A quartz watch or a mechanical watch - the differences and strengths

Wristwatches can be divided into two groups - mechanical watches and quartz watches. In this article, we'll familiarize you with the differences and strengths of these watch models.

Quartz Watches

Quartz watches are watches that operate on batteries. The first quartz watch was introduced to the market as early as 1969, thanks to the development of microchips, and since then, they have evolved into the accurate accessories they are today. The term "quartz" comes from the way the watch movement operates - time is measured using the vibrations of a quartz crystal. The majority of wristwatches on the market today are quartz watches.

Mechanical Watches

Mechanical watches, also known as automatic watches, captivate with their intricate technology. While quartz watches operate on batteries, a mechanical watch simply needs the motion of the wrist, known as kinetic energy, to function, which winds the mainspring of the mechanism. The mainspring then transfers the motion energy to the movement. A fully wound automatic watch can run for a few days while idle.

One of the unique models of automatic watches are skeleton watch models, such as the HAVU Korpi, where the movement of the mechanism can be admired through the watch face and the sapphire crystal. With the movement constantly visible, it's easy to appreciate the attention to detail, engineering, and aesthetics involved in watchmaking, such as the smooth movement of the second hand. Watches that require precise craftsmanship also mean a higher price than quartz watches.

Quartz Watch or Mechanical Watch?

So, which watch should you choose, quartz or mechanical? If you're a watch enthusiast, we recommend having both types. However, if you have to choose one over the other, consider what you value more - precise timekeeping or the intricacies of the movement and its appearance.

If you wear a watch occasionally - choose a quartz watch. Thanks to the battery, quartz watches keep time accurately even when not worn for extended periods, so they're always accurate. Modern quartz watches are also slightly more accurate than automatic watches, although the difference is minimal.

If you appreciate fine mechanics and wear a wristwatch regularly - choose an automatic watch. Mechanical watches require kinetic energy to operate the mechanism, so regular use is recommended for convenience, to prevent the watch from stopping when left unworn for several days. However, setting the time only takes seconds after the watch stops, and it doesn't require battery replacement. The beauty of mechanical watches lies in their hundreds of tiny parts that work to keep the watch running and the unnecessary need for batteries.

We've designed HAVU watches to fit both everyday and formal occasions, meaning they're suitable for any situation - whether you have a battery-powered or mechanical watch on your wrist. Learn more about our watches on our product pages or explore automatic watches further in our blog.