Watch Glossary
1356 horological terms explained · 2/2
Duration the watch continues running after being fully wound without additional energy input.
Display showing remaining energy stored in the mainspring, indicating when rewinding is necessary.
Second-hand timepiece sold by previous owner; may include warranty or guarantee
Fine-tuning of hairspring length to achieve desired rate.
Journalism calculation dividing visual impact by case diameter for proportionality analysis.
Journalism metric comparing visual impact on wrist against retail cost.
Iconic three-piece link design with solid center links, classic luxury appearance
Hardened steel plate in case presses that distributes uniform pressure across watch case components.
Testing watch case integrity under controlled water pressure conditions
Manufacturing process verifying watch integrity at rated depth specifications.
Hour markers screen-printed or applied to dial surface in single plane dimension
Year watch was manufactured, determined from serial number or case back markings
Radioactive element formerly used in watch lume, less hazardous than radium but still radioactive
Traditional method securing gemstones using metal fingers extending from bezel base.
Critical evaluation of case diameter to lug-to-lug ratio for visual harmony on wrist.
Custom operating system architecture optimized for minimal power consumption and haptic response
Documented history of watch ownership and service, increases value and authenticity
Documented ownership history from manufacture through current owner.
Bezel with graduated scale for measuring heart rate by counting pulses over time interval
Scale for measuring heart rate by counting pulse beats
Scale used with chronograph to measure heart rate from pulse beats.
Chronograph pusher requiring repeated activation; pre-1970s design characteristic.
Smartwatch operating system architecture managing app alerts and message delivery
Buttons on the case side used to operate chronographs and other functions.
Seals around chronograph pushers to maintain water resistance.
Physical Vapor Deposition; durable coating applied to steel for black or colored finish
Exotic snake leather with distinctive scale pattern, lightweight and supple