The different types of watch movements ?

The different types of watch movements

Watchmaking is a fascinating field, rich in innovation and expertise. At the heart of every watch is its movement, the mechanism that powers it. Understanding the different types of watch movements is essential for any watch enthusiast, especially those interested in vintage watches. In this article, we'll explore the various types of watch movements, with a particular focus on automatic movements such as the bumper, micro-rotor and classic rotor.

Mechanical movements

The mechanical movements are the oldest and most traditional. They operate by means of a main spring that slowly expands, transmitting its energy through a series of gears to turn the watch hands. These movements are entirely mechanical, with no electronics involved.

Manual movements

The manual movements are a type of mechanical movement. They require the wearer to wind the watch by hand, usually by turning the crown. This action tensions the mainspring, providing the energy needed to operate the watch. Manual movements are often found in vintage watches and are prized for their simplicity and horological tradition.

Automatic movements

The automatic movementsor self-winding movements, are an evolution of manual movements. They are wound automatically by the wearer's wrist movements. This is made possible by a rotor, a semi-circular weight that pivots freely and tensions the main spring with each movement.

a) The bumper movement

The bumper movement is one of the earliest types of automatic movement. Introduced in the 1920s and 1930s, the bumper movement uses a rotor that doesn't rotate a full 360 degrees. Instead, it bounces from side to side, encountering a spring that sends it back. This type of movement is recognizable by the "bump" or bouncing sensation felt when wearing the watch. Although less efficient than full-rotor movements, the bumper marked a milestone in the evolution of automatic watches.

b) The micro-rotor movement

The micro-rotor movement is a more recent innovation in automatic movements. Introduced in the 1950s and 1960s, the micro-rotor is a miniature rotor integrated at the same level as the other movement components, rather than on top of them. This configuration makes it possible to design slimmer, more elegant watches without sacrificing the efficiency of automatic winding. Watches equipped with a micro-rotor are often highly sought-after for their finesse and technical sophistication.

c) The classic rotor movement

The classical rotor motion is the type of automatic movement most commonly used today. It uses a complete rotor that rotates freely through 360 degrees, winding the main spring efficiently with every movement of the wrist. This type of movement is appreciated for its reliability and robustness, making it the preferred choice for many modern automatic watches.

Quartz movements

The quartz movements represent another major advance in watchmaking. Introduced in the 1960s, these movements use a quartz crystal to regulate time. The quartz vibrates at a very precise frequency when powered by a battery, ensuring exceptional precision. Quartz movements are less expensive to produce and require less maintenance than mechanical movements, making them very popular for modern watches.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of watch movements is essential for any watch enthusiast, especially when it comes to vintage watches. Each type of movement, whether mechanical, manual, automatic or quartz, offers its own advantages and unique charm. Automatic movements, with their variants such as the bumper, micro-rotor and classic rotor, represent the ingenuity and evolution of watchmaking through the decades. Exploring these mechanisms enhances our appreciation of the art and science behind each watch.