Understanding Watch Movements

Quartz vs Mechanical

At Bernhardt Watch Company, we take pride in offering a diverse range of timepieces to cater to the preferences of our customers. Two primary categories of watch movements we utilize are quartz and mechanical. In this guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of these movements, their differences, and what sets Bernhardt watches apart.

Quartz Movements: Precision in Every Tick

Quartz movements power our Field Diver, and are well-known for their precision and reliability. Here's what you need to know:

  • How They Work: Quartz watches use a battery to send an electrical current through a small quartz crystal, which vibrates at a consistent frequency. These vibrations are then translated into precise timekeeping.

  • Accuracy: Quartz watches are highly accurate, often losing or gaining just a few seconds per month. Their reliability makes them an excellent choice for those who require precise timekeeping.

  • Low Maintenance: One of the key advantages of quartz watches is their low maintenance. The battery typically lasts for several years, and you don't need to wind them regularly.

Mechanical Movements: The Art of Traditional Watchmaking

Our mechanical watches showcase the craftsmanship and dedication to the art of watchmaking. The two variants of mechanical movements are automatic and manual wind. Though we've offered manual wind options in the past, all of the mechanical watches in our current product line are powered by automatic movements.

Automatic Movements: A Symphony of Gears and Springs

  • How They Work: Automatic movements are also known as self-winding movements. They utilize the kinetic energy generated by the wearer's wrist movements to power the watch. This energy winds the mainspring via the oscillation of the rotor, allowing the watch to function without a battery.

  • Characteristics: Automatic watches are appreciated for their smooth, sweeping second hands and their engineering feat, utilizing more than a hundred precision-cut components all working together to drive timekeeping.

  • Maintenance: Automatic watches are fairly low maintenance, but do require more attention than their quartz counterparts. They require regular wear or placement on a watch winder to keep them running, and need to be serviced every 5-10 years to ensure accurate timekeeping.

Manual Wind Movements: A Connection to Tradition

  • How They Work: Manual wind movements, as the name suggests, require manual winding by turning the crown. This traditional approach allows the wearer to engage with the watch in a unique way.

  • Characteristics: Manual wind watches are often associated with timeless elegance and the satisfaction of winding the watch each day. A nod to tradition, these movements are still produced today and are most often found in formal dress watches.

Bernhardt Watch Movements: Precision Meets Craftsmanship

At Bernhardt Watch Company, we're dedicated to providing timepieces that pack durability and value. Our quartz model, the Field Diver, features the Ronda Swiss Quartz movement. Our automatic models utilize a variety of movements, including the renowned ETA 2836, the Miyota 8215, and the Miyota 9015. These mechanical movements are chosen for their exceptional performance and longevity.

What's Best For Me?!

In the world of horology, the choice between quartz and mechanical watches, as well as between automatic and manual wind movements, is a matter of personal preference. Whether you prioritize precision, tradition, or the artistry of watchmaking, Bernhardt Watch Company has the perfect timepiece to meet your needs. 

If you have any questions or need further assistance in selecting the ideal watch for you, please don't hesitate to contact our team. We're here to guide you on your journey to owning a Bernhardt Watch that reflects your style and needs!