12 Interesting Facts About Best Mechanical Watches That Will Surprise You

Mechanical watches are more than time-telling devices. They testify to the evolution of both human skills and creativity. With the onset of technology, digital watches and smartwatches have paved their way to capture a sufficient market share. Yet nothing can overpower the charisma of mechanical watches as they have a strong link to tradition, carrying forward centuries of craftsmanship and watchmaking skills. Exploring this piece of writing will reveal 12 interesting facts about mechanical watches.

1. Not Battery Reliant

Mechanical watches liberate you from the requirement of batteries, unlike quartz counterparts. They operate on springs and finely tuned gears.

2. A Mechanical Wristwatch Can Last a Lifetime with Proper Care

Like any precious asset, a high-quality mechanical watch is a family heirloom that can transcend generations. With proper maintenance, it can last for decades, retaining its value.

3. Incredible Ticking Frequency at 28,800 Times per Hour

Every mechanical watch ticks 8 times per second, producing 28,800 ticks per hour. This regular ticking is produced by the balance wheel, ensuring accurate timekeeping.

4. Initially Designed for Women

It is interesting to know that wristwatches were originally designed for women. Over time, their practicality won over men, especially during World War I.

5. Tourbillon: A Masterpiece of Engineering

The tourbillon mechanism was designed to counteract gravity's effect on watch accuracy, becoming a hallmark of luxury watches.

6. The Priciest Mechanical Watch

The Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime holds the record for the most expensive mechanical watch, selling for $31 million in 2019.

7. Assembly of 200+ Parts

A mechanical watch comprises over 200 tiny parts, including springs, jewels, and gears, requiring meticulous precision for accurate timekeeping.

8. Oldest Surviving Watch Brand

Blancpain has been manufacturing mechanical watches since 1735, making it the oldest surviving watch brand.

9. First Waterproof Wristwatch

The Rolex Oyster, introduced in 1927, was the first waterproof mechanical wristwatch, tested in a 10-hour swim across the English Channel.

10. Tracking Stars

High-end mechanical watches have astronomical features like celestial charts and moon phase indicators to track star movement.

11. First Mechanical Watch to Travel to Space

In 1969, the Omega Speedmaster became the first mechanical watch to travel to space during the Apollo 11 mission.

12. Jewels Are for Purpose

The synthetic sapphires or rubies in mechanical watches reduce friction and extend the watch's useful life. Most mechanical watches feature 15-30 jewels.