October 23, 2024

Automatic vs. Quartz Movements: Which Is Right for Your Lifestyle?

When it comes to choosing a watch, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is deciding between an automatic or quartz movement. While both options have their merits, they serve different purposes and appeal to different types of watch wearers. If you’re wondering which one suits your lifestyle best, this guide will help you break down the key differences, advantages, and potential drawbacks of both movements.

What Is an Automatic Movement?

An automatic watch, also known as a self-winding watch, is powered by the motion of the wearer’s wrist. It uses a rotor inside the case that spins with the movement of your arm, winding the mainspring, which stores energy to power the watch. If you wear the watch regularly, it will continue to wind itself and run indefinitely. If left unworn for extended periods, an automatic watch may stop running and need to be manually wound or reset.

What Is a Quartz Movement?

A quartz watch, on the other hand, is powered by a small battery and a quartz crystal. The battery sends an electric current through the quartz, which vibrates at a precise frequency (32,768 times per second). These vibrations are then translated into consistent timekeeping. Because quartz watches don’t rely on mechanical motion or winding, they are incredibly accurate and require minimal maintenance, other than changing the battery every few years.

Accuracy: Which Keeps Better Time?

Automatic Watches:

Automatic watches are known for their craftsmanship and mechanical complexity, but they are generally less accurate than quartz watches. Most automatic watches have an average daily deviation of -10 to +15 seconds.
High-end automatic watches with COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres) certification or in-house movements are more accurate, but even they can’t match the precision of quartz movements. Factors like temperature and gravity can slightly affect their timekeeping.

Quartz Watches:

Quartz watches are known for their exceptional accuracy, usually deviating by only a few seconds per month. The nature of the quartz crystal ensures consistent and reliable timekeeping, unaffected by factors like movement or temperature changes.
Some quartz watches, like Citizen’s Eco-Drive or Seiko's Solar, harness solar power, extending battery life to decades without losing accuracy.

Winner (Accuracy): Quartz watches take the crown for accuracy. If precise timekeeping is essential to you, quartz is the way to go.

Maintenance: How Much Work Is Involved?

Automatic Watches:

Automatic watches require more maintenance due to their mechanical complexity. They need regular servicing (typically every 3-5 years) to ensure the intricate parts stay lubricated and function properly.
If left unworn for several days, they may need to be manually wound or reset. Some automatic watch owners opt to use a watch winder to keep their watches running when not in use.

Quartz Watches:

Quartz watches are much lower maintenance. The most significant task you’ll face is replacing the battery every 2-5 years, depending on the watch. Some solar-powered quartz watches can run for decades without needing battery replacement.
With fewer mechanical parts, quartz watches don’t require regular servicing, making them ideal for people who want a “set it and forget it” approach.

Winner (Maintenance): Quartz watches win again here. If you prefer minimal upkeep and long-lasting performance, quartz is a hassle-free choice.

Durability: Which Is Tougher?

Automatic Watches:

Automatic watches have many moving parts, making them slightly more prone to damage from shocks, drops, or magnetic fields. However, higher-end automatic watches often come with shock-resistant and anti-magnetic technology to improve durability.
Dive watches and sports watches often feature robust cases and movements designed to handle tough conditions, making certain automatic watches durable enough for outdoor activities.

Quartz Watches:

Quartz watches, with fewer mechanical components, are generally more durable. They can withstand impacts, temperature changes, and magnetic fields better than most automatic watches.
For rugged activities like hiking, diving, or sports, a quartz sports watch is an ideal companion.

Winner (Durability): Quartz watches are more durable in everyday life, while automatic watches built for rugged purposes can offer good durability, but at a higher price point.

Power Source: Battery vs. Movement

Automatic Watches:

Automatic watches are powered by the movement of your wrist, so as long as you wear it regularly, it will continue to run without any intervention. Some people enjoy the ritual of manually winding their automatic watches to keep them powered.
However, if you don’t wear your automatic watch every day, it may stop and need resetting before wearing again.

Quartz Watches:

Quartz watches are battery-powered, meaning they will run continuously for several years without needing any manual winding or movement. Solar-powered quartz watches like Citizen Eco-Drive or Seiko Solar watches can run indefinitely as long as they receive light.
While the battery will eventually need replacing, it’s an easy and inexpensive process.

Winner (Power Source): Quartz watches are more convenient if you don’t want to worry about your watch stopping when it’s not worn for a few days.

Aesthetics & Craftsmanship: Which Offers More Appeal?

Automatic Watches:

Automatic watches are often prized for their mechanical beauty. The sight of a sweeping second hand, intricate movements visible through exhibition casebacks, and the overall craftsmanship of an automatic watch appeals to collectors and watch enthusiasts alike.
Automatic watches, especially those from Swiss brands, often feature superior materials and finishes, making them a symbol of luxury and tradition.

Quartz Watches:

Quartz watches tend to have simpler designs and lack the intricate craftsmanship of automatic watches. However, that doesn’t mean they lack style. Many quartz watches feature beautiful designs, luxury materials, and modern touches.
The second hand on quartz watches typically ticks once per second, which some watch enthusiasts find less aesthetically pleasing than the smooth sweep of an automatic watch.

Winner (Aesthetics & Craftsmanship): Automatic watches take this round, offering more craftsmanship, charm, and visual appeal for collectors.

Price: Where Do They Fit in Your Budget?

Automatic Watches:

Automatic watches tend to be more expensive due to their complex movements and craftsmanship. Entry-level automatic watches can start around $300 to $500, while luxury models can easily exceed $5,000 or more.
Brands like Seiko, Tissot, and Hamilton offer affordable automatic watches, while Omega, Rolex, and Patek Philippe dominate the luxury market.

Quartz Watches:

Quartz watches are more affordable and offer excellent value for money. Entry-level quartz watches can start as low as $50, with high-end quartz watches rarely exceeding $1,500. Solar-powered quartz models tend to cost more but offer exceptional longevity and convenience.
Casio, Timex, and Swatch dominate the budget-friendly quartz market, while Breitling and Grand Seiko offer high-end quartz options.

Winner (Price): Quartz watches are more budget-friendly, offering a wide range of options for every price point.

Which Should You Choose?

At the end of the day, the choice between automatic and quartz comes down to your personal preference and lifestyle.

If you value precision, low maintenance, and durability, a quartz watch is likely the best option for you.
If you appreciate craftsmanship, tradition, and the charm of mechanical movements, an automatic watch will offer a more rewarding experience.

No matter which movement you choose, your watch can always be enhanced with a premium WIS Strap. From luxury leather to durable NATO and rubber straps, we have the perfect option to complement both automatic and quartz watches.

Explore Our Collection Now: WIS Watch Straps