Quartz or automatic? The pros and cons explained

Before the 1960s, all watches had a mechanical movement. With the introduction of electronic quartz movements began a difficult time for the traditional Swiss watch industry. Because at that time, Japanese quartz watches were cheaper, more accurate and faster to produce than mechanical timepieces. Yet there are still many enthusiasts of mechanical watches who consciously choose this beautiful piece of watch technology. But what are the advantages and disadvantages of an automatic timepiece compared to quartz?

Automatic and quartz; what are the differences?

There are two different types of mechanical movements: manual winding and automatic. With hand-wound watches, a spring is tensioned by turning the crown, which when it unwinds, activates the watch mechanism. When the spring is completely 'relaxed', the watch will stop running and you will have to wind it again. 

Most mechanical watches that are produced today have an automatic movement, so you don't have to think about it. 

With automatic watches, the movement contains a counterweight - the rotor - that rotates through the movements of the wearer and thus automatically winds the spring. Hence the name of this type of movement. When the spring is fully wound, the watch (depending on the movement) will run for about 24 - 72 hours without having to be rewound. As long as the watch is worn regularly, the watch will continue to work. If you do not wear the watch for a long time, it is advisable to purchase a watch winder. This device moves the watch continuously so that the movement always runs smoothly and requires less maintenance.

Many automatic watches feature a power reserve indicator on the dial. Often a pointer indicating the number of running hours the watch has left.

If you do not wear the watch for a longer period of time, it is advisable to purchase a watch winder. This device continuously moves the watch so that the movement always runs smoothly and requires less maintenance.

How does a quartz watch work?

The movement of a quartz watch is powered by a battery, which sends an electrical signal through a small quartz crystal embedded in the circuitry. When electricity passes through a quartz crystal, it oscillates (vibrates) at a near-perfect constant frequency of 32,768 times per second. The constancy of these vibrations is the basis for the clockwork mechanism, which makes it very accurate. 

Because a quartz movement contains fewer mechanical parts, the watch also requires little maintenance. Once every 2-3 years (depending on use), the battery should be replaced and the watch checked for water resistance.

Quartz watches, reliable, low maintenance and versatile

When Seiko introduced the first mass-produced electronic quartz watch - the Astron - in 1969, it was a true revolution. From that moment on, watches became more reliable, more accurate, and more versatile. Because a quartz movement contains fewer mechanical parts, it is a lot thinner and therefore lighter in weight.

The watch was no longer just an instrument to read the time, it became a fashion item.

When chip technology was also added to watches, the possibilities became limitless. Both analog and digital quartz watches can contain a multitude of functions that are not possible with a traditional mechanical timepiece. And all that for a usually very affordable price.

Yet today there are also very luxurious (solar) quartz watches on the market that are distinguished by the quality of materials, superior finish and advanced technology

Automatic watches: traditional craftsmanship and durable

Why would you choose an automatic watch for all those advantages of quartz? That is partly a matter of taste, because automatic watches have their own unique properties.

Automatic timepieces were made as early as the eighteenth century, but the modern automatic transmission really took off with the introduction of the Rolex Oyster perpetual in 1930. Since then, automatic timepieces have been improved and refined and are available in all price ranges. From the excellent and affordable Seiko 5 watches to the complicated handmade Masterpiece watches from Maurice Lacroix. What all these watches have in common is that seeing the movement in operation is a feast for the eyes. It is not without reason that many automatic watches have a transparent case back so you can admire the mechanics at work.

The design of automatic watches is generally a bit more traditional than quartz watches. This makes these watches timeless and fashion-resistant. They are sometimes a bit less accurate than quartz watches, but then you are talking about a deviation of at most a few minutes per month. Something that is easy to correct manually. Certainly with the more expensive (Swiss) timepieces, the deviation will be minimal and comparable to quartz.

Automatic watches also need maintenance from the watchmaker from time to time (about once every five years). But if you make sure the watch gets the love it deserves, an automatic watch can last a lifetime. As a result, and because no use is made of polluting disposable batteries, an automatic watch is also a sustainable choice. It is well worth the investment!

There are also automatic watches that contain a rechargeable battery available. These watches combine the properties of both quartz and automatic watches; These are called autoquartz and kinetic watches. 

Quartz or automatic? The pros and cons at a glance

The choice for a quartz or automatic watch is very personal. Whether you prefer the convenience of a quartz or fall in love with the aesthetics of an automatic's 'floating' second hand. Both types of watches have their own qualities.

In our shop you will find a wide range of both quartz watches and automatic watches. Use our handy search filters to find your favourite watch. Are you stuck? Our customer service colleagues are available to help you make your choice.