The Chronograph

When referring to a ‘chronograph’ watch we generally mean one that is a ‘time recorder’ with a stopwatch function. You can use a chronograph to measure periods of time and display the time and often the date as well.

Many chronographs have an additional scale for making calculations, such as speed. A tachymeter scale is best suited for this job and is available on numerous models. Telemeter and pulsometer scales are much less common. Doctors used to use the latter to determine a patient’s pulse. On the other hand, you can use a telemeter scale to work out distances, such as how far an approaching storm is from you.

The chronograph is a “multi-tool” among wristwatches and is thus very popular among collectors.

A Chronograph is usually either a manual or quartz movement with the choice between the two depending on personal preference and needs. My personal opinion is that if you want one as a tool a quartz movement is preferable as it affords greater accuracy. From a purely horological standpoint a manual watch is perhaps more esthetically pleasing. However, I have summed up some pros and cons for prospective purchasers to consider

Manual Chronographs

Accuracy: Manual chronographs are less accurate than quartz chronographs 

Maintenance: Manual chronographs require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly 

Price: Manual chronographs are generally more expensive than quartz chronographs 

Power source: Manual chronographs use a mechanical movement powered by a mainspring that is wound by the wearer or an automatic winding mechanism to power the watch’s movement 

Battery life: Manual chronographs do not require a battery, so battery life is not an issue 

Quartz Chronographs

Accuracy: Quartz chronographs are more accurate than manual chronographs 

Maintenance: Quartz chronographs require less maintenance than manual chronographs

Price: Quartz chronographs are generally less expensive than manual chronographs 

Power source: Quartz chronographs use a battery-powered oscillator circuit to keep time 

Battery life: The battery life of quartz chronographs is shorter than that of manual chronographs 

In summary, if you prioritise accuracy and convenience, then a quartz chronograph would be a better choice. However, if you prefer the traditional look and feel of a mechanical watch and don’t mind regular maintenance, then a manual chronograph would be a better choice. Finally, a manual chronograph is generally more expensive and more costly to maintain but most have interesting and often beautiful movements.