Watch Glossary - Watch Terminology & Phrases Explained

Alarm:

A feature on a watch that allows it to sound at a preset time. This complication is useful for reminders and is found in both mechanical and quartz watches.

Alpha Hands:

These hands are wide at the base and taper towards a sharp point. The alpha hand shape is simple, elegant, and often found on dress watches or chronographs.

Altimeter:

A complication that measures altitude above sea level. Often found in watches designed for pilots or outdoor adventurers.

Amplitude:

Refers to the degree of rotation of the balance wheel in a mechanical watch. It indicates the energy transferred from the mainspring to the balance wheel, which impacts timekeeping accuracy.

Analog:

A traditional watch display using hands to indicate time, as opposed to a digital display that uses numbers.

Annual Calendar:

A complication that displays the day, date, and month, but only requires manual adjustment once a year, typically at the end of February.

Anti-magnetic:

Refers to a watch designed to resist the effects of magnetism, which can otherwise affect the accuracy of a watch by disturbing the balance spring.

Aperture:

A small window or opening on the watch dial that displays information such as the date, day, or month.

Arab Numerals:

The numbers (1, 2, 3, etc.) often used on watch dials to indicate hours. These are distinct from Roman numerals.

Arbor:

A pivot or shaft in a mechanical watch that holds components such as gears or the mainspring.

Ardillon Buckle:

Also known as a pin buckle, this is a traditional buckle with a pin that fits into holes on the strap to secure the watch on the wrist.

Arrow Hands:

Hands with an arrow-shaped tip. This style is commonly used on sports or military watches, providing enhanced legibility.

Art Deco:

A style of design often used in watches, especially in the early 20th century, featuring geometric shapes, symmetry, and bold, stylized details.

Astronomical Complication:

A complication that displays various celestial events, such as the positions of stars, planets, or the constellations. It can also include sunrise and sunset times or even a sky chart.

Automatic:

Refers to a self-winding mechanical watch. An automatic watch winds itself using the motion of the wearer's wrist, eliminating the need for manual winding.

Axle:

A small rotating shaft in a watch movement, particularly used in gears and other rotating components.

Balance Spring (Hairspring):

A very thin, coiled spring in the escapement that works with the balance wheel to control the oscillations and maintain timekeeping accuracy.

Balance Wheel:

A key component of a mechanical watch's movement that oscillates back and forth, regulating the release of energy from the mainspring and controlling the watch's accuracy.

Barrel:

A cylindrical component in a mechanical watch that houses the mainspring. It stores the energy that powers the movement and regulates the release of this energy through the gear train.

Baton Hands:

Simple, straight hands that are rectangular in shape, often uniform in width. They are a common feature in minimalist or modern watch designs.

Battery (Quartz):

A small, typically lithium-based power source used in quartz watches. It powers the quartz movement, which regulates time with the help of a vibrating quartz crystal

Bezel:

The ring that surrounds the watch dial, often made of metal or ceramic. It can be fixed or rotating, and in some watches, such as dive watches, the bezel may feature markings for timing.

Bidirectional Bezel:

A bezel that can be rotated in both directions. This is commonly found in watches designed for navigation or for specific sports like aviation.

Blued Hands:

A traditional method of heating steel watch hands until they turn a blue colour, which not only adds to the aesthetic but also makes the hands more resistant to corrosion.

Bracelet:

The metal band or strap of a watch, usually made from materials like stainless steel, titanium, or gold. A bracelet differs from a strap, which is typically made of leather, rubber, or fabric.

Breguet Hands:

A style of hands designed by Abraham-Louis Breguet, the founder of Breguet watches, in the 18th century, characterised by their finesse and elegance. Most often thin with a small apple or a hollowed moon at the end. This style of hands is also sometimes called "Pomme."

Breguet Overcoil:

A design for the balance spring, invented by watchmaker Abraham-Louis Breguet. The overcoil improves the accuracy of the watch by ensuring more consistent isochronism (uniform time intervals).

Bridge:

A structural component in a mechanical movement that supports and secures other parts like the wheels and gears. Bridges are screwed to the baseplate.

Brushed Finish:

A type of surface finishing on watch cases, bracelets, or dials where the metal has been treated to give it a textured, matte appearance, as opposed to a polished, shiny look.

Bubble Back:

A term used to describe certain Rolex models with a distinctive domed case back, designed to house larger, early self-winding movements.

Buckle:

The fastening mechanism on a watch strap, typically found in either a pin buckle (Ardillon) or a deployant (folding) style. It secures the watch to the wrist.

Bullhead:

A style of chronograph watch where the crown and pushers are positioned at the top of the case, resembling the horns of a bull. This design is often associated with vintage racing watches.

Bumper Movement:

An early type of automatic movement that uses a pivoted mass that moves back and forth, "bumping" against springs, rather than rotating 360 degrees as in modern automatic watches.

Cabochon:

A smooth, rounded gemstone used as decoration, often found on the crown of luxury watches such as Cartier. It's typically made of materials like sapphire, onyx, or ruby.

Calendar:

A complication on a watch that displays the date, and sometimes the day, month, and year. Examples include simple date displays, annual calendars, and perpetual calendars.

Calibre (Caliber):

Refers to the movement or mechanism inside a watch. The term can denote the type or model of movement, whether mechanical or quartz.

California Dial:

A dial which combines Roman numerals in the top half with Arabic numerals in the bottom half. It often has a mix of different numeral styles, with markers or dots in place of 3, 6, 9, and 12.

Cambered:

A term used to describe a slightly curved or arched watch crystal, dial, or case. This design element is often employed to enhance aesthetics or improve the fit on the wrist.

Cannon Pinion:

A key component in a mechanical watch movement that holds the minute hand and transmits the motion from the gear train to the hands.

Canopus Gold:

Omega's proprietary 18k white gold alloy, known for its brilliant white shine and lasting durability.

Carat (Karat):

A measure of the purity of gold, where 24 carat is pure gold. In watchmaking, it often refers to the gold content of cases or components, usually in denominations like 9ct, 14ct, 18ct, 22ct, and 24ct.

Case:

The housing that contains the watch movement, dial, and hands. Cases can be made from various materials like stainless steel, gold, titanium, or ceramic.

Caseback (Case Back):

The rear side of a watch case. It can be solid or transparent (sapphire crystal) to showcase the movement. Some case backs are screw-down to improve water resistance.

Cathedral Hands:

A style of watch hands with a design that mimics the pointed arches of cathedral windows. These hands are often used in vintage or pilot watches.

Centre Seconds:

A configuration in which the second hand is mounted at the centre of the watch dial and moves around the entire dial, as opposed to being located in a smaller sub-dial.

Cerachrom:

A high-tech ceramic exclusive to Rolex, used for bezel inserts, known for its scratch resistance and vibrant colour.

Ceragold:

An Omega technology used to create gold numerals and scales on ceramic bezels, combining ceramic durability with the luxury of gold.

Ceramic:

A material used in high-end watches, particularly for bezels or cases. Ceramic is highly scratch-resistant, lightweight, and can be produced in various colours.

Chromalight:

A luminescent material exclusive to Rolex used for hour markers and hands, providing a long-lasting blue glow in low-light conditions.

Chronograph:

A complication that allows the watch to function as a stopwatch. Chronograph watches typically feature additional sub-dials and pushers for starting, stopping, and resetting the timing function.

Chronometer:

A high-precision watch that has been officially certified for accuracy by a governing body, like the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC) in Switzerland. Chronometers must meet specific accuracy standards.

Clasp:

A mechanism used to secure a watch strap or bracelet. Common types include deployant (folding) clasps, butterfly clasps, and pin buckles.

Clous de Paris Bezel:

A bezel featuring the same "hobnail" or pyramid-shaped textured pattern as seen in Clous de Paris dials. This decorative engraving adds a refined, tactile element to the watch's bezel, enhancing its elegance and visual appeal, typically found on luxury timepieces.

Clous de Paris Dial:

A decorative dial featuring a pattern of small, raised square pyramids, often created through the guilloché technique. This "hobnail" texture adds elegance and depth to the watch face, commonly seen in luxury dress watches.

Co-Axial Escapement:

A groundbreaking escapement mechanism reducing friction and improving long-term precision and reliability in movements.

Column Wheel:

A component in high-end chronographs that controls the engagement of the chronograph functions (start, stop, and reset). It ensures smooth and precise operation.

Complication:

Any additional feature on a watch beyond the basic function of telling time. Complications include the date, moon phase, chronograph, tourbillon, minute repeater, and more.

Concealed Clasp (Hidden Clasp):

A type of clasp for watch bracelets that is discreetly integrated into the design, making it less visible while maintaining security.

Countdown Timer:

A complication that allows the user to set a specific time and counts down to zero. It's commonly used in sports watches or aviation watches.

Crazy Hours:

A unique complication where the hour markers are placed in a non-sequential order around the dial. Despite the unusual layout, the hour hand "jumps" to the correct, seemingly random position on the dial with each passing hour. This complication, made famous by Franck Muller, adds a playful and unconventional twist to traditional timekeeping.

Crosshair Dial:

Has thin lines dividing the dial into quadrants for a clean, symmetrical look, often used in vintage or field watches.

Crown:

A small knob, usually located on the side of the watch case, used to set the time, wind the movement (in mechanical watches), and adjust other functions such as the date.

Crystal:

The transparent cover that protects the watch dial. Common materials include acrylic, mineral glass, and sapphire crystal, with sapphire being the most scratch-resistant.

Cyclops Lens:

A magnifying lens often found on the crystal of a watch, typically positioned over the date window to make the date more legible. This feature is commonly associated with Rolex watches.

Côtes de Genève:

Also known as Geneva Stripes, this is a decorative pattern of parallel lines engraved on the bridges or rotors of a movement. It's a hallmark of fine watchmaking and is often seen through a transparent case back.

Dauphine Hands:

A style of watch hands that are slim, tapered, and faceted, often seen in classic or dress watches. These hands add elegance to the watch's design.

Day-Date:

A complication that displays both the day of the week and the date, typically through two separate windows on the dial. This is a popular feature in watches like the Rolex Day-Date.

Day/Night Indicator:

A complication that shows whether it is day or night, usually displayed with a sun/moon or light/dark icon. This is often paired with a dual time or GMT function.

Dead-Beat Seconds:

A complication in a mechanical watch where the second hand moves in distinct one-second increments, mimicking the behaviour of a quartz watch. This is achieved through a special mechanism in the movement.

Decimal Chronograph:

A chronograph that measures time in decimal fractions, dividing the hour into 100 units instead of 60 minutes. This is typically used for specialised industrial or scientific purposes.

Deployant Clasp:

A type of folding clasp used on watch straps and bracelets. It allows the band to open and close easily while providing extra security, reducing wear on the strap compared to a traditional pin buckle.

Dial:

The face of the watch where the time is displayed. It typically features hour markers, hands, and sometimes additional complications like a date window or sub-dials.

Diameter:

The width of a watch case, typically measured in millimetres (mm). The diameter gives an idea of the watch's overall size and how it will fit on the wrist.

Digital Watch:

A watch that displays the time using digits on a screen, as opposed to an analog watch that uses hands on a dial.

Display Caseback:

A case back with a transparent section, usually made of sapphire crystal, that allows the wearer to see the inner workings of the movement.

Dive Watch:

A watch designed for underwater use, typically featuring high water resistance, a unidirectional rotating bezel for tracking dive times, and luminescent markers for legibility in low-light conditions.

Diving Bezel:

A unidirectional rotating bezel found on dive watches. It is used to measure elapsed time while underwater, with a 60-minute scale typically marked on the bezel.

DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon):

A type of coating applied to watch cases and components that enhances durability and scratch resistance. DLC is known for its sleek, black appearance and is often used in high-end watches to provide a contemporary aesthetic while protecting against wear and tear.

Double AR Coating:

Short for double anti-reflective coating, this refers to a coating applied to both sides of a watch crystal to reduce glare and improve legibility.

Double Chronograph:

Also known as a rattrapante or split-seconds chronograph, this complication allows for the timing of two events simultaneously. It features two chronograph second hands that can be split apart and then brought back together.

Double Date Aperture:

A feature on a watch dial that displays the date in two digits, typically indicating the day of the month (01 to 31) and the day of the week (e.g., Mon, Tue, etc.). This complication is most commonly known for its use by Rolex in its Day-Date collection.

Drift:

Refers to the inaccuracy or deviation in a watc's timekeeping. Drift can be caused by various factors like temperature changes, magnetism, or mechanical imperfections.

Drive Train:

The series of gears that transmit energy from the mainspring to the escapement in a mechanical watch. It controls the flow of energy, helping to regulate the timekeeping function.

Drop Lugs:

A design feature where the lugs curve or "drop" sharply downward from the case, making the watch sit more comfortably on the wrist.

Dual Time:

A complication that displays the time in two different time zones simultaneously, often using a second hour hand or a sub-dial. This feature is commonly found in travel watches.

Durability:

Refers to a watch's ability to withstand wear and tear, including resistance to shocks, water, dust, and magnetic fields. This is especially important for sports and tool watches.

Ebauche:

A basic, unfinished movement produced by one company and supplied to another, which then finishes and assembles it. This practice is common in the watch industry, allowing brands to customise and refine movements.

Eco-Drive:

A solar-powered watch movement technology developed by Citizen. It harnesses light energy, both natural and artificial, to power the watch, eliminating the need for regular battery replacements.

Elapsed Time:

A function, often on a dive watch, that measures the amount of time passed. Typically, a unidirectional rotating bezel is used to track the elapsed time since a certain moment.

Elapsed Time Bezel:

A bezel used to track the amount of time that has passed, usually found on dive watches. It allows divers to measure time underwater safely, with the bezel typically rotating only in one direction to prevent accidental extension of dive time.

Electromagnetic Interference (EMI):

External electromagnetic forces that can disrupt the accuracy of a watch, especially in non-magnetic or poorly shielded mechanical movements. Some watches are specifically designed to resist EMI.

Enamel Dial:

A dial made from enamel, a material that is heated to high temperatures to create a hard, glossy surface. Enamel dials are highly prized for their beauty and durability.

End-of-Life (EOL) Indicator:

A feature found in some quartz watches that alerts the wearer when the battery is nearing depletion. This is often signalled by the second hand moving in longer intervals, such as in 4-second jumps.

Engine-Turned Bezel:

A bezel decorated with a repetitive, engraved pattern, often seen in vintage watches. It enhances the aesthetic appeal and adds a textured finish.

Engine-Turning:

A decorative technique where intricate patterns, such as guilloché, are engraved onto the watch dial or case. It adds texture and elegance to the watch's design.

Ephemeris:

A complication found in some astronomical watches that tracks celestial phenomena, such as the position of the planets or the phases of the moon, based on an ephemeris table used in astronomy.

Equation of Time:

A highly complex complication that shows the difference between solar time (true solar noon) and mean time (as shown on clocks). The discrepancy varies throughout the year due to the Earth's elliptical orbit and axial tilt.

Escapement:

A critical component in a mechanical watch that regulates the release of energy from the mainspring to the gear train. It controls the watch's timekeeping accuracy by delivering impulses to the balance wheel.

Escapement Wheel:

Part of the escapement mechanism in a mechanical watch. The escapement wheel works with the pallet fork to release the energy from the mainspring in controlled intervals, helping to regulate the watch's timekeeping.

ETA:

One of the largest Swiss movement manufacturers, known for producing reliable and widely used ebauche movements. ETA movements are commonly found in both mid-range and high-end watches.

Everose Gold:

A rose gold alloy developed by Rolex, known for its durability and resistance to fading.

Exhibition Caseback:

A case back with a transparent section, typically made of sapphire crystal, allowing the wearer to view the movement inside the watch.

Exploding Numerals Dial:

A dial design where the numerals gradually increase in size as they approach 12 o'clock.

Facet:

A flat surface on a geometric shape, often seen on gemstones or dials. Faceted designs can add a sophisticated look and enhance light reflection.

Fathom:

A unit of measurement equal to six feet, commonly used in dive watches to indicate water resistance or depth rating.

Feuille Hands (Leaf Hands):

A style of watch hands shaped like leaves. These hands are often slender and elegantly designed, adding a refined touch to the watch's overall appearance.

Fence Post Hands:

Slim and straight, these hands resemble fence posts with rounded ends. They are typically used in watches with a minimalist or Bauhaus-inspired design.

Field Watch:

A type of watch designed for military or outdoor use, characterised by durability, legibility, and often features like water resistance and a simple, robust design.

Finishing:

The process of refining the surfaces of watch components to enhance their appearance and durability. Techniques include polishing, brushing, and engraving.

Flange (Phlange):

In the context of watches, flange refers to the ring or inner rim located between the edge of the dial and the case of a watch.

Fluted Bezel:

A distinctive design feature found on many Rolex watches, such as the Rolex Datejust. It refers to a bezel with polished, grooved, raised, and sloped edges, creating an eye-catching ridged texture around the watch's face.

Flyback Chronograph:

A type of chronograph that allows the user to reset the timing function and restart it with a single press of the push button. This is particularly useful for timing multiple events in quick succession.

Flywheel:

A component in some mechanical watches that helps to smooth out the energy release from the mainspring, improving timekeeping stability.

Frequency:

Refers to the number of vibrations per hour of a watch's oscillator, typically measured in hertz (Hz). Higher frequencies generally indicate greater accuracy; for example, many modern watches oscillate at 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz).

Friction Fit:

A method of securing components, such as the crown or crystal, by using a tight fit rather than screws or adhesives. This allows for easier removal and replacement during servicing.

Frosted Finish:

A decorative finish applied to the case or dial of a watch, giving it a textured, matte appearance. This finish can enhance the visual appeal of luxury timepieces.

Full Hunter Case:

A type of watch case that has a cover over the dial, which opens to reveal the time. This design is often associated with pocket watches.

Fumé Dial:

A dial that features a gradient effect, usually transitioning from a darker colour at the edges to a lighter colour in the centre. This technique adds depth and visual interest to the watch.

Function:

Refers to the specific capabilities of a watch, such as timekeeping, chronograph, perpetual calendar, or any other complications it may have.

Fundamental Frequency:

In quartz watches, this refers to the specific frequency of the quartz crystal that regulates the timekeeping. Common frequencies include 32,768 Hz, which is standard for most quartz movements.

Galvanic Dial:

A type of dial created through electroplating, where the surface is treated to achieve a metallic finish, typically used to add shine and colour to the dial. The galvanic process results in a smooth, reflective appearance and is common in both modern and vintage watches.

Gasket:

A sealing component made from rubber or silicone, used in watch cases and crowns to ensure water resistance by preventing moisture from entering.

Gauge:

A measurement used to indicate the size of certain watch components, such as the thickness of a strap or the size of a spring.

Gear Train:

The series of gears in a mechanical watch that transmits energy from the mainspring to the escapement, regulating the timekeeping function.

Gemstone:

Precious or semi-precious stones used as decorative elements in watches, often set on the dial, bezel, or crown. Common examples include diamonds, rubies, and sapphires.

Ghost Bezel:

A term used for a bezel that has faded or lost its colour, often seen in vintage watches. This characteristic can enhance the watch's patina and value.

Gilt Dial:

A dial where the markers, hands, and text are in gold or appear to be gold-toned. The term "gilt" refers to the gold colouring, which contrasts against darker backgrounds, giving a luxurious vintage look often associated with 1950s and 1960s watches.

Glidelock Clasp:

A proprietary bracelet adjustment system developed by Rolex, designed specifically for divers' watches like the Rolex Submariner to allow for easy and precise adjustments without the need for tools.

GMT (Greenwich Mean Time):

A timekeeping standard that refers to the mean solar time at the Prime Meridian. Watches with a GMT function, such as the Rolex GMT-Master , display a second time zone, often using a 24-hour format.

Gold:

A popular material for watch cases and bracelets, prized for its beauty and prestige. It can be found in various alloys, including yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold.

Graduated Scale:

A scale marked on the watch's dial or bezel, often used for measuring minutes, seconds, or other intervals. It can be particularly useful in chronographs or dive watches.

Grain:

Refers to the texture of leather used in watch straps. Different grains can denote quality and style, with options like smooth, pebbled, or crocodile grain.

Grand Complication:

A term used to describe a watch that includes multiple complications, such as a perpetual calendar, minute repeater, and chronograph, all in one timepiece.

Grande Date:

A complication that displays the date in a larger format, often using two overlapping apertures or a larger single window to show two digits (e.g., "01" for the 1st of the month).

Grande Sonnerie:

A highly complex complication that automatically strikes the hours and quarters, similar to a minute repeater, but can do so every hour and quarter-hour without user activation.

Granular Dial:

A dial with a rough, grainy texture that adds a tactile element to the watch's design.

Guilloché:

A decorative technique involving intricate, repetitive patterns engraved on the watch dial or case. It adds depth and visual interest to luxury watches.

Hairspring:

A delicate spring in a mechanical watch that works with the balance wheel to regulate the timekeeping. It allows the balance wheel to oscillate, controlling the release of energy.

Hallmark:

A mark or stamp found on precious metals, indicating the quality and authenticity of the material used in a watch's case or bracelet.

Hand-wound:

A type of mechanical watch that requires manual winding to store energy in the mainspring, also known as a manual wind watch. The wearer must regularly wind the watch to keep it running.

Handsetting:

The process of adjusting the time on a watch, usually done by pulling out the crown and turning it to move the hands to the desired position.

Heat Resistance:

The ability of a watch to withstand high temperatures without affecting its accuracy or structural integrity, an important feature in some sports and diving watches.

Heat Treatment:

A process used to enhance the hardness and durability of metals, particularly in watch components, improving their resistance to wear and tear.

Helium Escape Valve:

A feature found in some dive watches that allows helium gas to escape during decompression, preventing damage to the watch when it surfaces after deep dives.

Hesalite:

A type of synthetic acrylic used as a crystal in watches, most notably by the Swiss watchmaker Omega.

Hidden Clasp (Concealed Clasp):

A type of clasp for watch bracelets that is discreetly integrated into the design, making it less visible while maintaining security.

High-Beat Movement:

A mechanical watch movement that oscillates at a higher frequency than standard movements, often at 36,000 beats per hour (10 beats per second), resulting in improved accuracy.

Horology:

The study and measurement of time, as well as the art and science of making timepieces, including clocks and watches.

Hour Hand:

The shorter hand on the watch dial that indicates the hour. It moves slowly around the dial, completing one full rotation every 12 hours.

Hour Marker:

The indicators on the watch dial that denote the hours. They can take various forms, including numerals, dots, or applied indices.

Hunter (Hunting) Case:

A type of pocket watch case with a protective cover over the dial, which opens to reveal the time. This design is often associated with vintage pocket watches.

Hybrid Watch:

A watch that combines traditional mechanical elements with modern technology, often incorporating smart features like notifications and fitness tracking.

Hypoallergenic:

Referring to materials used in watchmaking that are less likely to cause allergic reactions, such as certain metals or coatings that reduce skin irritation.

Illumination:

Refers to the use of luminescent materials on watch hands and markers to enhance visibility in low-light conditions.

Impermeable:

A term used to describe a watch that is resistant to water and moisture, often specified by a water resistance rating.

In-House Movement:

A movement that is designed and manufactured entirely by the watch brand itself, showcasing their craftsmanship and technical expertise.

Incabloc:

A shock protection system used in mechanical watches to protect the balance staff from damage due to shocks or impacts.

Independently Wound:

Refers to a watch that can be wound and set independently, often seen in watches with multiple time zones or complications.

Index:

The markers on the watch dial that indicate the hours or minutes, which can take various forms such as dots, lines, or numerals.

Indicator:

A feature on the watch that displays additional information, such as the date, moon phase, or power reserve, often through sub-dials or apertures.

Infinity Loop:

A design element in some watches where the strap or bracelet features a continuous loop, enhancing comfort and aesthetics.

Inscription:

Any text or markings found on the watch case, dial, or movement, which can include the brand name, model number, or limited edition details.

Integrated Bracelet:

A watch bracelet that is designed to flow seamlessly from the watch case, creating a unified appearance. This design is often found in luxury watches.

Intrusive Design:

A design style that integrates complex features or complications into the watch without compromising its overall aesthetic, allowing for functionality without bulkiness.

Inverted Movement:

A type of movement design where the components are arranged in a non-traditional way, often to enhance visual appeal or functionality.

Ion Plating:

A process used to coat a watch case or bracelet with a thin layer of metal through an ionisation process, enhancing durability and scratch resistance while providing a decorative finish.

ISO 6425:

An international standard that defines the criteria for dive watches, including water resistance, durability, and legibility, ensuring they are suitable for underwater use.

Isotope:

Refers to the luminescent material used in watch hands and markers, often based on radioactive materials, though modern watches typically use safer alternatives.

Japanese Quartz Movement:

A highly accurate and reliable quartz movement originating from Japan, known for its precision and affordability. Brands like Seiko and Citizen are notable examples.

Jasper Dial:

A dial made from jasper, a type of chalcedony (a type of quartz that's made up of fine intergrowths of silica minerals, including quartz and moganite) that is often polished for decorative purposes. It adds a unique and natural look to the watch.

Jewel Count:

The total number of jewels used in a watch movement, which can indicate the complexity and quality of the movement. More jewels typically reduce friction and improve timekeeping.

Jewels:

Synthetic or natural gemstones (often rubies or sapphires) used in watch movements to reduce friction and wear in the movement's gear train and enhance durability.

Jigger:

A vintage term for a type of watchmaker's tool used for measuring small components, particularly in the assembly and repair of movements.

Joint:

A term that may refer to the points where the bracelet or strap connects to the watch case, affecting flexibility and comfort.

Jubilee bracelet:

One of Rolex's most iconic and elegant bracelet designs, first introduced in 1945 to celebrate the brand's 40th anniversary.

Jumelle:

A French term for a watch that features two dials, often used to display different time zones or functions simultaneously.

Jump Hour:

A type of display where the hour hand jumps to the next hour instead of moving continuously, often seen in unique or avant-garde watch designs.

Jumping Hours:

A complication where the hour hand is replaced by a digital display or window that "jumps" from one hour to the next, rather than moving continuously. This adds a digital-like precision to a mechanical watch.

Jumping Seconds:

A feature in some watches where the second hand jumps from one second to the next instead of moving continuously, often found in certain types of chronographs or digital displays.

K2:

A reference sometimes used for watches with features suitable for extreme conditions, named after the second-highest mountain in the world.

Karat (or Carat):

A measure of the purity of gold, where 24 karats is pure gold. In watchmaking, it often refers to the gold content of cases or components, usually in the denominations '9kt / 14kt / 18kt / 22kt / 24kt'.

Keyless Works:

A mechanism in a mechanical watch that allows the user to set the time and wind the watch without needing a key, which was common in older pocket watches.

Kilowatt:

While not directly related to watch terminology, it can be referenced in discussions about the energy efficiency of quartz watches versus mechanical ones.

Kinetic:

A type of movement developed by Seiko that combines mechanical and quartz technology. It uses the movement of the wearer's wrist to generate energy and power the quartz movement.

Kinetic Energy:

The energy generated by the motion of the watch's rotor in a kinetic watch, converting movement into electrical energy to power the quartz movement.

Knurled:

A texture applied to certain parts of a watch, such as the crown, pushers, or bezel, providing better grip and enhancing usability.

Lateral Rewind:

A method of winding a watch that uses a lateral motion to wind the mainspring, typically found in some vintage or pocket watch designs.

Leaf Hands (Feuille Hands):

A style of watch hands that are shaped like leaves, often used in vintage and classic watch designs to add elegance.

Lever:

A component in watch mechanisms that helps transmit force, often used in various escapement designs to control the movement of the gears.

Lever Action:

A mechanism in certain watches that allows the user to operate features (such as the chronograph) using a lever, enhancing ease of use.

Lever Escapement:

A type of escapement mechanism used in mechanical watches that employs a lever to control the release of energy from the mainspring to the balance wheel.

Limited Edition:

A watch produced in a restricted quantity, often commemorating a special event or collaboration. These watches are usually highly sought after by collectors.

Linear Power Reserve:

A feature that displays the remaining power reserve in a linear format, rather than through a traditional indicator, allowing for precise monitoring of a watch's energy level.

Linen Dial:

A dial with a fine, woven texture that resembles the fabric linen. The subtle texture provides a unique, vintage look, often found in classic watches from the mid-20th century.

Liquidmetal:

A metallic alloy used with ceramic for bezel markings, known for its scratch resistance and perfect bonding with ceramic materials.

Lug:

The protruding parts on the watch case where the strap or bracelet is attached. Lugs can vary in shape and size, affecting the overall look and fit of the watch.

Lume (Luminous):

A substance applied to the hands and markers of a watch that allows them to glow in the dark, enhancing legibility in low-light conditions. Common materials include Tritium, Luminova, Super-LumiNova.

Luminous Dial (Lumi Dial):

A watch dial that has been treated with luminescent material to enhance visibility in darkness, often found in sport and diving watches.

Luxury Watch:

A high-end timepiece characterised by exceptional craftsmanship, materials, and often accompanied by complications or unique designs. Brands like Patek Philippe, Rolex and Audemars Piguet are examples.

Magnifier (Cyclops):

A small lens placed over the date display to enhance readability.

Mainspring:

The spring in a mechanical watch that stores energy when wound and powers the watch as it unwinds.

Master Chronometer:

A certification that represents the highest standard of precision, performance, and magnetic resistance, as set by METAS (Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology).

Mecha-quartz movements:

Primarily combine the precision of quartz technology for timekeeping with mechanical elements, usually in the chronograph function. This allows for a sweeping seconds hand and mechanical operation when timing events. While many mecha-quartz movements feature chronograph functions, the term specifically refers to movements that blend mechanical and quartz technologies, not exclusively chronographs.

Mechanical Chronograph:

A type of mechanical watch that includes a stopwatch function for measuring elapsed time.

Mechanical Movement:

A watch movement that relies on gears and springs instead of batteries; can be hand-wound or automatic.

Megalith:

A large watch with a bold design and substantial case size, often associated with sports or diving.

Mercedes Hands:

A distinctive style featuring a circular element near the tip of the hour hand, divided into three segments, resembling the Mercedes-Benz logo. This type of hand is famously associated with Rolex's Submariner model.

Meteorite Dial:

Made from actual pieces of meteorite, these dials feature a natural, crystalline pattern known as the Widmanstätten pattern, which forms over millions of years as the meteorite cools. Each meteorite dial is unique, offering an exclusive and exotic appearance often found in luxury watches.

Military Watch:

A watch designed for military use, featuring rugged construction and clear dials, often with luminous markers.

Mineral Crystal:

Tempered glass used for watch faces; more scratch-resistant than standard glass but less so than sapphire.

Minute Hand:

The longer hand on the dial that indicates the minutes.

Minute Repeater:

A complication that chimes the hours, quarters, and minutes on demand, allowing audible timekeeping.

Monochrome Dial:

A dial featuring varying shades of a single colour for a subtle and elegant appearance.

Monocoque Case:

A case design made from a single piece of material, enhancing water resistance and structural integrity.

Monopusher Chronograph:

A chronograph with a single push-button for starting, stopping, and resetting the function.

Moonshine Gold:

Omega's exclusive 18k yellow gold alloy, paler than traditional yellow gold and more resistant to fading.

MoP (Mother of Pearl):

A luxurious material for watch dials made from the iridescent lining of oyster shells.

Movement:

The internal mechanism that powers the timekeeping and complications, available in mechanical, automatic, or quartz forms.

NATO Strap:

A type of strap made from durable nylon, originally designed for military use. It passes through the watch's lugs and under the case, providing extra security.

Nacre:

Also known as mother-of-pearl, this organic material is sometimes used on watch dials for its iridescent finish.

Naiad Lock:

A case back system that ensures the engraved text on the case back remains perfectly aligned after being screwed down.

Nickel:

A metal used in some watch components or alloys. Nickel is commonly used in watchmaking, but it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

Nivarox:

A proprietary alloy used for making balance springs. It is highly resistant to temperature changes and magnetism, improving timekeeping accuracy.

No-Date (Non-Date):

A watch that does not display the date on the dial. This feature keeps the dial cleaner and is preferred by some purists.

Nominal Size:

The approximate size of a watch case, usually measured in millimetres across the diameter, excluding the crown.

Noon:

Refers to the 12:00 position on a watch dial, often marked differently or highlighted for design or legibility purposes.

Novelties:

A term used in the watch industry to refer to new models or innovations introduced at trade shows, such as Baselworld or Watches & Wonders.

Numbered Edition:

A watch where each piece in the series is individually numbered, these are predominantly limited edition watches; however, there are sometimes exceptions.

Obelisque Hands:

These hands are narrow at the base, widen in the middle, and narrow again toward the point, resembling the shape of an obelisk. They often feature sharp, angular edges for a striking look.

Obsidian:

A natural volcanic glass used in some luxury watches as a dial material, prized for its unique black sheen and smooth texture.

Octagonal Case:

A watch case shape that features eight sides, often used in specific designs for a distinctive aesthetic, such as in the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak.

Offset Dial:

A dial layout where the sub-dials or markers are positioned off-centre, often used for aesthetic reasons or to enhance functionality.

Oil Reservoir:

A small chamber within the movement that holds oil for lubricating the moving parts, ensuring smooth operation and reducing wear.

Onyx Dial:

A watch dial made from polished onyx, a type of gemstone that adds a luxurious look and unique character to the timepiece.

Open Case Back:

A design feature in which the back of the watch case is transparent, allowing the wearer to view the movement inside. This is often done with sapphire crystal for durability.

Open Heart:

A watch design that features a cut-out section in the dial, allowing the viewer to see part of the movement or the balance wheel in action.

Operational Reserve:

The amount of time a watch can operate without being wound or worn, particularly important in mechanical watches to indicate how long they can run before needing attention.

Orbiting Hands:

A design feature where the hands of the watch orbit in a circular motion around the dial rather than the traditional rotating motion, offering a unique time display.

Oscillator:

A component in a watch that regulates timekeeping, commonly found in mechanical and quartz movements. In mechanical watches, this typically refers to the balance wheel and hairspring assembly.

Overhaul:

The process of disassembling, cleaning, lubricating, reassembling and sometimes replacement of a watch movement to ensure proper function, often recommended for mechanical watches after a certain period of use.

Oyster Bracelet:

A popular bracelet style used in many Rolex models, featuring flat three-piece links for a robust and comfortable fit.

Oyster Case:

A specific type of watch case design patented by Rolex that is waterproof and dustproof. It features a screw-down crown and a sealed case back, making it ideal for diving and outdoor activities.

Oystersteel:

A special type of stainless steel (904L) used and developed by Rolex, known for its corrosion resistance and exceptional finish.

Pallet Fork:

A part of the escapement in mechanical watches that helps control the release of energy from the mainspring to the gear train, crucial for accurate timekeeping.

Panda Dial:

A dial featuring a light-coloured base with contrasting dark sub-dials, resembling the face of a panda bear. This dial style is commonly used in chronographs and adds a sporty, vintage feel to the watch. The reverse colour scheme (dark base with light sub-dials) is known as a "reverse panda dial."

Parachrom:

An alloy used for the hairspring in Rolex movements, designed to enhance resistance to magnetic fields and temperature variations.

Patina:

The natural ageing process that occurs on certain materials, particularly metals and dials, resulting in a unique, often sought-after appearance that adds character to vintage watches.

Pencil Hands:

Straight and uniform in width, pencil hands are slim and minimalistic, often used in field watches and more understated designs.

Perpetual Calendar:

A complex watch feature that automatically adjusts for varying month lengths and leap years, displaying the correct date without needing manual adjustment.

Phlange (Flange):

In the context of watches refers to the ring or inner rim located between the edge of the dial and the case of a watch.

Pie Pan Dial:

A dial with a sloped, raised outer edge that resembles the shape of an inverted pie pan. This style creates depth and is often found in vintage dress watches, such as the Omega Constellation series.

Pilot Watch:

A type of watch designed for aviation, typically featuring large, legible dials, luminous markers, and functions that assist pilots, such as dual time zones.

Plate:

The base component of a watch movement that houses various parts and provides structural support. It is often made of brass or other metals.

Plongeur Hands:

Used primarily on dive watches, plongeur (French for "diver") hands are characterised by their large, bold shapes, often with a brightly coloured minute hand to ensure high visibility underwater.

Polished Case:

A watch case that has been smoothed and finished to create a shiny surface, often enhancing the visual appeal of the timepiece.

Polished Finish:

A type of surface finish applied to a watch case or bracelet that gives it a shiny and reflective appearance, often used to highlight design features.

Power Reserve:

The amount of time a watch can run without being wound or worn, indicating how long the mainspring will last when fully wound.

Presidential bracelet:

An iconic bracelet style exclusive to the Rolex Day-Date model, which was first introduced in 1956.

Prong:

The small metal piece that holds a gemstone or decorative element in place on the watch case or dial, contributing to its overall design.

Pulsometer:

A scale on the watch dial used to measure a person's pulse rate. It usually features graduated markings that allow the wearer to count heartbeats over a set period.

Push Piece:

A small button on the watch case used to activate certain functions, such as the chronograph or a minute repeater.

Push-Pull Crown:

A type of crown that can be pulled out to set the time or date and pushed back in to secure it, commonly found in many watches for ease of use.

Pusher:

A button on a chronograph watch that is used to start, stop, or reset the timing function. Some watches may have multiple pushers for different functions.

PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition):

A coating process used to enhance the durability and aesthetics of a watch, allowing for various finishes and colours without affecting the underlying metal.

QP (Quantième Perpétuel):

French for perpetual calendar, often abbreviated as QP, indicating a watch that features a calendar function that accounts for leap years and varying month lengths.

Quadrant Dial:

A dial design divided into four sections, often used in vintage or decorative watches, where each quadrant can display different information or styles.

Quality Control:

The process of ensuring that watches meet certain standards of craftsmanship, accuracy, and functionality before they are sold, often involving rigorous testing.

Quality Mark:

An indication or certification that signifies the level of craftsmanship and material quality in a watch, often linked to specific brands or standards.

Quarter Dial:

A dial that includes markers for every quarter of an hour, often used in specific types of watches for enhanced readability.

Quarter Repeater:

A complication in a watch that chimes the hours and quarters, providing an auditory indication of the time at set intervals.

Quartz Crystal:

The component in quartz watches that oscillates to regulate the timekeeping, providing high accuracy as it vibrates at a consistent frequency.

Quartz Movement:

A type of watch movement powered by a battery and regulated by a quartz crystal, known for its accuracy and low maintenance compared to mechanical movements.

Quick Release:

A mechanism that allows for the easy removal and attachment of watch straps or bracelets without the need for tools, enhancing convenience for the wearer.

Quickset Date:

A feature that allows the wearer to quickly adjust the date on a watch by pulling the crown to a specific position, making it easier to change the date without altering the time.

Racing Dial:

&A dial designed with high contrast, typically featuring bold colours and large, easy-to-read numerals or markers. It often includes chronograph subdials and a tachymeter scale for measuring speed.

Rattrapante (Split-Seconds Chronograph):

A type of chronograph that features a split-seconds function, allowing the user to time multiple events simultaneously. The additional hand can be stopped independently of the main chronograph hand.

Regulated Movement:

A movement that has been adjusted for accuracy and precision, typically ensuring it runs within a specified timekeeping standard.

Regulator:

A type of watch that features a separate display for hours, minutes, and seconds, allowing for more precise time reading. The seconds hand is often displayed on a sub-dial.

Rehaut:

The inner bezel of a watch, located between the crystal and the dial, which often includes minute markers or branding. It can add depth to the watch's design.

Release Mechanism:

A component that allows the wearer to activate or deactivate a specific function, such as a chronograph, often through a button or pusher.

Resin:

A synthetic material often used in the construction of watch cases and straps, valued for its lightweight and durable properties, particularly in sports watches.

Retrograde:

A display feature where the hand moves in a fixed arc and returns to the starting point instead of making a full revolution, often used for date or day indicators.

Retrograde Display:

A complication where the hands (or indicators) don't move in a full circle but instead travel along a segment of the dial before snapping back to their starting point. This can be used for hours, minutes, or other displays.

Rhodium Plating:

A process of coating watch components with rhodium, a precious metal that enhances durability and gives a shiny, reflective finish.

Rising Hour Marker:

A feature on some watches where the hour markers increase in size or visibility as the time progresses, often used in artistic or avant-garde designs.

Rolesor:

A term used by Rolex to describe their combination of gold and steel in a watch, often seen in various models.

Rotor:

A semicircular piece in automatic watches that moves as the wearer's wrist moves, winding the mainspring to keep the watch powered without manual winding.

Ruby:

A common type of jewel used in watch movements, helping to reduce friction between moving parts and enhance the movement's longevity.

Rugged Watch:

A watch designed for durability and resilience, often featuring shock resistance, water resistance, and robust materials, making it suitable for outdoor and extreme conditions.

Sandwich dial:

A type of watch dial construction that consists of two layers, providing depth and enhancing the visibility of the hour markers and hands. Used frequently by Panerai.

Sapphire Crystal:

A durable and scratch-resistant glass used for watch faces, made from synthetic sapphire, providing excellent clarity and protection.

Screw-Down Crown:

A crown design that screws into the case to enhance water resistance, commonly found in diving watches to prevent moisture ingress.

Secret Hours:

A complication where the hour hand remains hidden for most of the time, only appearing when the wearer activates it, often by pressing a button. This creates a minimalist look on the dial and adds a mysterious, interactive element to the watch.

Sector Dial:

A specific type of watch dial that features distinct zones or sectors, often separated by different textures, colours, or markers.

Sedna Gold:

Omega's proprietary 18k rose gold alloy, combining gold, copper, and palladium for a long-lasting colour and shine.

Self-Winding:

A type of automatic watch movement that winds itself as the wearer's wrist moves, using a rotor to convert kinetic energy into stored energy.

Shrouded Case:

A design feature where the case is partially covered or protected, often seen in diving watches to enhance durability and water resistance.

Signature:

The brand or logo displayed on the dial or case of a watch, often a hallmark of authenticity and craftsmanship.

Silicon Escapement:

An advanced type of escapement made from silicon, which reduces friction and improves the accuracy and longevity of a watch movement.

Skeleton Hands:

Skeleton hands are open-worked, meaning parts of the hands are cut out or hollowed. This design is common in skeletonised watches where the movement is exposed, as it allows better visibility of the watch's mechanics.

Skeleton Watch:

A watch with a transparent or partially transparent case and dial that reveals the inner workings of the movement, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship.

Smartwatch:

A modern timepiece that integrates technology and smart features, such as fitness tracking, notifications, and app connectivity, often with a digital display.

Snowflake Hands:

A distinctive design with wide, square ends, particularly associated with Tudor watches, especially the Tudor Black Bay line. The "snowflake" hand is most recognisable by its broad and flat minute hand.

Solar-Powered:

A type of watch that uses solar energy to power its movement, typically equipped with a solar cell that converts light into energy. Such as a "Citizen Eco-Drive."

Spade Hands:

The hour hand is shaped like a spade, with a wide, rounded end that comes to a slight point. This classic style is often found on vintage or pocket watches.

Stopwatch:

A function in a chronograph watch that allows the wearer to measure elapsed time with precision, often featuring start, stop, and reset capabilities.

Strap:

The material (such as leather, rubber, or metal) that secures the watch to the wrist, available in various styles and designs.

Subdial:

A smaller dial on the main watch face that displays additional information, such as seconds, chronograph timing, or a date function.

Sundial:

An ancient timekeeping device that uses the position of the sun's shadow to indicate the time; while not a watch feature, it reflects the historical context of timekeeping.

Superluminova:

A luminescent material used on watch hands and markers, providing bright visibility in low-light conditions and charging quickly under light.

Sword Hands:

Resembling a sword, these hands are broad at the base and taper to a sharp point. Sword hands are common on both dive watches and field watches, valued for their legibility.

Tachygraph:

An early term for a device used to measure speed, often incorporated into chronograph watches to display speed based on elapsed time.

Tachymeter (Tachymetre):

A scale on the watch bezel or dial used to measure speed based on time, allowing the wearer to calculate speed over a known distance, commonly found on chronographs.

Tapered Hands:

As the name suggests, these hands gradually taper from a wider base to a fine point. They are similar to lance hands but often subtler in design.

Tapisserie Dial:

A dial featuring a small, repeating square or pyramid pattern, often found in luxury sports watches, most notably in the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak.

Teaked Dial:

A dial that features fine, vertical (or horizontal) lines running from top to bottom, resembling the texture of teak wood.

Tear Drop Hands:

Hands that feature a tear drop-shaped bulb near the tip, often used in vintage or highly stylised watches.

Tension Spring:

A spring that stores energy and is used in various watch components, including the balance wheel and escapement, contributing to timekeeping accuracy.

Tensioner:

A device used to maintain the proper tension in the mainspring of a watch, contributing to its accuracy and performance.

Textured Dial:

A dial with a surface that has been given a specific pattern or finish, adding depth and visual interest to the watch.

Tidal Function:

A complication that tracks the phases of the moon and the corresponding tides, often used in watches designed for sailors or divers.

Time Zone:

A term referring to the different regions of the world that have specific standard times, which is particularly relevant in watches with dual or multiple time zone displays.

Timegrapher:

A specialised device used to measure the accuracy and performance of a mechanical watch movement.

Timekeeping:

The function of measuring time accurately, a primary purpose of all watches, encompassing various methods and technologies.

Timeless Design:

A style that transcends trends, focusing on classic aesthetics and functionality, ensuring the watch remains appealing over time.

Titanium Case:

A watch case made from titanium, known for being lightweight, strong, and resistant to corrosion, making it popular for sports and luxury watches.

Tonneau Case:

A watch case shape that resembles a barrel, often featuring a curved design, offering a distinctive and elegant aesthetic.

Tool Watch:

A watch designed for practical use in specific activities, such as diving or aviation, often featuring enhanced durability and specialised functions.

Tourbillon:

A complex watch mechanism designed to improve accuracy by counteracting the effects of gravity on the movement. The escapement and balance wheel are housed in a rotating cage.

Translucent Dial:

A dial made from materials that allow light to pass through, often featuring luminescent elements that glow in the dark.

Tri-Compax:

A term used to describe a chronograph watch with three sub-dials, typically for elapsed hours, minutes, and running seconds, offering a classic and functional design.

Tuxedo Dial:

A two-tone dial that features contrasting colours, often black and white, mimicking the look of a tuxedo.

Typography:

In the context of watch design, it refers to the style, arrangement, and appearance of the text and numerals displayed on a watch dial.

Ultra-Thin:

A term describing watches that are exceptionally slim, often achieved through advanced engineering and design techniques, emphasising elegance and minimalism.

Underwater Depth Rating:

A specification indicating the maximum depth a watch can withstand when submerged in water, essential for diving watches.

Unfinished Movement:

A watch movement that has not been fully polished or decorated, often seen in lower-end models or as part of the manufacturing process in high-end watches.

Unidirectional Bezel:

A bezel that can only be rotated in one direction, commonly found on diving watches. This feature ensures that the elapsed time can only be overestimated, enhancing safety.

Universal Time:

A term sometimes used interchangeably with UTC, referring to a timekeeping system that is the same everywhere, helping to coordinate activities across different time zones.

Uptick:

A term used in watch auctions or sales that indicates an increase in the price of a timepiece, often reflecting rising demand or value.

UTC (Coordinated Universal Time):

A time standard used worldwide, often displayed on watches with dual-time zone functions, allowing the wearer to keep track of time in multiple regions.

Value Retention:

Refers to the ability of a watch to maintain its market value over time, often influenced by brand reputation, rarity, and demand.

Vernier Scale:

A precision measuring scale used in some watches, particularly chronographs, to enhance accuracy in reading measurements, often found on the bezel.

Vertical Clutch:

A mechanism in chronograph movements that allows for smoother starting and stopping of the chronograph hand, reducing wear and improving accuracy.

Vibration:

Refers to the oscillations of the balance wheel in a mechanical watch, typically measured in beats per hour (BPH) or vibrations per hour (VPH), which directly affects the watch's accuracy.

Vignette Dial:

A dial that features a gradient effect, often darker at the edges and lighter in the centre, creating a visually striking appearance.

Vintage:

Refers to watches that are at least 20 years old, often valued for their historical significance, craftsmanship, and unique designs that reflect the era in which they were made.

Visual Aesthetics:

The overall look and design elements of a watch that contribute to its appeal, including colour, shape, and finishing techniques.

Vitreous Enamel:

A technique used in watchmaking to create a smooth, glass-like finish on dials or cases, valued for its durability and vibrant colour.

Volcanic Dial:

A watch dial made from volcanic rock or inspired by volcanic materials, often used for unique aesthetic appeal in certain luxury or adventurous watch designs.

Vulcanised Rubber:

A durable, flexible material often used for watch straps, particularly in sports and diving watches, known for its resistance to water and UV rays.

Waffle Dial:

A dial with a criss-cross pattern resembling a waffle's surface. This texture adds both visual interest and depth to the dial and is often used in vintage watches or dive watches for added character.

Watch Case:

The outer shell that houses the movement and protects it from dust, moisture, and damage, available in various materials like stainless steel, gold, or titanium.

Watchband:

Another term for a watch strap or bracelet that secures the watch to the wrist, available in various materials and styles.

Watchmaker:

A skilled artisan who designs, assembles, and repairs watches, often requiring extensive training and expertise in horology.

Water Resistance:

A rating that indicates how well a watch can withstand exposure to water. Common ratings include 30m, 50m, 100m, and more, with higher numbers indicating greater resistance.

Waterproof:

A term that indicates a watch's ability to resist water ingress, though it's important to note that no watch is completely waterproof; rather, they have varying degrees of water resistance.

Weekly calendar:

A type of watch complication that displays the days of the week in a dedicated feature, allowing the wearer to easily track the current day.

Weight:

Refers to the mass of the watch, which can affect comfort and wearability. Heavier watches often feel more substantial, while lighter watches are more comfortable for extended wear.

Whip Hands:

Thin, flexible-looking hands, often used for the seconds hand. They are usually long and slender, with a pointed tip resembling the shape of a whip.

White Rolesor:

A specific combination of white gold and Oystersteel, used by Rolex.

Winding:

The process of tightening the mainspring in a mechanical watch, either through manual winding or by the movement of the rotor in an automatic watch.

Winding Crown:

The knob on the side of a watch used to wind the mainspring in mechanical watches and to set the time and date.

World Timer:

A watch feature that displays the time in multiple time zones simultaneously, often equipped with a rotating bezel or a dedicated sub-dial.

Wrist Fit:

The comfort and suitability of a watch on the wearer's wrist, which can be influenced by strap length, case size, and overall weight.

Wrist Roll:

A term used to describe the motion of rotating the wrist to glance at the watch, often associated with the enjoyment of wearing a timepiece.

Wristwatch:

A timepiece designed to be worn on the wrist, distinguishing it from pocket watches and other types of timekeeping devices.

X-axis:

In the context of watch design, this term may refer to the horizontal axis on which certain elements are arranged, especially in three-dimensional or complex dial designs.

X-ray Inspection:

A method used in quality control and watch manufacturing to inspect the internal components and ensure precision and accuracy in assembly.

Xenon:

A type of gas used in some high-end watch luminescence technologies, providing bright and long-lasting glow in low-light conditions, though less common than traditional luminescent materials.

Xenon Flash:

Occasionally referenced in the context of watch photography, where a xenon flash can be used to highlight features of a watch for promotional images.

Yacht Timer:

A type of watch designed specifically for sailors, often featuring a countdown timer for regattas and a robust water-resistant case.

Year Indicator:

A complication in some watches that displays the year, often used in perpetual calendars to show the current year as part of the date function.

Yellow Gold:

A popular material for watch cases and bracelets, made by alloying pure gold with other metals to enhance durability while maintaining its classic yellow hue.

Yellow Rolesor:

A combination of yellow gold and Oystersteel, used by Rolex.

Yoke:

A part of the movement that holds the balance wheel in place and helps regulate its motion, contributing to the watch's accuracy.

Zerograph:

A type of chronograph with a specific scale for measuring time intervals, often used in racing and timing applications.

Zinc Dial:

A type of watch dial made from zinc, often used in lower-end or vintage watches, though less common in modern timepieces.

Glossary Of Watch Terminology

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