A bit of horology terminology with a touch of history
So what is the difference between Chronograph and Chronometer?
Chronograph is derived from the Greek words “chronos” and “graph”, which means “time” and “chart”. In Greek mythology, Chronos is a god and is also known as the personification of time. Interestingly, his consort (wife) is Ananke is known as the personification of destiny or fate.
A chronograph is a watch or timepiece with functions as a timekeeper and as a stopwatch as well. To put it simply, it can measure time in more ways than one. Chronograph is also mostly mistaken with the term Chronometer because in some cases the latter designation is for a chronograph watch that has pass strict precision test certification from an official Swiss institute. Only then, a chronograph could be called a chronometer.
Usually, you can see the inscription “Officially Certified Chronometer” on the dial. A Chronograph dial has several sub-dials with a scale – which the measurement can be read. Second hand can be started and stopped without interfering with the time.
What is a Chronograph Watch?
Appearing on the market in 1910s, the chronograph has been positively changed to keep up with higher needs and demands of users. At the first time, it plays the simple task to compare the speed of 2 horse races. The tool takes advantage of pen to create round dial on the watch surface. It works based on the movements of arms. Then, you don’t have to replace battery when necessary. Over time, the watch is designed to be more modern and equip multi-functional tasks. Most of them come with 4 dials for specific roles. To measure speed and time, a watch also features the effective telemeter. It is effectively used in sport thanks to the water resistant proof. Then, it is obvious that using chronograph is a good way to enjoy the human breakthrough.
Pocket chronograph became popular sometime before the mid 19th Century. At the beginning of the 20th Century, chronographs were used by the military, scientists and sporting establishments. They were essential to measure time events accurately. Today, wearing a chronograph watch is a matter of fashion, rather than practicality. The appeal of the chronograph is because of its adventurous, glamorous and exciting image – it is a watch that actors and actresses, rich and famous, racing drivers, explorers, mariners, aviators and astronauts wear. A certified chronograph or chronometer is generally more valuable than a normal wristwatch due to the craftsmanship and complication of manufacture. Maintenance and repair are quite costly too. The brand of the watch also plays a part on the value as well.
Terms What’s the complication?
Here is some explanation on the horological terms used in articles related to chronographs and chronometers on this site. The list is not exhaustive and is updated regularly.
Complication(s) – A special feature(s) in a watch that complicates the design of the watch movement to be more complicated.
Horology – An art or science of measuring time. A person engaged in horology is called a horologist.