Watch Glossary
1356 horological terms explained · 2/2
Specialized bezel with 24-hour markings for tracking multiple time zones.
Gemstone held by tiny metal grains raised from base metal surface.
Central gemstone surrounded by smaller diamonds in concentric ring arrangement.
One-way valve on the case allowing pressurized gas release during decompression.
Gas escape valve used in dive watches to release helium trapped during saturation diving decompression
Abbreviation for helium escape valve; critical for deep saturation diving operations.
Vintage diving watch case design featuring holes drilled in case back for rapid decompression.
Case made with hollow sections inside the caseband to reduce weight while maintaining durability.
Bracelet design where the end links flow seamlessly from the lugs without separate attachment.
Advanced gem-setting technique where support structure remains hidden beneath gemstones.
Crown positioned at 9 o'clock instead of standard 3 o'clock for left-handed watch operation.
Polishing and erosion visible on case lugs from bracelet friction over time.
Space between the lugs where the strap or bracelet attaches.
Measurement between the inner edges of the lugs, determining strap and bracelet fit on the wrist.
Projections on the case that hold the strap or bracelet.
Design architecture integrating traditional watch complications with electronic displays
Protective crown housing exceeding standard military specifications to prevent accidental winding.
Decorative beaded metal edge surrounding gem setting, adds visual definition.
Prescribed hardness levels for case metal required under military watch contracts.
Enhanced case sealing technology required by MIL-W specifications achieving 300m+ water resistance.
Single-piece case construction where the entire case is machined from one solid block of material.
Case lug design allowing rapid field replacement of watch band using standard NATO strap system.
Eight-sided case shape providing a geometric, distinctive appearance with flat edges and corners.
Technique covering a surface densely with small diamonds or gemstones, minimizing visible metal.
Case finish with a mirror-like reflective surface achieved through grinding and buffing.
Traditional method securing gemstones using metal fingers extending from bezel base.
Buttons on the case side used to operate chronographs and other functions.
Seals around chronograph pushers to maintain water resistance.
Four-sided case with right angles and straight edges, elongated horizontally or vertically.
Bezel professionally repolished, reducing originality grade and collector value.
Technique where metal beneath gemstone curves upward supporting stone edges.
Case design sealing crystal, case, and back for exceptional water resistance.
Proprietary triple-sealed crown mechanism in Caliber 3135 watches, ensuring exceptional water resistance integrity.
Bezel that rotates in one or both directions for timing purposes.
Case design with applied dial elements creating a layered appearance, often seen in military watches.
Caseback sealed with threads that screw onto the case middle, improving water resistance.
Crown that screws onto the case threads for enhanced water resistance.
Chronograph button secured with a screw for enhanced durability.
Engraved caseback featuring broad arrow, service number, issuance year, and soldier identification.
Rotating bezel on military-issue watches typically featuring elapsed-time scale for field operations.
Case construction where the caseband is machined entirely from solid metal, no hollow sections.
Case design featuring distinct stepped or tiered levels on the sides, creating dimensional appearance.
Scale on bezel used to measure speed based on distance traveled.
Rectangular case design inspired by military tanks, featuring distinctive curved sides and lugs.
Gemstone setting that decreases in width from stone to mounting base.
Modern technique where gemstone appears suspended between two metal bands.
Case construction with separate middle, caseback, and crystal components assembled together.
Barrel-shaped case wider at the center and tapered at the lugs, resembling a wine barrel.
Three gasket seals providing maximum water protection on diver's watches.
Case design consisting of a case middle and caseback, with the crystal fitted into the middle.
Bezel rotating only counterclockwise to prevent accidental advancement.
Case's ability to withstand water exposure, measured in meters or ATM.