Mechanical Wristwatches

Shock resistance. Wristwatches are prone to strong blows. That is why, as from about 1930, the delicate pivots of the balance staff were placed in spring-mounted jewel bearings. For even better protection, the movements were mounted so as to assure their elasticity within the case.

Water resistance. The Rolex Oyster, the first water-resistant wristwatch for everyday use, came out in 1926. Special wristwatches for divers were developed during the Second World War.

Automatic winding. It is possible to use the movements of one’s arm for the purpose of winding a watch movement. The first model suited for practical use was made by John Harwood and came onto the market in 1929.

Additional functions. Apart from those telling the time of day, we find wristwatches that  provide other functions as well: Alarm, date, additional time zones, short time intervals (chronographs). There are also wristwatches with special indications for pilots, scuba divers, etc. 

Durability and Precision. Every mechanical watch needs to be taken care of. The better the material and workmanship, the longer a movement lasts. Synthetic oils last for many years; new escapements even extend the interval for inspections up to ten years.