The History of Quartz Watches
Although the history of the quartz watch begins with the introduction of Seiko’s legendary Astron model in 1969, quartz had in fact already been utilised in clockmaking more than 40 years earlier.
In 1927, J.W. Horton and Warren Marrison constructed the world’s first quartz-based clock whilst working at the American research and development company Bell Telephone Laboratories. The potential application of quartz for the purposes of timekeeping was studied widely over the next several decades, but it would take until the late 1960s for quartz timepieces to find their way onto the mass market.
With advances in technology having made the production of these mechanisms more affordable, Japanese watchmaker Seiko disrupted the market with the introduction of the world’s first quartz watch. In doing so, it beat the Swiss-made Beta21 movement – which would go on to be used by the likes of Rolex, OMEGA and Patek Philippe – to the punch. Although Swiss watch brand Longines had announced the introduction of its Ultra-Quartz model several months earlier, the Seiko Astron was the first quartz watch to successfully make it into production.
The introduction of quartz unleashed a revolution that sent shockwaves throughout the watchmaking industry. Apart from offering greater accuracy, quartz timepieces were significantly less expensive to produce than their mechanical counterparts. Utilising a simpler construction with fewer moving parts, they also required significantly less maintenance. The combination of these factors ushered in a time of great uncertainty and change – a period still referred to as the ‘Quartz Crisis’.
Quartz proved to be so disruptive that it displaced many mechanisms in use at the time. This was partly a result of its mainstream appeal, with quartz timepieces offering a more affordable alternative to mechanical movements. By the end of the 1980s, quartz had become a standard mechanism in watches, alarm clocks, kitchen timers and even time locks.
The popularity of quartz led established watchmakers to react in different ways. Whilst the vast majority introduced their own quartz-based models, others renewed their focus on luxury, mechanically-driven timepieces. Today, the accuracy and durability provided by quartz has seen the mechanism retain its position as a cornerstone of modern watchmaking.
Quartz Men’s Watches
If you’re looking for your ideal quartz men’s watch, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the Wallace Allan collection. The Longines Conquest V.H.P. Blue Ceramic, the Raymond Weil Parsifal Black Dial, the OMEGA De Ville Prestige Quartz and the Tag Heuer Formula 1 Chronograph are just a few highlights of what’s on offer, with each timepiece offering elegance and accuracy in equal measure.
Quartz Women’s Watches
Wallace Allan offers a diverse collection of quartz women’s watches to suit every look and occasion. Those favouring a classically styled piece will find much to love in the Raymond Weil Tango Ladies, Longines Symphonette Ladies and Longines PrimaLuna Steel & Rose models, whilst pieces such as the Bering Ceramic White and Steel Ladies offer an unquestionably modern look. Whatever you’re looking for, we can help find the right timepiece for you.
Quartz Watches: The Top Models
With many of the world’s most iconic timepieces being driven by quartz, the modern watch buyer has a wealth of top models to choose from. Some of the most popular quartz watches ever to have seen the light of day include the Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Nighthawk, the Tissot T-Sport PRC200, the Longines HydroConquest and the Tag Heuer Formula 1. With so many magnificent watches available, the list is endless.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a quartz watch work?
Most quartz movements utilise batteries as their primary source of power. A small electrical current generated by the battery is directed towards a quartz crystal, which in turn creates vibration. That vibration is used to help rhythmically swing a balance wheel located in the watch movement, enabling it to function as required.
The number of rhythmical swings (or ‘oscillations’) made by the balance wheel over the course of a single second is expressed in Hertz, with each swing producing a corresponding vibration. Quartz crystals are known for their precise frequency standard, meaning that they’re both reliable and highly accurate.
Are quartz watches waterproof?
The degree to which a watch is able to resist water is dependent on the model in question, and quartz-based timepieces are no exception. Although no timepiece can be said to be completely waterproof in every circumstance, most major watchmakers offer dedicated ranges centred around water resistance.
Depending on what you buy, your watch may be water resistant up to depths of 50m, 100m, 1000m or perhaps even more. Examples of quartz-based timepieces that offer water resistance include the Tag Heuer Carrera MOP Quartz, the OMEGA De Ville Prestige Quartz and the Raymond Weil Moon Phase Maestro Steel.
Can a quartz watch last a lifetime?
Quartz movements can last several decades or even an entire lifetime dependent on the quality of the watch. This is partly due to the relative simplicity with which they’re made; the average quartz-based movement may utilise around 30 or so parts, whilst mechanical movements can incorporate up to 200. When it comes to longevity, high-end quartz timepieces are likely to significantly outlast lower-end models.
This is not to say your quartz timepiece won’t require the odd bit of maintenance. As most quartz watches are battery-powered, the majority of them will need to be serviced from time to time. The frequency with which this will be necessary may vary, but the average battery will generally need replacing every 2-5 years.
Regular maintenance helps ensure your watch remains in the best possible condition, supporting optimal performance in the long-term. If you’re looking to get your watch serviced by a recognised specialist, feel free to get in touch with us to schedule a hassle-free appointment.
How much is a Geneva quartz watch worth?
Geneva is one of the most affordable watch brands available, and its timepieces are stocked by countless department stores and online resellers. Quartz watches manufactured by Geneva are primarily designed for the mass market, meaning their value is likely to be limited.
Unlike timepieces manufactured by luxury watch brands, a Geneva watch generally does not incorporate high-value materials or make use of sophisticated mechanics. Having said that, it all depends on the model, condition and desirability of the watch in question.
How much does a quartz watch cost?
Quartz watches come in all shapes and sizes, meaning that it’s hard to classify them into a single price range. As a rule of thumb, quartz timepieces are significantly less expensive to produce than mechanical watches. As a result, many of the most affordable watches currently on the market incorporate a quartz-based mechanism.
Many well-known watchmakers such as Seiko and Citizen produce quartz timepieces for less than £100. However, you may also find quartz timepieces that sit at the opposite side of the spectrum, with prices for high-end models often running into the thousands.
Contact the Wallace Allan Team
Looking to find out more about the quality watches available at Wallace Allan? No problem. Simply send us a message to get expert advice from one of our in-house specialists.
