Watch Parts and Functions
Each part of a watch has a specific role, supporting the watch's functions. This section provides a detailed explanation of the names and functions of the various parts of a typical wristwatch.
Case
This is the main body that protects the movement (mechanical part). Materials vary, including stainless steel, titanium, and ceramic. Some cases offer water resistance and shock resistance.
Bezel
This is the outer ring of the case, which secures the crystal. A rotating bezel can have various functions, such as measuring elapsed time.
Crystal
A transparent cover that protects the dial. Sapphire crystal and mineral glass are common.
Dial
The part that displays the time. Time is indicated by numbers, bars, or Roman numerals. Colors and designs vary widely.
Indices
Markings on the dial that indicate the time. Numbers, bars, Roman numerals, or gemstones may be used.
Hands
The hands that indicate the time. A typical watch has three hands: an hour hand, a minute hand, and a second hand.
Crown
A knob used to set the watch (e.g., adjust time, date). A screw-down crown ensures high water resistance.
Lugs
Protruding parts to which the strap (band) is attached.
Movement
The heart of the watch, providing the power to run it. Various types include automatic, hand-wound, solar, and quartz.
Strap (Band)
The part that secures the watch to the wrist. Available in various materials such as leather, stainless steel, titanium, and rubber.
Push buttons
Buttons used to operate functions such as a chronograph.
Calendar
A function that displays the date. Display methods vary, such as day only, month and day, or day of the week.
Power Reserve Indicator
A function that displays the remaining running time for solar or mechanical watches.
Time Display
The most basic function, displaying hours, minutes, and seconds.
Date Display
A type of calendar function that displays the date.
Day of the Week Display
A type of calendar function that displays the day of the week.
Chronograph
A stopwatch function. It can start, stop, and reset measurements.
Tachymeter
A function to measure speed. It can measure distance per unit of time.
Telemeter
A function that measures distance using the speed of sound. It can measure the distance to lightning, for example.
Pulsometer
A function that measures heart rate. It can measure heart rate during exercise.
GMT Function
A function that displays two different times simultaneously. Useful for international travel.
Dual Time
Similar to the GMT function, it displays two times, but the display method may differ.
Perpetual Calendar
A calendar function that automatically handles complex date calculations, including leap years.
Power Reserve Indicator
A function that displays the remaining running time of the mainspring in mechanical watches.
Moon Phase
A function that displays the phases of the moon.
Tide Graph
A function that displays the ebb and flow of tides. Primarily for marine sports enthusiasts.
Compass
A function that measures direction. Often found in outdoor watches.
Altimeter
A function that measures altitude. Often found in mountaineering watches.
Water Resistance
A function that indicates how many meters underwater the watch can withstand.
Shock Resistance
A function that protects the movement from impacts.
Anti-magnetic Function
A function that makes the watch less susceptible to magnetic fields.