What is a skeleton watch?

On a skeleton watch, the movement mechanism, which is normally hidden in the watch case, is fully or partially visible. This type of timepiece has been around since the 18th century and is still made today, in both classic and modern styles. 

A real skeleton watch is a watch of which all moving parts are visible because the front of the watch does not contain a dial and the back is also transparent. 
There are also so named 'open heart' watches available that contain a (small) window in the dial, through which part of the movement is visible. Usually it is a special part that has been made visible, such as a tourbillion.

Although the movement is visible, watches with a transparent back only are not called skeletons.

Beautifully crafted skeleton movement

True "skeletonization" involves cutting off non-essential metal parts of the mechanism, leaving only a functional, bare "skeleton" of the movement. Often the remaining parts are polished and decorated with ornate engravings. Every technique requires the use of special tools and skills that have an age-old tradition. With a skeleton watch you really own a special piece of art.

Traditional or Modern 

Because Skeleton watches have been around for so long and are made using tried and tested methods, the designs are often traditional and stylish. But modern watches are increasingly being offered in a transparent or open heart version. 

Usually these skeleton watches are automatic or handwinders, but there are also quartz skeleton watches available for every budget.