Compare watches and chronographs

Watch lovers know about the unusual and useful function of the chronograph and use it with pleasure. Most do not really understand what is the difference between a watch and a similar mechanism. Our experts will talk about the features of this unusual device, the differences in watches and chronographs, and give a strict assessment of its functionality.

Chronograph in watches: occurrence, device

Many uninitiated watchmakers sometimes confuse «chronograph» with «chronometer» because of the similarity in the name, but in fact they have completely different purposes. The chronograph used in the watch is a mechanism that measures small time intervals on the principle of a stopwatch, but, unlike the latter, it does not affect the operation of the watch and serves as a useful addition to its main function.

The first chronographs, created in the 19th century, were not functional watch components. These were separate devices that not only fixed time intervals, but also recorded the result obtained with an ink needle in the form of dots on the dial.

It was only at the beginning of the 20th century that the world was presented with the first watch model with a chronograph in its current meaning: the progenitor of modern watch products was intended for pilots of the then young aviation industry. But then the mechanism in question only remotely resembled a modern device — it had only one button that performed all actions at once (start, stop, reset the result).

What exactly is a chronograph? There are two main variants of the mechanism used in this device:

1. with a column wheel — the use of such a mechanism is rather a tribute to traditions than functional expediency. The essence of the work is the use of special columns that stand at right angles to the gear and create a fulcrum. The lever that turns on the chronograph, when it hits the columns, activates the rotation of the wheel;

2. cam — the mechanism uses a cam connected by switches, and includes certain levers when using a chronometer.

As for the design features of the chronograph, it can be represented as a constituent component of a wrist watch, built into its mechanism, or as a modular system, built into the watch mechanism separately. The first option is expensive and time-consuming, but at the same time it uses the internal space of the watch more efficiently. The second option is generally more efficient and less expensive to produce. By the way, the modular system allows you to put a chronograph even in a quartz watch, which is quite original.

Functionality and use of the chronograph

At one time, chronographs were quite popular in professional sports, because they made it possible to quickly and accurately measure the result of training. Not without application in aeronautics: before the advent of chronographs, all navigation was carried out exclusively by the clock and compass, and this simple and convenient device became a kind of know-how of its time.

To make flying more convenient for pilots, a fly-back option has been created in the product design, which allows time counting to begin after zeroing. This was the best option in the case of a flight in a clearly defined direction, then a sharp change in corridor and again returning to flight for a given time interval.

Modern chronograph watch models are rather a tribute to traditions and are a stylish and, most importantly, original accessory. Although for some, the aesthetic option does not in the least exceed the functional component in importance. Analog chronograph indicators in the watch give it originality and some «complexity».

ON A NOTE. Chronometers are mechanical and quartz type. When choosing the right option, it is worth remembering that the quartz crystal wears out and “ages” over time, its accuracy gradually decreases.

Speaking of real chronometers in wristwatches, one cannot fail to note the fact that a quality product undergoes mandatory testing at the COSC Chronometry Institute (Switzerland). Upon passing the test, the sample receives the appropriate certificate. Such products are much more expensive than non-certified «brothers».

Of course, compared to any model of standard watches, the chronograph has more functionality. He is able to solve several problems at once:

1. Determining the speed of transport — the presence of a tachymetric scale allows you to calculate the speed of a moving train, car, etc.;

2. Pulse measurement is a particularly popular option among athletes — the presence of a special scale allows you to measure heart rate;

3. Calculation of the distance to the selected object — if you have a telemeter, you can determine the distance even to lightning;

4. Tide control — the device allows, being on the ground, to calculate the date of high / low tide;

5. Implementation of mathematical operations — in the presence of a logarithmic scale;

6. Fixing the duration of a certain event — for example, any match, telephone conversation, etc.

Comparative characteristics

In order to clearly demonstrate the difference between a watch and a chronograph, our experts have compiled a detailed comparison table that includes the features of both devices.