A Beginner’s Guide to Watch Movements: Automatic vs Quartz vs Manual

If you’re stepping into the world of horology, understanding watch movements is a fundamental first step. Simply put, a watch movement is the mechanism inside the timepiece that drives its timekeeping functions. Think of it as the engine under the hood whether mechanical or electronic, it’s the heart that makes the watch tick.

There are three main types of watch movements that every beginner should understand: automatic , quartz , and manual . Each has its own unique characteristics, advantages, and charm. In this guide, we'll explore the differences between them to help you make an informed decision.

Automatic watches, also known as self-winding watches, are a type of mechanical watch that winds itself as you wear it. The movement features a rotor that spins with the motion of your wrist, transferring energy to wind the mainspring.

Automatic watches are a type of mechanical watch that winds itself using the natural motion of the wearer’s wrist. Inside the watch case is a small rotor , a semi-circular metal weight connected to the movement. As you move your wrist throughout the day, the rotor spins, winding the mainspring , the component that stores energy.

This energy is then gradually released to power the watch hands and any complications (like date or moon phase). Because of this self-winding mechanism, automatic watches do not require batteries.

Most automatic watches have a power reserve ranging from 36 to 80 hours. That means if you stop wearing the watch, it will continue running for that long before stopping. To keep an automatic watch running when not worn regularly, collectors often use a watch winder , which mimics wrist motion.

This movement type is prized for its craftsmanship and longevity, making it a top choice among luxury brands like Rolex, Omega, and Tudor.

• Needs regular use or a watch winder

• More expensive to maintain

• Less accurate than quartz (but precise enough for daily wear)

Introduced in the late 1960s, quartz movement watches revolutionized the watch industry. Instead of relying on mechanical gears, these watches use a battery-powered circuit and a quartz crystal oscillator to maintain accurate time.

Quartz watches revolutionized the industry in the late 20th century by offering exceptional accuracy , affordability, and convenience. Unlike mechanical movements that rely on gears and springs, quartz watches are powered by a battery and regulated by a tiny quartz crystal.

Here’s how it works: the battery sends a small electric current through the quartz crystal, causing it to oscillate at a precise frequency of 32,768 vibrations per second . These vibrations are measured and converted into electrical pulses that move the motor and the hands of the watch.

Quartz movements require very little maintenance , aside from periodic battery replacements (usually every 1–2 years), and are often lighter and slimmer than mechanical alternatives. Their second hand typically “ticks” once per second, unlike the smooth sweep seen in automatic or manual watches.

This movement is ideal for those who prioritize low maintenance, reliable timekeeping, and affordability. Brands like Casio, Citizen, and Seiko have mastered the quartz category.

• Requires battery replacements every 1–2 years

• Lacks the mechanical charm of other types

• Second hand typically "ticks" instead of sweeping

Also referred to as hand-wound watches, manual watch movements are the oldest form of watch mechanics. You must manually wind the crown to tighten the mainspring and power the watch.

Manual or hand-wound watch movements are the oldest form of watch engineering. Unlike automatic watches, manual timepieces lack a rotor. Instead, they must be wound by hand using the crown —a small knob usually located on the side of the watch.

When you twist the crown, you're tightening the mainspring. As it slowly unwinds, it releases energy that powers the watch’s hands and complications. This creates a unique connection between the wearer and the watch, turning timekeeping into a daily ritual.

Because there’s no rotor taking up space, manual watches can be thinner and more elegant in design, perfect for dress watches or vintage styles. However, they require consistent attention. If you forget to wind your watch, it will stop running until manually wound again.

• Requires daily winding

• Less practical for everyday wear

• Lower power reserve (usually 36–48 hours)

To make the right choice, ask yourself these questions:

• Do you want a low-maintenance timepiece? → Go for quartz.
  
  

• Do you appreciate craftsmanship and tradition? → Choose automatic or manual.
  
  

• Do you want a watch that never needs batteries? → Automatic or manual.
  
  

• Do you wear your watch daily? → Automatic is ideal.
  
  

• Are you building a watch collection? → Include all three to experience the variety.

Understanding watch movements gives you an edge in selecting a watch that matches your taste and lifestyle. Whether it’s the hands-off precision of quartz, the dependable elegance of automatic, or the nostalgic ritual of manual winding, every movement has a story to tell.

Explore our collection of expertly curated watches featuring all three movement types and find the one that ticks all your boxes.