Watch Glossary

Dial scale measuring speed based on distance traveled, primarily used on racing chronographs.

Scale on bezel used to measure speed based on distance traveled.

Graduated scale measuring speed based on distance and time elapsed.

Simple pin-style buckle that fastens through a leather or fabric strap.

Cartier's rectangular dress watch inspired by military tanks, since 1917

Rectangular case design inspired by military tanks, featuring distinctive curved sides and lugs.

Scale calculating distance based on time delay between light and sound

Bezel with telemeter scale measuring distance based on sound and light propagation differences

Scale calculating distance based on sound propagation and light timing.

Mechanism to counteract effects of temperature changes on timekeeping accuracy

Controlled heating and cooling of steel to achieve desired hardness and resilience properties.

Fine-tuning of mechanical tensions in watch movement for optimal performance

Standardized procedures by COSC for evaluating chronometer precision and reliability

Electronic adjustment system maintaining quartz accuracy across temperature variations

Advanced quartz movement with temperature compensation for superior chronometric stability.

Integrated scale displaying ambient temperature, typically placed on the dial edge or subsidiary dial.

Intermediate wheel in gear train that transfers power between barrel and center wheel

Case construction with separate middle, caseback, and crystal components assembled together.

Minute repeater chiming hours, quarter hours, and minutes when respective pushers are activated individually.

Displays tidal information based on lunar cycles, useful for maritime and sailing activities.

Dial with distinctive turquoise/Tiffany blue color, iconic Rolex collectible variant.

Tool that analyzes watch beat, amplitude, and rate in real-time.

Maximum allowed variation in seconds per day certified by COSC standards

Fixed outer bezel marking specific time intervals for dive planning.

Electronic device that measures watch rate and performance parameters.

Lightweight, hypoallergenic metal alloy offering excellent strength and corrosion resistance

Lightweight metal bracelet, superior strength-to-weight ratio, hypoallergenic

Medical-grade titanium alloy offering superior strength-to-weight ratio and hypoallergenic properties.

Barrel-shaped case wider at the center and tapered at the lugs, resembling a wine barrel.

Robust, functional watch designed for professional or demanding work conditions

Shape of gear teeth affecting smoothness and efficiency of power transmission

Buffed leather layer below full-grain, smooth finish, moderate durability

Mechanism encasing the balance wheel assembly in rotating cage to counteract gravity effects.

Dial design between major production eras, combining features of both generations.

Three gasket seals providing maximum water protection on diver's watches.

Rolex's triple waterproofing crown system for deep diving watches

Radioactive luminous material used in watch dials from 1960s-1990s, safer than radium

Gradual reduction in luminescence brightness of tritium-based watch dials at approximately 5.5% per year

Dial coated with tritium, a radioactive hydrogen isotope providing continuous glow without light exposure

Radioactive luminous material used in vintage watches, glows without recharging.

Sealed glass or metal tube filled with tritium gas used for constant watch dial luminescence

Rubber strap with drainage holes, ideal for water sports and humid conditions

Vintage dial with distinctive brown patina from age and UV exposure

Luminous material that faded from original bright white or cream to warm brownish tones

Seconds hand that advances in one-second jumps at specific intervals, also called dead beat.

Barrel polishing process tumbling watch parts with abrasive media for uniform finishing.

Rolex's double waterproofing system for the crown protecting the watch

Case design consisting of a case middle and caseback, with the crystal fitted into the middle.

Separate sections for each side of watch, allows easy change and cleaning

Mixed metal bracelet combining gold and stainless steel for hybrid aesthetic

Minimalist collecting approach; typically one dress and one sports watch