Watch Glossary
1104 horological terms explained · 15/19
Clasp with teeth that engage incrementally for precise tension control
The measure of how many seconds per day a watch gains or loses.
Consistency of watch rate over time without external adjustment.
Difference in watch rate between various positions and conditions.
Split-seconds chronograph with two independent stopwatch hands that can be separated and recombined.
Split-seconds chronograph where the second hand can be stopped independently to measure intermediate times.
Four-sided case with right angles and straight edges, elongated horizontally or vertically.
Vintage Submariner with red text dial printing, collectible early reference variant.
Proportion of gear teeth determining speed reduction between successive gear stages
Model designation assigned by manufacturer identifying specific watch variant and specifications
Chronograph with countdown mechanism and acoustic signal for yacht race starting procedures.
Adjusting watch movement accuracy to achieve correct timekeeping performance
Adjustment of hairspring or balance wheel to modify watch rate.
Watch with separate subdials for hours, minutes, and seconds for precise timekeeping.
Adjustable pointer that alters effective length of balance spring to regulate rate
Circular engraved area between dial edge and case inner bezel.
Luminous coating sometimes applied to the watch rehaut ring near the dial edge
Professional restoration service applying new luminous material to vintage watch dials and hands
Intermediate wheel system providing constant force and regulating energy from the mainspring.
Complicated watch striking hours, quarters, or minutes audibly when activated by pusher.
Non-original components installed during service or repair, noted by collectors for authenticity
Dynamic e-ink dial elements that update synchronously with hybrid watch mechanics
Two balance wheels oscillating together to improve stability and accuracy through mutual synchronization.
Paired balance wheels vibrating in resonance to improve chronometric stability and precision.
Complication with hand sweeping across arc then jumping back to start, indicating time passage.
Hand jumps back to start position instead of rotating continuously, creating dramatic visual effect.
Watch dial with black background and white subdials, opposite of traditional panda.
Jaeger-LeCoultre's art deco rectangular flipping case watch from 1931
Applying thin rhodium coating for bright, reflective finish and improved corrosion resistance.
Case design sealing crystal, case, and back for exceptional water resistance.
Metal pin permanently securing links together in a bracelet.
Perpetual rotor, Parachrom hairspring, 48-hour power reserve, widely used in sports watches
Evolved 3135 with Chronergy escapement, 70-hour power reserve, improved efficiency
GMT-Master II exclusive, dual time module, 70-hour reserve, Chronergy escapement
Classical Roman numeral hour markers for elegant formal appearance
GMT-Master II with brown and black bezel insert, resembling root beer coloring.
Bezel that rotates in one or both directions for timing purposes.
Bidirectional bezel allowing divers to track bottom time and decompression stops.
Weighted oscillating component in automatic watches that winds the mainspring via wrist motion.
Date wheel with alternating Arabic numerals and dashes creating a segmented appearance
Audemars Piguet's iconic octagonal sports watch introduced in 1972
Sporty bracelet made from synthetic rubber, water-resistant and flexible
FKM fluorocarbon rubber strap, chemical-resistant, durable, sporty aesthetic
Bracelet combining rubber inserts with steel links for comfort and durability
Durable elastomer material for watch bracelets, popular in diving and sport watches
Application of protective coatings and maintenance to prevent oxidation of components
Dark grey precious metal plating offering distinct color and hardness
Dark metallic coating providing contrast and protection to white metal watch components.
Brief decompression hold near surface; allows final off-gassing before surfacing.
Cross-hatched textured leather, scratch-resistant, popularized by Prada luxury goods
Woven fabric strap traditionally used in sailing, water-resistant and durable
Chronograph optimized for maritime use with specific timing functions for nautical operations.
Peachy-orange colored dial found on vintage Rolex models, prized by collectors.
Bezel with fine matte texture created through sandblasting process for sophisticated appearance
Rough textured surface created by abrasive blasting, offering anti-reflective and aesthetic qualities.
Abrasive blasting process using sand particles to create textured matte finishes on watches.
Case design with applied dial elements creating a layered appearance, often seen in military watches.
Dial construction with luminous layer between transparent sapphire and dial base for enhanced lume
Modern watch dial using sans-serif font for cleaner, contemporary appearance.
Cartier's first wristwatch designed for aviator Santos-Dumont in 1904