Watch Glossary
1356 horological terms explained · 1/2
Dial scale measuring speed based on distance traveled, primarily used on racing chronographs.
Scale on bezel used to measure speed based on distance traveled.
Graduated scale measuring speed based on distance and time elapsed.
Simple pin-style buckle that fastens through a leather or fabric strap.
Cartier's rectangular dress watch inspired by military tanks, since 1917
Rectangular case design inspired by military tanks, featuring distinctive curved sides and lugs.
Gemstone setting that decreases in width from stone to mounting base.
The number of tapisserie grid cells per millimeter of dial surface.
Tolerance specification for horizontal-vertical line intersections in tapisserie patterns.
Consistency of width in tapisserie pattern lines across entire dial.
Perfect 90-degree crossing angle requirement between tapisserie horizontal and vertical lines.
Woven textile-inspired dial finish with interlocking geometric lines creating fabric-like appearance.
Depth variation in woven pattern creating natural light-and-shadow visual effect.
Smaller tapisserie-finished subsidiary dial used in chronograph or calendar complications.
Center reference line maintaining geometric balance of woven pattern across dial face.
The spacing ratio between horizontal and vertical lines in tapisserie dial patterns.
Scale calculating distance based on time delay between light and sound
Bezel with telemeter scale measuring distance based on sound and light propagation differences
Scale calculating distance based on sound propagation and light timing.
Mechanism to counteract effects of temperature changes on timekeeping accuracy
Controlled heating and cooling of steel to achieve desired hardness and resilience properties.
Fine-tuning of mechanical tensions in watch movement for optimal performance
Modern technique where gemstone appears suspended between two metal bands.
Standardized procedures by COSC for evaluating chronometer precision and reliability
Vintage dial featuring printed brand or model information; presence affects collector desirability.
Light reflection differential between raised pattern elements and base dial surface.
Conservation technique for refinishing worn pattern details on vintage dial surfaces.
Electronic adjustment system maintaining quartz accuracy across temperature variations
Advanced quartz movement with temperature compensation for superior chronometric stability.
Integrated scale displaying ambient temperature, typically placed on the dial edge or subsidiary dial.
Intermediate wheel in gear train that transfers power between barrel and center wheel
Case construction with separate middle, caseback, and crystal components assembled together.
Minute repeater chiming hours, quarter hours, and minutes when respective pushers are activated individually.
Design featuring three principal gemstones, often representing past, present, future.
Displays tidal information based on lunar cycles, useful for maritime and sailing activities.
Dial with distinctive turquoise/Tiffany blue color, iconic Rolex collectible variant.
Tool that analyzes watch beat, amplitude, and rate in real-time.
Maximum allowed variation in seconds per day certified by COSC standards
Fixed outer bezel marking specific time intervals for dive planning.
Automatic time adjustment system utilizing GNSS and network data for accuracy across regions
Electronic device that measures watch rate and performance parameters.
Reference standard component used to verify accuracy and sensitivity of timing machine sensors.
Digital circuit in timing machines measuring escapement frequency in oscillations per hour with precision.
Multiple electromagnetic or optical sensors in timing machines that detect and measure balance wheel vibrations.
Lightweight, hypoallergenic metal alloy offering excellent strength and corrosion resistance
Lightweight metal bracelet, superior strength-to-weight ratio, hypoallergenic
Medical-grade titanium alloy offering superior strength-to-weight ratio and hypoallergenic properties.
Barrel-shaped case wider at the center and tapered at the lugs, resembling a wine barrel.
Robust, functional watch designed for professional or demanding work conditions
Shape of gear teeth affecting smoothness and efficiency of power transmission
Buffed leather layer below full-grain, smooth finish, moderate durability
Mechanism encasing the balance wheel assembly in rotating cage to counteract gravity effects.
Dial design between major production eras, combining features of both generations.
Three gasket seals providing maximum water protection on diver's watches.
Rolex's triple waterproofing crown system for deep diving watches
Radioactive luminous material used in watch dials from 1960s-1990s, safer than radium
Gradual reduction in luminescence brightness of tritium-based watch dials at approximately 5.5% per year
Dial coated with tritium, a radioactive hydrogen isotope providing continuous glow without light exposure
Radioactive luminous material used in vintage watches, glows without recharging.
Sealed glass or metal tube filled with tritium gas used for constant watch dial luminescence