Understanding Watch Movements: The Difference Between Quartz, Automatic, and Solar Powered
When exploring timepieces at House of Watches, understanding what powers them—the movement—is the first step toward choosing a watch that truly suits your lifestyle and preferences.
What Is a Watch Movement?
In simple terms, the movement, or calibre, is the engine that powers a watch. It’s the internal mechanism responsible for keeping time, driving functions like the date or chronograph, and giving the watch its heartbeat. Think of it as the heart of your timepiece. There are three main types of movements: Quartz, Automatic, and Solar. Let’s take a closer look at each.
Quartz Movement: Reliable Precision
A quartz movement is powered by a battery that sends electricity through a tiny quartz crystal. The vibrations are converted into electrical pulses that move the watch hands or digital display.
Quartz watches are generally more affordable and suitable for everyday wear and sports. They are known for their accuracy, reliability, and low maintenance, making them one of the most popular watch types worldwide.
Automatic Movement: Convenience Meets Craft
An automatic watch, also known as a self-winding watch, winds itself using the natural motion of your wrist. It does not need a battery and instead uses intricate parts to keep time.
Automatic watches have a power reserve, meaning they continue to run for a length of time if not worn. If not worn regularly, the watch may stop and need to be manually wound.
Collectors and enthusiasts often favour automatic watches for their craftsmanship and engineering. They are commonly found in premium timepieces and admired as symbols of tradition and luxury.
Solar-Powered Movement: Smart & Sustainable
Solar-powered watches use both natural and artificial light to charge an internal battery. Blending the accuracy of quartz with eco-friendly technology, they deliver lasting performance without the hassle of battery replacements.
Ideal for eco-conscious individuals, Citizen Eco-Drive watches are some of the best examples of this innovation.
Choosing What’s Right For You
- Want practicality? Go Quartz—accurate, durable, and budget-friendly.
- Desire automatic luxury and ease? Go Automatic—the best of both worlds.
- Care about sustainability? Check Solar options.
How We Help At House Of Watches
Explore our curated collections:
- Quartz Essentials—reliable everyday wear with brands like Casio, Timex, Tissot and Sekonda.
- Automatic Masterpieces—crafted sophistication with Bremont, Longines and Seiko.
- Eco-Conscious Picks—explore Citizen, Casio, Seiko and more.
Discover Your Ideal Watch at House of Watches
Choosing a watch is more than picking a timekeeper, it’s picking a companion. Whether you value precision, tradition, or innovation, understanding watch movements helps you find the perfect match.
Ready to find your next timepiece? Use the Movement filter on our website to help you choose within your favourite collections.
