Terminology and history of the chronograph
Chronographs are sometimes called timers or stopwatches, but these are subconscious terms. Timers and counters only measure time without showing time. The terms chronograph and chronometer are sometimes used interchangeably, but the two terms do not have the same meaning.
A chronometer is a watch whose dial confirms its accuracy. For example, chromosomes are produced and certified by Swiss manufacturers, or COSC chronometers are tested and certified by an official institution. The Glashütte observatory performs the same function in Germany. Some manufacturers, such as Omega and Rolex, also carry out their own tests and certifications.
The word “chronograph” actually means “periodic”. The first chronograph was released in the 19th century. It is said that King Louis XVIII. Trying to plan horse racing. The first chronograph was large enough in a box, but in the 20th century, chronographs were small enough to fit in a watch.
The history of the chronograph has links to many professions such as doctors, soldiers and pilots. Chronograph manufacturer Hamilton began producing American railway pocket watches and developed a Swiss company that produced chronographs for the British Royal Air Force. Mechanical chronograph watches are still in production today and can be purchased in Denver, CO.
Chronograph function:
Chronograph watches record seconds, minutes, and hours. Unusually complex patterns can divide seconds into even small units, covering intervals of up to a tenth of a second. The ability to measure such small intervals in small watches is provided by highly sophisticated mechanisms. Of course, we now have digital devices that record time intervals at much smaller intervals. Most digital devices are controlled by pressing a button.
That technology is valuable and arguably more useful for today’s businesses, but the little beats, gears, and pants associated with mechanical chronographs are an engineering masterpiece. The mechanical chronograph is independent of electricity and batteries, and the probability that the digital timer will work well is still not very high in a century.
Mechanical chronographs will work on antique watches as long as they are maintained and kept in good condition. Repairing these devices is not an amateur job. If you have any obvious or obvious problems with the chronograph, contact your service representative. Most watch repair professionals offer maintenance services to keep the watch running. If you are looking for a new watch or a particular type of watch or chronograph, you will find many items from Matheu’s Fine Watches & Jewelry.
Integrated chronograph
The integrated chronograph model includes an additional mechanism for measuring the time of the watch’s key bridges. The hour recording mechanism is located on or near the dial. Many built-in chronograph mechanisms include column wheels and horizontal clutch systems.
Modular chronographs
The modular chronograph mechanism has a base plate and bridges mounted on the main watch without combining any functions. Modular chromatographic repair is simplified because the chronograph mechanism is completely separate from the watch.
Split-second chronograph
The second chronograph, also known as the French term rattrapante, records two periods independently of each other. In a way, you can think of the rattrapante as two chronographs combined into one mechanism. There are two control units that operate the second pointer independently of each other. Observers spend a lot of time learning rattrapante systems so they can effectively maintain and repair these complex mechanisms.
Modern chronograph movements
The two most popular chronograph movements today are the spur gear and the shift lever. The column wheel movements include a small protruding mechanism that rotates repeatedly each time the pusher is pressed. To activate the functions, a mechanical finger is inserted between the teeth of the ring gear. Vintage watches and high-quality watches are often mainstays.
The pulleys are based on a very precise construction. Improving your watch requires agility and a high level of concentration, as the slightest mistake will prevent it from functioning properly. Observers and even casual enthusiasts often prefer watches with columnar movements due to their smooth articulation and high level of workmanship.
Backstage handles are easier to make. In addition, they are more resistant to damage and require less care and precision than building the column wheel. When pressing the crusher by moving the lever behind the plate, a small heart-shaped cam, eg. behind the plate, in a back and forth movement the chronograph starts, stops, and continues.
The coulisse lever requires more pressure to function. Although the complex movements of the handle are not as precise and discreet as column wheels, they are complex mechanisms that watchmakers must manipulate for maintenance and repair.
Automatic movements
Chronograph mechanisms had to be wound manually until 1969. Automatic chronograph movements use a micro-rotor, a small oscillating mass. The second type of automatic chronograph uses a full-size spiral rotor. Most chronographs produced since 1969 are automatic chronographs, but portable chronographs are still available and some users prefer pendulum versions and subsequent communication with their watches. Observers must be familiar with the different types of watches.
