What Is A Quartz Watch?

All proper watch collectors will have a couple of quartz watches in their collection. Even though some enthusiasts favour the tradition of automatic movement, there are actually a number of advantages that quartz watches laud over automatic watches.

Learn everything you need to know about what a quartz watch is, how they work and whether you should choose quartz or automatic in this knowledgeable guide from the experts at CALIBRE.

What is a quartz watch?
How does a quartz watch work?
Quartz watches vs automatic watches

Should I choose quartz or automatic
Our favourite quartz watches

A quartz watch is a timepiece that is powered by a quartz battery cell. This type of movement allows for more accurate and durable timekeeping. A quartz powered watch generally requires a lot less service than a mechanical timepiece, which often makes this type of watch very popular with wearers wanting a simpler timekeeping experience.

How does a quartz watch work?

Quartz watches have dominated the timekeeping marketplace in recent years due to their simplicity. They use a quartz crystal, a battery and an electronic oscillator to work. This advancement in technology allowed for watches to be made in a range of different designs.

When quartz is compressed, it produces an electronic charge that makes an oscillating back and forth movement. When you combine electronic technology with quartz, it allows the current to keep oscillating for a long period, without losing important power.

A small motor is powered by electric pulses, which converts energy from the pulses into mechanical energy, thus resulting in the gears of the watch turning. This then causes the hands to move around the face of the dial. This tremendous advancement in timekeeping technology meant that the movement of quartz watches was not affected by pressure or gravity, result in very accurate timekeeping, with very little upkeep.

Quartz watches vs automatic watches

There are many pros of quartz and automatic movement, and both types have their place in the watch world. However, it’s important to have a look at the main differences and see which movement is better for your lifestyle.

Quartz movement

Quartz watches are just as respected as automatic pieces; however, they function differently.

The advantage to using quartz in watches is that they offer greater precision than other types of mechanical watches because they are able to keep more accurate time within their small frames than traditional coil-driven movements can provide. As quartz watches require less craftsmanship and technical know-how to make the movement, they are generally a cheaper alternative to automatic pieces. This is a big advantage, especially as they are known for their durability. The battery just needs to be replaced every 1-2 years.

Automatic movement

Automatic watches are a popular choice among watch enthusiasts. These timepieces feature a mechanical movement which is powered by the natural movement of your wrist. This means that you never need to replace a battery or manually wind your watch in order to keep it running, and automatic watches also offer exceptional accuracy and reliability, making them an excellent choice for those looking for precision timekeeping.

Automatic watches are an investment when taken care of properly, due to the intricacy of how they are made. Even though quartz watches are accurate, automatic watches also feature accurate timekeeping ability, and to see automatic movement in action is quite breathtaking. Whilst most quartz pieces have more of a ticking motion, automatic watches are known for their sweeping motion. This sweep is appreciated by alot of enthusiasts.

Should I choose quartz or automatic?

Choosing between quartz and automatic watches can be a daunting task. Automatic watches are powered by the natural motion of the wearer’s arm, while quartz watches use a battery-powered oscillator to keep time. Both types have distinct benefits and drawbacks that should be taken into consideration when making your decision, but this decision is ultimately always going to come down to personal preference. If you prefer reliability with little upkeep, then quartz is definitely for you. However, if you are interested in the tradition of horology, automatic is always going to be your choice.

Our favourite quartz-powered watches at CALIBRE

Rolex Oysterquartz

The Rolex Oysterquartz is a quartz icon. This sophisticated wristwatch features a sleek movement, providing precision and reliability. Its stainless steel case is paired with a smooth sapphire crystal glass face for added durability, while its classic style will never go out of fashion. The Oysterquartz also offers an anti-reflective coating for enhanced visibility no matter what the lighting conditions may be. Read our full guide on Rolex quartz watches.

Timex Harborside Coast

The Timex Harborside Coast is a great divers homage watch. This timepiece is crafted with precise detailing and timeless elegance, giving you a stylish accessory that can take you from work to the weekend. The highly accurate Japanese quartz movement ensures every second is counted, while the durable stainless steel case houses a flexible bracelet for all-day comfort. Even the snootiest of watch collectors can’t fault a solid Timex piece. Read our full guide on mid-range swiss watch brands to find out more about Timex.

Longines Conquest VHP

The Longines Conquest VHP is a modern marvel of quartz craftmanship, capable of keeping time accurately to the second. Its sophisticated design is both elegant and aesthetically pleasing, and this range of models boasts a high-precision quartz movement. This stylish watch ensures reliable and accurate timekeeping for years to come. This is a classic piece to add to your quartz collection. Find out whether a quartz Longines piece is right for you in our guide to analogue and digital watches.