Watch Glossary

Low-power reflective screen used in hybrid watches for extended battery life

Quick-adjust bracelet extension system allowing rapid sizing adjustment

Rolex's quick extension system allowing additional links to be added

Unfinished watch movement; semi-completed base for assembly and finishing

Citizen's light-powered technology using any light source to charge the watch indefinitely.

Bezel starting at zero for tracking elapsed time measurement

Integrated cardiac rhythm sensor for health monitoring in advanced smartwatches

Electrical process coating watch components with thin layers of precious metals like gold.

Porcelain-like fired coating providing smooth, durable, and lustrous finish.

Terminal links connecting the bracelet directly to the watch lugs.

Custom connection between bracelet and case lugs for improved aesthetics

Mechanical engraving technique creating intricate geometric patterns using a rose engine lathe.

Bezel with intricate geometric pattern created using engine-turning decorative technique

Robust three-piece link construction with solid links throughout, durable and masculine

Structured leather with waxy coating, rigid finish, resists water and retains shape

Moving hour hand that varies in speed to track the equation of time throughout the year.

Shows the difference between mean solar time and apparent solar time, ranging from -14 to +16 minutes.

Small pinion on escape wheel shaft that meshes with lever or pallet fork

Toothed wheel that delivers impulses to the balance wheel via pallet fork

Number of escape wheel teeth engaged per hour; defines movement speed and accuracy rating.

Mechanism that releases energy from the mainspring in precise, regulated pulses.

Energy transfer ratio from mainspring to oscillator, improved in Co-Axial and Chronergy

Close examination of escapement mechanism for wear and proper function

Toothed wheel in the escapement mechanism that interacts with the lever to release energy.

Ubiquitous workhorse movement, 38-hour reserve, automatic, reliable and affordable

Legendary chronograph movement, column wheel, 42-hour reserve, widely used by luxury brands

Generic Swiss movement manufactured by ETA SA; widely used in affordable watchmaking

Transparent or open caseback allowing view of the movement, common on mechanical and automatic watches.

Explorer II with white dial, resembling polar ice fields, reference 16570.