Watches are complicated and delicate pieces of hand-craft and machinery. Although many wristwatches come in different colours, specifications, models and prices – they all share many parts in common. Below are parts to the common watch and their functions within the timepiece.
Dial
The dial (or face) of the watch is the part of the timepiece in which the numbers are painted or engraved onto and where the minute, hour and second hands are located. The hands tick around the dial pointing at the numbers, thus telling the time. Also on the dial is the brand and usually the model. The date window, if present, can also be found on the dial. The dial of the watch is usually made out of a thin layer of brass that is painted, however precious metals can be used like gold and silver.
Case
The case of the watch can be viewed as the essential component in holding the whole watch together and protecting the inner movement of the timepiece. The case contains the dial, hands and all the movement of the watch. It can also help the watch retain durability and should be efficient in supplying protection when dropped. Watch cases are ordinarily made from stainless steel as it is durable and doesn’t tarnish or discolour. Ceramic can also be used or richer metals like gold and platinum can also be an option due to their colour and fashion statement.
Crown
The crown is the knob on the side of the watch used to alter various functions like the time and date. It is also used to wind the mainspring in hand driven wind-up watches. If loose, the crown can allow water to access the dial and interior of the watch. Their are many types of crown, however they all serve a main basic purpose.
Glass/Crystal
The crystal of the watch is the glass window of the watch that presents the dial for viewing. It can be made from several types of glass or plastic. The most popular is a synthetic glass called mineral glass that is extremely strong. Another glass used is called sapphire and is scratch resistant. Very hard plastic called BLC can also be used, it’s extremely durable and slightly flexible to improve protection of the watch interior.
Strap/Bracelet
The strap or bracelet is the part of the watch that wraps around your wrist to hold the watch into position. The difference between a strap and bracelet is that a strap is made from leather or material and a bracelet is made from metal, like stainless steel, gold or brass. A strap contains a buckle in which it is adjusted to suit the wearer. In contrast, links must be taken out of, or added to a bracelet by The WATCH Lab to fit the wearer and a clasp is used to tighten the bracelet around the wrist.
Bezel
The bezel is the ring around the dial of the watch usually made out of precious metals. It can be used to measure speed, distance and calculate elapsed time. Some bezels can move 360° around the watch and come in different colours.
Definitions
Chronograph – an instrument for recording time with great accuracy.
Guilloche – the process where intricate patterns are carved into the metals parts of the watch.
Horology – the science and study of time.
Mainspring – a coiled spring that gives the power to drive the main gears of the watch.
Mechanical – a watch that runs without any type of electrical source.
Movement – engine or motor of the watch, either quartz, mechanical or automatic.
Quartz – watches that are run by electrical circuits via a battery, the most accurate watches.
If you have any queries about your watch or need a watch repair, do not hesitate to contact The WATCH Lab head office or visit an in store branch.
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