What is the difference between an automatic watch and autoquartz?

Autoquartz watches contain a hybrid movement that winds itself - just like an ordinary automatic watch - by the movements of its wearer, but with a quartz time mechanism. This is how an autoquartz combines the best of both worlds: precision and durability.

Autoquartz or Kinetic?

The terms Autoquartz and Kinetic are used interchangeably. However, this is not entirely correct. Autoquartz is the collective name for all watches that contain this hybrid movement. Kinetic is the brand name used for Seiko autoquartz watches. Seiko is the inventor of this type of movement, which can be compared to Hoover; This name is often used to indicate a vacuum cleaner, but it is actually a brand name.

How does a Kinetic watch work?

The scientific definition of kinetic (motion) energy is "The energy of an object that it possesses by its own motion". So you could almost say that a mechanical automatic watch is also a kinetic watch. But the difference lies in the fact that with autoquartz, kinetic energy is converted into electricity, and with an automatic watch a mechanical spring is wound.

In an auto quartz watch, the kinetic energy that - just like an automatic mechanical watch - is generated by the movement of the rotor, is converted and stored in a capacitor.

The energy stored in the capacitor then drives a quartz clockwork. 

What are the pros and cons of an autoquartz watch?

Because a Kinetic watch combines the advantages of a quartz and automatic watch, it is just as accurate as a quartz watch. It is also energy efficient and does not require a battery. Because the capacitor stores the kinetic energy - sometimes for years - autoquartz watches (depending on the movement used) rarely need to be charged. Even if the watch has not been worn for a long time. The use of a watch winder as with normal automatic watches is therefore not necessary.

To be fair, the capacitor (also called capacitor), although it lasts a long time and can be recharged thousands of times, should be recalibrated or replaced by a watchmaker once every ten years. But, with this small service you do have a watch that will last a very long time.

Another minor drawback is the size. Due to the combination of quartz and mechanism, this type of timepiece is relatively thick, comparable to an ordinary automatic watch. On the other hand, you wear a very special piece of technology on your wrist.

Which brands of autoquartz watches are out there?

Since Seiko launched the first autoquartz watches on the market in 1988, the brand has been leading in this technology. Most autoquartz watches that are produced therefore have a Seiko movement. 

Swiss watch manufacturer ETA has also produced various auto quartz timepieces in the past. These movements were mainly used in brands of the Swatch Group, such as in the legendary Tissot PRC200 line.

Why choose a Seiko Kinetic watch?

A Seiko Kinetic watch is the perfect choice for the automatic watch enthusiast who likes to have the smallest possible deviation in time display. It's also nice that with a kinetic watch you don't have to think about whether it needs to be recharged. And, a kinetic watch is a sustainable choice; It lasts a long time and does not contain an environmentally unfriendly battery.