Watch Knowledge • 6 min read

Mechanical vs Quartz Watches

By World of Watches •

Mechanical vs Quartz Watches

Quartz watches run on a battery and a quartz crystal, so they are very accurate and need little care. Mechanical watches run on a wound spring, either by hand or automatically from your wrist movement. They are less accurate but are loved for their craftsmanship.

How Quartz Watches Work

A battery sends a small current through a quartz crystal, which vibrates at a very steady rate. The watch counts these vibrations to keep time, which makes quartz watches very accurate. The seconds hand usually moves in one-second steps.

How Mechanical Watches Work

A mechanical watch is powered by a coiled mainspring. A hand-wound watch is wound with the crown, while an automatic watch has a rotor that winds the spring as you move your wrist. The seconds hand usually sweeps smoothly.

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Side By Side

  • Accuracy: Quartz is more accurate. Small daily variation is normal for mechanical watches.
  • Power: Quartz uses a battery. Mechanical uses a wound spring.
  • Maintenance: Quartz needs a battery change from time to time. Mechanical watches need occasional servicing.
  • Feel: Mechanical watches are valued for craftsmanship and the smooth sweep of the hand.
  • Convenience: Quartz keeps running when you leave it in a drawer. An automatic stops if it is not worn.

Which Should You Choose?

  • Choose quartz if: You want accuracy, convenience and a watch you can pick up any time.
  • Choose mechanical if: You enjoy traditional watchmaking and wear your watch most days.
  • Consider solar: Light-powered watches charge from light and rarely need a battery change.

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Need help choosing?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is quartz better than mechanical?expand_more
Neither is better for everyone. Quartz is more accurate and easier to own. Mechanical watches are valued for craftsmanship.
Do automatic watches need batteries?expand_more
No. Automatic watches are mechanical and wind from the movement of your wrist.
How can I tell if my watch is quartz or automatic?expand_more
Many automatic watches say "Automatic" on the dial, and their seconds hand sweeps smoothly. Quartz seconds hands usually tick once per second.
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