OMEGA Seamaster Chronometer vs Chronograph

In this blog, we’re taking the chronometer and chronograph into a battle of the watches to discover which ranks better. Yes, of course, they both tell the time, but today watches go far beyond this and timepiece technology is continuously innovating. So, whilst both have a watch’s primary function in the bag, let’s uncover what each watch has to offer so you can make an informed decision upon your next purchase. 

OMEGA Seamaster Chronograph

A chronograph is defined as ‘a piece of equipment that measures and records periods of time,’ making the watch’s primary function a stopwatch. In OMEGA Seamaster models, a chronograph is an additional component - or complication in watch jargon - on top of the primary hour, minute and second timekeeping functions. 

This Seamaster Diver combines ocean and sailing inspiration with pioneering new technology. The 44mm chronograph is built from stainless steel, with a bezel ring in blue ceramic and a white enamel diving scale. To improve grip during water activities, the watch provides blue and red soft-touch pushers in rubber. The watch is presented on a metal bracelet with an additional rubber strap, both featuring OMEGA’s new patented Quick Change system and is driven by the Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 9900.

The stopwatch function of this watch can be activated and stopped using the additional pushers on the side of the watch, usually positioned at 2 o’clock and 4 o’clock. When the function is stopped, subdials are reset without affecting the display of the current time.

Chronographs, however, are not exclusive to the OMEGA Seamaster. In fact, the mechanism dates back to 1816, when Louis Moinet invented the chronograph in order to work with astronomical equipment. Since then, watchmakers such as OMEGA have adopted the mechanism and included it in their watch designs for additional functionality and timekeeping convenience. 

With the OMEGA Seamaster being a range of diving watches, the chronograph functionality allows divers to keep a record of dive times for competition or training purposes, or to ensure divers are safe and not underwater for too long. 

OMEGA Seamaster Chronometer

The dictionary definition of a chronometer is ‘a piece of equipment that measures time very accurately.’ So, while a chronograph is an additional feature of a watch, a chronometer is more concerned with a watch’s performance.

Consequently, it is possible for chronograph watches to also be chronometers, and this is certainly the case with OMEGA’s Seamaster range.

This Seamaster Aqua Terra is a superb tribute to OMEGA’s rich maritime heritage. The sun-brushed blue-grey dial is distinguished by a horizontal “teak” pattern, along with a date window at 6H and an opaline Small Seconds sundial featuring an 18k Sedna™ gold ring. The design is further complemented by indexes filled with white Super-LumiNova, as well as sandblasted minutes and seconds tracks on the dial and sundial. The watch is powered by the OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronograph calibre 8196, certified at the industry’s highest standard by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS). 

Chronometers are ultimately a standard of watch which certifies their ability to precisely keep track of time. The nature of mechanical watches means they are subject to certain impacts and factors that affect their precision and accuracy. But, like any engine, over time the mechanical elements wear and tear due to friction and this causes performance to decline. From this was born the chronometer - a certification from the watch industry’s obsession with timekeeping precision in order to overcome this challenge. 

The chronometer is a recognition of a watch’s ability to remain precise and be relatively unaffected by both internal and external factors, such as humidity, pressure, magnetism and gravity. To measure this, watches must undergo a series of rigorous testing. 

Chronometer vs Chronograph Side by Side Comparison

Which one should you buy? 

So, now you know the difference between chronographs and chronometers, you may be wondering which is best for your timepiece needs. 

If precision is your preference, a watch with a chronometer certification will not disappoint. However, if you desire something with additional functionality, which will be particularly useful in diving and other sports-related situations, a chronograph is ideal. 

Fortunately, the OMEGA Seamaster range offers the best of both worlds. Many of the watches in the collection that feature a chronometer are also great chronographs. Not only are these watches highly functional, but they are also incredibly reliable and precise.

You can discover the OMEGA Seamaster chronograph and chronometer range here at Wallace Allan.