelet design with rounded links, typically associated with high-end luxury watches.
- Folding Clasp – A type of clasp that folds in on itself to securely close, often found in metal bracelets for a more streamlined look.
- Butterfly Clasp – A double-folding clasp that opens symmetrically, providing a more seamless appearance when closed.
- Velcro Strap – A strap secured by Velcro, often used in military or sports watches for quick adjustments and secure fastening.
- Leather Strap – A strap made from genuine or synthetic leather, commonly used in dress watches for a classic look.
- Top-Grain Leather Strap – A strap made from the top layer of cowhide, offering a balance between durability and a refined appearance.
- Alligator/Crocodile Leather Strap – A luxury strap made from alligator or crocodile leather, often used in high-end dress watches.
- Textile Strap – A strap made from fabric materials such as canvas or sailcloth, often used for casual or military-inspired watches.
- Cordura Strap – A strap made from durable nylon fabric, known for its toughness and often used in rugged or military-style watches.
- Silicone Strap – A soft, flexible strap made from silicone, often used in sports or dive watches for comfort and water resistance.
- Bracelet Links – The individual pieces that make up a metal bracelet, which can sometimes be adjusted for size by adding or removing links.
- End Links – The small sections that connect the bracelet to the watch case, which can be solid or hollow depending on the design.
- Solid End Links – A higher-quality end link made from a solid piece of metal, providing a more secure connection between the bracelet and the case.
- Hollow End Links – End links made from hollow metal, often used in vintage watches or for cost-saving purposes, but generally less secure than solid end links.
- Spring Bar – A small, spring-loaded bar that attaches the strap or bracelet to the watch case, typically fitted between the lugs.
- Micro-Adjustment – A feature in some watch clasps or bracelets that allows small adjustments to the size for a better fit, often without the need for tools.
- Mesh Bracelet – A metal bracelet with a woven or mesh design, providing flexibility and a smooth fit against the wrist.
- Shark Mesh Bracelet – A thick, durable mesh bracelet often used in dive watches, designed to withstand the harsh conditions of underwater use.
- Padded Strap – A leather or textile strap with extra padding, providing more comfort and thickness for the wearer.
- Bund Strap – A wide leather strap with an extra piece of leather underneath the watch case, originally designed for pilots to protect their skin from the metal case.
- Double Ridged Strap – A strap design featuring raised ridges on both sides, often adding texture and a more rugged appearance to the watch.
- Two-Piece Strap – A strap that is divided into two separate pieces, one attached to each side of the watch case, secured with a clasp or buckle.
- Single-Piece Strap – A one-piece strap that threads through both lugs and under the watch case, like the NATO or ZULU strap.
- Cuff Strap – A thick, wide leather strap that covers more of the wrist and gives a bold, vintage look, often seen in military or aviator-style watches.
- Bracelet Stretch – A bracelet feature that allows the links to expand slightly, offering more comfort when the wrist swells during the day.
- Expansion Bracelet – A flexible bracelet that can stretch to fit over the hand without the need for a clasp, often used in vintage or medical watches.
- Sailcloth Strap – A strap made from durable sailcloth material, often used for rugged or outdoor watches due to its water-resistant and tough properties.
Complication Terms
- Complication – Any feature on a watch beyond the standard display of hours, minutes, and seconds.
- Chronograph – A watch function that acts as a stopwatch, allowing the user to measure elapsed time independently from the standard time display.
- Flyback Chronograph – A type of chronograph that allows the user to reset the stopwatch hand and start it again with a single press, without stopping it first.
- Split-Second Chronograph – A chronograph with an additional hand to measure intermediate times while the main chronograph hand continues to run.
- GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) – A complication that allows the watch to display two time zones simultaneously, typically through an additional hour hand.
- Moon Phase – A complication that displays the current phase of the moon, often shown through a small aperture on the dial.
- Perpetual Calendar – A calendar complication that accounts for varying lengths of months and leap years, ensuring the watch remains accurate for long periods without manual adjustment.
- Annual Calendar – A calendar complication that accounts for months with different lengths but requires manual adjustment once a year, typically at the end of February.
- Tourbillon – A mechanical complication designed to improve accuracy by rotating the entire escapement mechanism to counteract the effects of gravity.
- Minute Repeater – A complication that chimes the time on demand, usually with different tones for hours, quarter hours, and minutes.
- Tachymeter – A scale typically found on the bezel or dial that allows the user to calculate speed based on time traveled over a fixed distance.
- Power Reserve Indicator – A complication that shows how much energy remains in the watch’s mainspring, typically displayed on the dial through a subdial or gauge.
- Retrograde – A display complication where the hand moves along an arc (rather than a full circle) and jumps back to the starting point once it reaches the end.
- Big Date – A date complication that displays the date using two separate discs for the tens and ones digits, providing a larger and more legible display.
- Jumping Hour – A complication where the hour hand or display “jumps” to the next hour instantaneously rather than gradually moving, often found in digital mechanical watches.
- Equation of Time – A rare complication that shows the difference between mean solar time (what clocks measure) and true solar time (the actual movement of the sun).
- Regulator – A type of dial where the hours, minutes, and seconds are displayed separately, with each function on its own subdial.
- Alarm – A complication that allows the watch to sound a chime or beep at a preset time, similar to an alarm clock.
- World Time – A complication that displays the time in multiple time zones simultaneously, often via a rotating inner bezel marked with city names.
- Day/Night Indicator – A complication that shows whether it’s day or night, often through a rotating disc that changes from light to dark.
- Retrograde Date – A date display where the hand moves in an arc from 1 to 31, then jumps back to 1 at the end of the month.
- Triple Calendar – A complication that displays the day, date, and month, usually through windows or subdials on the watch face.
- Helium Escape Valve – A function found on professional dive watches that allows helium to escape from the watch during decompression, preventing the crystal from popping off.
- Depth Gauge – A complication on dive watches that measures the depth of a dive, typically displayed on the dial or as a secondary gauge.
- Yacht Timer/Regatta Timer – A complication designed for yacht racing that counts down the critical minutes before the start of a regatta, often with a visual or audible signal.
- Repeater – A complication that chimes the time, often divided into quarter or half-hour increments, activated by a pusher or slider.
- Rattrapante – A split-seconds chronograph feature where a second chronograph hand can be stopped and started independently for measuring intermediate times.
- Multi-Scale Chronograph – A chronograph that includes multiple scales, such as tachymeter, telemeter, and pulsometer, for measuring different types of data like speed, distance, and heart rate.
- Pulsometer – A scale used to measure a person’s heart rate, often found on the outer edge of a chronograph dial.
- Telemeter – A scale used to measure the distance between the observer and an event that is both visible and audible, such as lightning and thunder.
- Foudroyante – A rare chronograph complication that measures fractions of a second, typically displaying 1/8 or 1/10 of a second on a rotating subdial.
- Deadbeat Seconds – A complication where the second hand “ticks” rather than sweeps, mimicking the motion of a quartz watch in a mechanical movement.
- Skeletonized Complication – A complication displayed through a skeletonized dial, allowing a view of the movement and its complications, typically with decorative finishing.
- Annual Moonphase – A moon phase complication that automatically adjusts for the moon’s cycle throughout the year, requiring less manual adjustment.
- Tide Indicator – A complication often found in marine or sailing watches, which displays the current tide level based on the position of the moon.
- Solar Compass – A complication that allows the wearer to determine geographic directions using the position of the sun and the watch’s time.
Custom Watch Manufacturing Terms
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)
A company that manufactures products based on another company’s design and specifications. - ODM (Original Design Manufacturer)
A company that designs and manufactures products for another brand to sell under its own brand name. - Private Label
A product manufactured by one company for sale under another company’s brand. - Bespoke Watch
A fully customized watch made to a customer’s specifications, including design, materials, and features. - Custom Logo
The process of adding a company’s logo to the watch dial, case back, or other components for branding purposes. - Prototype
An initial version of a custom watch created to test the design and functionality before mass production. - MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)
The minimum number of units required by a manufacturer to start production of a custom watch design. - CAD Design (Computer-Aided Design)
A digital design process using specialized software to create precise technical drawings and renderings of a custom watch. - Custom Watch Parts
Any individual component of a watch, such as the case, dial, hands, movement, strap, or crystal, that can be tailored to a customer’s specifications. - Watch Design Brief
A detailed document outlining the customer’s specific requirements for the custom watch, including materials, design elements, movement, and branding. - Sampling
The process of creating sample watches or parts for the customer to review before full-scale production begins. - Mass Production
The large-scale manufacturing of custom watches once the design and prototype are approved. - Custom Caseback Engraving
The process of engraving a custom design, message, or logo on the back of the watch case. - Custom Dial Printing
The technique of printing custom graphics, logos, or numerals on the watch dial according to the client’s specifications. - Custom Packaging
The creation of bespoke watch boxes and packaging materials that align with the brand or customer’s identity. - Assembly Line
A production process where custom watch components are assembled in stages to ensure efficiency and quality. - Watch Certification
Certification from a recognized authority that a custom watch meets specific accuracy or quality standards. - Brand Identity
The visual and conceptual elements that define a custom watch brand, including logos, packaging, and marketing materials. - Water Resistance Testing
A quality control process to ensure that a custom watch meets the required water resistance standards specified by the client. - Custom Movement Options
The selection of specific mechanical or quartz movements from various manufacturers based on customer requirements. - Swiss Made Requirement
Criteria a custom watch must meet to be labeled “Swiss Made,” including assembly in Switzerland and the use of Swiss movements. - Custom Watch Prototype Testing
Rigorous testing of the custom prototype for durability, water resistance, and functionality before moving to mass production. - Lead Time
The time required to complete the design, prototype, and production process for custom watches from start to finish. - Custom Watch Series
A collection of watches designed with a consistent theme or feature set, manufactured as part of a specific project or brand campaign. - Custom Watch Strap Options
The ability to customize the material, design, and buckle of the watch strap, such as leather, metal, rubber, or fabric straps. - Limited Edition Watches
A custom watch collection produced in a limited quantity, often with unique serial numbers to enhance exclusivity and value. - Technical Drawings
Detailed blueprints or schematics used in the manufacturing of custom watch components, typically created during the design phase. - Movement Sourcing
The process of selecting and purchasing the appropriate movement (e.g., quartz, automatic) from manufacturers based on customer preferences. - Custom Watch Hands
Custom-designed hands (hour, minute, second) tailored to the specific style or function of the watch. - Watch Assembly
The final stage of custom watch production where all components are put together, adjusted, and tested for quality assurance. - Custom Watch Brand Licensing
The process of obtaining permission to use specific logos, designs, or branding elements on a custom watch, often required for collaborations or co-branded products. - Watch Bezel Customization
The ability to design and personalize the bezel, including material, shape, color, and functionality (e.g., rotating dive bezel). - Custom Watch Finishing
The application of various finishes (e.g., polishing, brushing, PVD coating) to the watch case, bezel, or bracelet to achieve the desired aesthetic. - Custom Watch Warranty
A warranty provided by the manufacturer or brand, covering defects in materials or workmanship for a specific period after purchase. - Watch Case Mold Development
The creation of molds used to manufacture custom-designed watch cases, especially for unique shapes or sizes. - 3D Printing for Prototyping
The use of 3D printing technology to create rapid prototypes of custom watch components for design validation and testing. - Custom Watch Dial Texture
Customization of the surface finish of the watch dial, such as sunburst, guilloché, or matte textures. - Custom Watch Color Matching
Ensuring that the colors of the various components (dial, hands, strap) match the customer’s specific color scheme or brand identity. - Custom Watch Launch
The official release and marketing campaign for a custom watch, typically involving branded promotional materials and events. - E-commerce Integration for Custom Watches
The setup of an online platform that allows customers to design and purchase custom watches directly, including features like a watch configurator. - Custom Watch Dial Indexes
Customizing the dial markers (Arabic numerals, Roman numerals, batons, or dots) based on the customer’s design preferences. - UV Printing
A high-quality printing technique used to apply detailed custom designs to the watch dial or other components with durable, vibrant results.
Watch Movement Terms
- Mechanical Movement
A movement powered by a mainspring that must be manually wound or wound automatically through wrist motion. - Automatic Movement
A type of mechanical movement that winds itself as the wearer moves, also called a self-winding movement. - Manual Movement
A mechanical movement that requires the wearer to manually wind the mainspring via the crown. - Quartz Movement
A movement powered by a battery and regulated by a quartz crystal, known for its accuracy and low maintenance. - Swiss Movement
A movement made in Switzerland, known for high quality, precision, and craftsmanship. - Japanese Movement
A movement manufactured in Japan, known for reliability and affordability. - Caliber
The specific model or type of watch movement, often used to differentiate between different movements within a brand (e.g., ETA 2824-2, Seiko NH35). - Tourbillon
A complication in mechanical movements designed to improve accuracy by counteracting the effects of gravity, often visible through an open aperture on the dial or case back. - Chronograph Movement
A movement that includes a stopwatch function in addition to standard timekeeping, often operated by pushers on the side of the case. - Flyback Chronograph
A specific type of chronograph movement that allows the stopwatch function to be reset to zero and restarted instantly with a single push of a button. - Skeleton Movement
A movement that has been cut away to expose its internal components, often visible through the dial or case back, showcasing the craftsmanship of the movement. - Perpetual Calendar
A complication within a mechanical movement that automatically adjusts the date for months with different lengths and leap years, requiring no manual correction. - Power Reserve
The amount of time a mechanical or automatic movement will continue running once fully wound before it stops, typically measured in hours (e.g., 40-hour power reserve). - High Beat Movement
A mechanical movement with a faster oscillation rate, such as 36,000 vibrations per hour (vph), improving timekeeping accuracy but often requiring more frequent servicing. - Compensated Balance
A balance wheel that adjusts for changes in temperature, reducing timing errors in mechanical movements. - Balance Wheel
The oscillating wheel that regulates the timing of a mechanical movement, working in conjunction with the escapement to control the release of energy from the mainspring. - Escapement
The mechanism in a mechanical movement that transfers energy to the balance wheel, regulating the release of energy from the mainspring. - Hairspring (Balance Spring)
A thin, coiled spring attached to the balance wheel in a mechanical movement, responsible for regulating the speed at which the balance wheel oscillates. - Jewels
Synthetic rubies used as bearings in watch movements to reduce friction at pivot points, increasing accuracy and longevity. - COSC Certification
A certification granted to Swiss watches that meet specific accuracy standards as defined by the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute. - Day-Date Movement
A movement that displays both the day of the week and the date on the dial, often found in automatic watches. - Dual Time Zone Movement
A movement that allows the wearer to track two time zones simultaneously, often with an additional hour hand or sub-dial. - GMT Movement
A specific type of dual time zone movement with a 24-hour hand that indicates a second time zone, often used by travelers. - Moonphase
A complication in mechanical movements that tracks and displays the current phase of the moon, typically through an aperture on the dial. - Regulator
A type of movement where the hour, minute, and second hands are placed on separate sub-dials, often used in watches inspired by traditional observatory clocks. - Retrograde
A movement where the hands (e.g., hour or minute hand) move in a sweeping arc, then snap back to the beginning of the scale after completing their course. - Micro-Rotor
A smaller version of the traditional rotor in automatic movements, designed to provide more visibility of the movement’s components without taking up as much space. - Movement Holder
A ring or other device used to securely hold the movement inside the watch case, ensuring stability and alignment. - Shock Absorber
A device within the movement that protects the delicate components, particularly the balance wheel, from shocks or sudden movements. - Stop Seconds (Hacking)
A feature in mechanical movements that stops the second hand when the crown is pulled out, allowing the wearer to set the time precisely. - Jumping Hour
A complication where the hour hand “jumps” to the next hour rather than moving gradually, often found in digital mechanical movements. - Equation of Time
A complex complication in mechanical movements that shows the difference between mean solar time and actual solar time, usually displayed on a sub-dial. - Repeater
A complication that chimes the time on demand, usually by pressing a button or sliding a lever on the case. Common types include minute repeaters and quarter repeaters. - Column Wheel Chronograph
A type of chronograph movement that uses a column wheel to control the start, stop, and reset functions, known for its smooth operation. - Lepine Movement
A type of pocket watch movement with no cover for the winding stem and crown, allowing for a thinner and simpler design. - Pinion
A small gear or shaft with teeth that meshes with larger gears in the movement to transfer power and maintain synchronization of the hands. - Helical Balance Spring
A spiral-shaped balance spring used in some precision mechanical movements, designed to improve accuracy by providing a more consistent torque. - Kinetic Movement
A hybrid movement that combines quartz accuracy with mechanical motion, where the movement of the wrist generates electrical energy to power the watch. - Solar-Powered Movement
A movement that uses light (typically sunlight) to generate power through a solar cell, often stored in a rechargeable battery. - Magnetic Shielding
A protective feature in some movements designed to prevent the interference of magnetic fields, which can affect the accuracy of mechanical movements. - Skeletonized Rotor
A rotor that has been cut away to expose more of the movement, often found in automatic watches with open case backs. - In-House Movement
A movement that is designed and manufactured entirely by the watch brand itself, often considered a mark of prestige. - Modular Movement
A base movement that can have various complications added to it, such as a chronograph or moonphase, allowing for greater flexibility in design. - Central Seconds
A movement design where the seconds hand is mounted in the center of the dial, as opposed to on a sub-dial (small seconds). - Balance Cock
A bridge or support in mechanical movements that holds the balance wheel in place and may be intricately decorated in high-end watches. - Oscillating Weight
The rotor in an automatic movement that rotates to wind the mainspring, often visible through an exhibition case back. - Train of Wheels
The series of gears that transmits power from the mainspring to the escapement in a mechanical movement. - Pallet Fork
A small lever that interacts with the escape wheel in mechanical movements, regulating the release of energy from the mainspring to the balance wheel.
Watch Finishing Terms
- Polishing: The process of smoothing and shining the surface of the watch case or components, often done to enhance appearance and remove scratches.
- Brushing: A finishing technique that gives a matte or satin texture to the surface, commonly used on watch cases and bracelets.
- Sandblasting: A finishing process that involves spraying abrasive materials onto the surface to create a rough, textured finish, often used for a contemporary look.
- PVD Coating (Physical Vapor Deposition): A technique that deposits a thin layer of material onto the watch surface, enhancing durability and allowing for different colors, such as black or rose gold.
- Rhodium Plating: A process of applying a thin layer of rhodium to parts of the watch to enhance shine and provide a protective coating against tarnishing.
- Satin Finish: A soft, brushed finish that is less reflective than polished surfaces, providing a more understated look.
- Geneva Stripes (Côtes de Genève): A decorative pattern often found on high-end watch movements, characterized by wavy lines that reflect light, enhancing the movement’s visual appeal.
- Perlage (Côtes de Perlages): A decorative technique involving a circular graining pattern on the surface of the movement or case, creating a shimmering effect.
- Anglage (Chamfering): The process of beveling the edges of components, often seen in luxury watches, enhancing light reflection and showcasing craftsmanship.
- Mirror Polishing: A finishing technique that results in a highly reflective, mirror-like surface, typically used on high-end watch cases and components.
- Lacquer Finish: A finish that involves applying a layer of lacquer to protect the surface and add color or depth, commonly used for dials.
- Matte Finish: A non-reflective surface finish that provides a more subdued appearance, often used in modern and tactical watch designs.
- Guilloché: A decorative technique that engraves intricate patterns onto the surface of the watch, often used on dials and case backs for aesthetic appeal.
- Black DLC Coating (Diamond-Like Carbon): A durable and scratch-resistant coating that provides a black finish, enhancing the watch’s appearance and wear resistance.
- Vintage Finish: A treatment that artificially ages the watch surface, creating a worn and antique look often sought after in retro or vintage-style watches.
- Grain Finish: A textured finish created by using specific abrasive techniques, giving the surface a unique look while maintaining a non-reflective quality.
- Frosted Finish: A surface treatment that creates a matte, textured appearance, often applied to luxury watch cases for a unique aesthetic.
- Enamel Finish: A technique that involves applying a layer of enamel paint to the watch surface, commonly seen in decorative watch dials.
- Tropical Dial: A term used to describe a watch dial that has faded or changed color due to age or exposure to elements, often valued by collectors for its unique appearance.
- Seamless Finish: A term used to describe a high-quality finish that blends different materials or surfaces seamlessly, often seen in luxury watch designs.
- Surface Treatment: A general term referring to any finishing process applied to a watch surface to enhance aesthetics, durability, or functionality.
- Ceramic Coating: A high-tech finish that provides scratch resistance and durability, often used in modern watch cases and bezels.
- Aged Finish: A finishing style designed to mimic the look of a watch that has been worn and weathered over time, often appealing in vintage-inspired designs.
- Heat Treatment: A process that involves heating the metal to enhance its hardness and durability, often used in the production of watch cases.
- Laser Engraving: A modern technique that uses laser technology to etch intricate designs or text onto watch surfaces, providing a high level of detail.
- Micro-blasting: A finishing technique that uses fine particles to create a uniform, textured finish on surfaces, enhancing grip and aesthetic appeal.
- Oxidized Finish: A process that chemically alters the surface of the metal, creating a darkened effect that can enhance the watch’s vintage or rugged appearance.
- Bead Blasting: A finishing process where small beads are used to create a uniform, matte surface finish, commonly applied to titanium and stainless steel components.
- CNC Machining: A precision machining process that can be used to create intricate designs and shapes on watch components, ensuring high accuracy and detail.
- Anti-Reflective Coating: A treatment applied to watch crystals to reduce glare and enhance visibility under various lighting conditions.
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