Which is Better Quartz or Mechanical Watch?

If you are looking to buy a new watch, you will see that there are two main categories for watches. One is mechanical watches while the other is quartz watches. Hence, before deciding which watch to buy, you might wonder which is better quartz or mechanical watch.

You know both mechanical and quartz watches have their fair share of advantages over one another. However, both of these have some pros and cons. 

We have a related article for you, you can read Do Quartz Watches Need Winding?

Let us compare both the mechanical and quartz watches side by side. In that way, you will be able to decide the watch that will suit you the most!

Which is Better Quartz or Mechanical Watch?

To be perfectly honest, it depends on the user whether a quartz watch or a mechanical watch is better. Many people think that mechanical watches are better for their mechanism and precision as well as their craftsmanship. However, quartz watches are also better in many aspects. 

Mechanical Watch Overview:

Mechanical watches are very fascinating in how they function. These watches are the result of pure watchmaking. These watches have a rich history and are quite intricate in design.

To function properly, you will need to wind the watch using a dial from time to time. Now, let us discuss the pros and cons of mechanical watches.

Pros of a Mechanical Watch

Mechanical watches are the product of pure craftsmanship. These watches have very intricate mechanisms. The time and expense needed to make a mechanical watch make it worthwhile to own one. 

Also, these watches do not need any battery to operate. Along with that, the smooth movement of dials is something people find very pleasing.

Cons of a Mechanical Watch

Mechanical watches require winding regularly to function. Though many people find it fascinating, to some it is a nuisance.

Mechanical watches are quite sensitive to the environment. The accumulation of dust and moisture affect the materials of a mechanical watch. Along with that, mechanical watches are not resistant to shocks and magnets.

To be blunt, mechanical watches are expensive. Many people cannot afford to buy a mechanical watch. The engineering and craftsmanship required to produce a mechanical watch make it out of reach for common folks.

Quartz Watch Overview:

Quartz watches are usually powered by a battery. The battery sends electricity to the quartz crystal inside the watch, causing it to oscillate. This oscillation of the quartz crystal keeps the watch running.

Pros of a Quartz Watch

Quartz watches are quite affordable. Quartz watches are easy to produce compared to mechanical watches. That’s why quartz watches do not cost that much.

Quartz watches also require very little maintenance. Quartz watches have a very simple mechanism. That’s why these can be easily maintained. For instance, you will only need to replace the battery when it runs out.

As quartz watches are run by a battery, they do not need winding. For people who find winding a watch annoying, quartz watches can be a great solution.

Cons of a Quartz Watch

Quartz watches are comprised of electric components. These components wear out with time. Although nowadays many quartz watches are said to be able to last for a lifetime, the components will eventually stop working.

You will also need to change the batteries quite frequently. The batteries will run out as they cannot store indefinite energy. Changing batteries frequently can be quite a hassle for many people.

Mechanical Watches vs. Quartz Watches: Similarities 

Both mechanical and quartz watches are reliable. People rely on quartz watches due to their accuracy while the reliance on mechanical watches comes from their longevity.

Also, both of these watches are fashionable in their own sense. High-end quartz watches have premium materials. Some of the quartz watches even have jewels embedded in them.

Mechanical watches always hold an artistic value. The inner mechanics of mechanical watches are marvelous. There are a lot of people who choose mechanical watches to appreciate the craftsmanship and hard work of watchmakers.

Mechanical Watches vs. Quartz Watches: Differences

Quartz watches can be mass-produced whereas, it takes a lot of time and effort to make one mechanical watch. This is due to the difference in their mechanism. While quartz watches can operate easily with some components, mechanical watches need precise engineering and craftsmanship.

Mechanical watches can last for eternity with proper maintenance. On the other hand, quartz watches stop functioning when the components wear out.

Compared to mechanical watches, quartz watches can give more accurate time. While mechanical watches lose 5-10 seconds in a day, quartz watches lose about 4-5 seconds in a month.

Verdict:

Mechanical and quartz watches have some fundamental differences. We think that we have perfectly explained which is better quartz or mechanical watch.

Ultimately, it depends on what you prefer. We hope that this article will clear any types of confusion you have in your mind. 

Both quartz and mechanical watches have their perks. If you think that a quartz watch suits your taste more, you should buy it. Similarly, if you think that a mechanical watch will suit you, you are better off buying one.