What is a Chronograph and How Does it Work?
If you're a watch enthusiast, you've likely heard the term "chronograph" thrown around before. But what exactly is a chronograph, and how does it work? At Wrist Aficionado, we have a wide selection of chronograph watches available for purchase at our locations in New York, Miami, and Beverly Hills. Keep reading to learn more about this popular feature in watches.
A chronograph is a type of watch with a stopwatch function built into it. It allows you to measure elapsed time, in addition to telling the time like a regular watch. Chronographs can come in many different styles, from sporty and functional to elegant and dressy.
Most chronograph watches have two or three subdials on the face, in addition to the main hour and minute hands. These subdials are used to track elapsed time. The most common layout for a chronograph watch is to have a small seconds subdial at the 9 o'clock position, a minutes subdial at the 12 o'clock position, and an hours subdial at the 6 o'clock position. Some chronographs also have a date display.
To use a chronograph, you'll need to start and stop the stopwatch function using the buttons on the side of the watch. These buttons are often referred to as the "pushers." On most chronograph watches, the top pusher is used to start and stop the stopwatch, while the bottom pusher is used to reset the stopwatch back to zero.
In addition to measuring elapsed time, some chronographs also have a tachymeter function. This is a scale on the outer rim of the watch face that allows you to measure speed based on time traveled. To use the tachymeter, you'll need to start the stopwatch when you pass a known distance (like a mile marker), and then stop it when you reach the next known distance. The tachymeter will then give you a speed reading based on the time it took you to travel that distance.
Chronographs can be mechanical or quartz. Mechanical chronographs have a movement that is powered by a wound spring, which needs to be manually wound up to keep the watch running. Quartz chronographs, on the other hand, are powered by a battery and use an electronic oscillator to keep time. Both types of chronographs have their own unique features and advantages, so it's up to personal preference which type you prefer.
At Wrist Aficionado, we have a great selection of chronograph watches available for purchase. Whether you're looking for a sporty, functional watch or a more elegant, dressy timepiece, we have something to suit your taste. Stop by one of our locations in New York, Miami, or Beverly Hills to see our selection in person and find the perfect chronograph watch for you.