⚙️ 1. Core Mechanism & Power Source
⚙️
- Quartz Movement:
Powered by a battery that sends an electrical current through a quartz crystal (SiO₂), causing it to vibrate at 32,768 Hz . These vibrations are converted into precise electrical pulses by an integrated circuit, driving a motor that moves the hands. The second hand exhibits a distinct “tick-tick” motion (jumping seconds) or silent sweep (sweeping seconds) . - Mechanical Movement:
Relies on a coiled mainspring storing kinetic energy. When wound (manually or via automatic rotor), the spring unwinds to drive gears. The escapement mechanism regulates energy release, resulting in a smooth, sweeping motion (typically 6–8 ticks/second) .
⏱️ 2. Accuracy & Precision
- Quartz:
Highly accurate (±15 seconds/month) due to the quartz crystal’s stable frequency . - Mechanical:
Prone to environmental interference (e.g., temperature, gravity), with daily errors of ±5–10 seconds (±30–60 seconds/month). High-end chronometer certifications (e.g., COSC) reduce this to −4/+6 seconds/day .
🔧 3. Maintenance & Longevity
- Quartz:
Low maintenance; battery replacement every 2–5 years. Circuit boards may degrade over 10–20 years, limiting lifespan . - Mechanical:
Requires servicing every 3–5 years (cost:200–500) to lubricate gears and prevent wear. With proper care, it can last centuries (e.g., vintage heirlooms) .
💰 4. Cost & Craftsmanship
- Quartz:
Mass-produced with <100 components, using cost-effective materials (e.g., plastic, basic metals). Prices range from 20–500 . - Mechanical:
50–300+ hand-finished parts (e.g., screws, jewels), demanding skilled craftsmanship. Entry-level models start at 500**, rising to **100,000+ for complications .
🛡️ 5. Durability & Sensitivity
- Quartz:
Resilient to shocks/magnetism due to simpler construction. Ideal for sports/active use . - Mechanical:
Sensitive to impacts, magnetic fields, and positional changes. Requires careful handling .
🎨 6. Cultural & Aesthetic Value
- Quartz:
Prioritizes functionality and accessibility. Associated with modern efficiency . - Mechanical:
Symbolizes horological artistry and heritage. Valued for intricate movements visible through exhibition casebacks .
📊 Summary Table: Key Differences
| Feature | Quartz Movement | Mechanical Movement |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Battery | Mainspring (manual/automatic) |
| Accuracy | ±15 seconds/month | ±5–10 seconds/day |
| Second Hand | Tick or silent sweep | Smooth sweep (6–8 Hz) |
| Lifespan | 10–20 years | 100+ years (with servicing) |
| Maintenance | Battery replacement (5–20) | Full servicing (200–500) |
| Typical Price | 20–500 | 500–100,000+ |
| Best For | Daily wear, sports, budget buyers | Collectors, heirlooms, craftsmanship |
💡 Practical Recommendation
- Price: In the case of the same brand and style, the price of quartz watches is usually lower than that of mechanical watches, because the manufacturing cost of quartz machines is relatively low. At present, most of the movements used in replica watches come from China’s production of movements, and their stability is no less than that of Swiss movements.
- – For example, Dandong 3135, and Seagull 2824 movements are tested in the market, with low return rates and high accuracy, which are very good substitutes.
- – Appearance feeling: quartz watches are usually thinner and simpler, and mechanical watches because of their complex mechanical structure, and high-end replica watches even the mechanical back is also engraved, and strive to achieve the appearance of 1:1 similarity with the genuine movement, and a lot of transparent shells installed after the movement, very much a mechanical sense of aesthetics, which is a man’s romance!
