Is it a waste not to use a chronograph? Its appeal and how to use it

Chronographs are characterized by their intricate mechanical design and highly convenient functions. However, some models have special meters on the dial or bezel, and you may not know how to use them. We will explain how to use a chronograph and delve deeper into its appeal.

Chronograph Basics

A chronograph is essentially a function of a wristwatch, and is also a classification name for models based on their functions. To understand chronographs, let's first look at their basic functions and appeal.

Refers to the stopwatch function on a wristwatch

To reiterate, a "chronograph" is a mechanical watch that also has a stopwatch function. In many models, the central second hand is replaced with a chronograph second hand, and two or three subdials display the seconds and accumulated chronograph time.

It is common to use 30-minute or 60-minute minute counters and 12-hour or 24-hour hour counters.

By operating the start/stop button at 2 o'clock on the side of the case and the reset button at 4 o'clock, you can measure elapsed time and compare lap times.

The chronograph's design is also attractive.

Models equipped with chronographs are not only highly functional as measuring instruments, but also have a great appeal in their mechanical design.

Details such as the inner dial and chronograph second hand adorn the dial, and together with the crown and buttons, it gives it an appearance befitting a "machine to be operated."

The basic function of a chronograph is to measure time, but there are also models that utilize this function to incorporate special measurement functions.

The appeal of this type of chronograph lies in its high functionality and complex design, which is achieved by combining the meters (scales) on the bezel and dial.

Types of chronographs

There are many variations of the term chronograph. By combining a totalizer with a meter on the bezel or dial, it is possible to skip calculations depending on the purpose.

Let's take a look at the functions of the six types of meters, including the tachymeter.

Tachymeter and telemeter

The tachymeter, which comes from the Greek word "takhus" (fast), is a meter with a scale ranging from 500 or 400 to 60, allowing you to easily calculate average speed or "amount of work done per hour."

For example, if you run 1 km in 30 seconds, your average speed is 120 km/h, and if you complete a task in 30 seconds, you can repeat it 120 times in an hour.

A telemeter is a meter that measures the distance to the point where lightning strikes or a cannonball is fired by measuring the difference between the speed of light and the speed of sound. The time starts when light is detected and stops when sound is heard, and the distance can be read on the telemeter.

Decimal meters and parking meters

A "decimal meter" is a meter that can measure in the decimal system with a scale of 100 units. By converting timekeeping from a sexagesimal system to a decimal system, it becomes easier to measure the number of units produced per unit time and calculate the remaining fuel.

A parking meter is a meter that makes it easy to measure parking time by displaying a disc in a window that rotates once every 60 minutes. Although it is a disc display, it also functions as a 60-minute accumulator, so it can also be used as a simple chronograph.

Pulse meters and asmometers

A pulse meter can easily measure the number of heartbeats per minute. If you stop the timer when you reach 15 or 20 beats per minute, you can read your pulse rate on the pulse meter.

The "asmometer," which is specifically designed to measure respiration, has a similar function, measuring the number of breaths taken per minute. Both are remnants of the classic nurse and doctor's watches.

How to use a chronograph and precautions

Due to their high functionality, chronographs are equipped with a large number of parts. Furthermore, many models have related mechanisms that operate independently from the hour, minute, and second hands, so incorrect operation can lead to malfunctions. Here, we will look at how to use the chronograph function and what to be careful of.

The basics of measurement are start, stop, and reset

The chronograph function is typically operated using a start/stop button at the 2 o'clock position and a reset button at the 4 o'clock position.

When you press the start/stop button, the chronograph second hand and the counter start moving simultaneously; when you press it again, the timing stops; and when you press the reset button, both hands return to their zero positions.

If you push the start button and then reset without stopping it, it may cause malfunctions such as misalignment of the hands. The operation method differs depending on the model, but be careful when handling the reset button.

Even if you don't use it at all, it can cause damage

Although the parts that control the chronograph function are lubricated, frequent use of the function causes significant wear and tear, increasing the risk of breakdown.

On the other hand, if you don't use the watch at all, the lubricant will harden, which can also cause malfunctions. To extend the life of your watch, try to run it about once a month even if you don't need its functions.

Let's use it appropriately

Chronographs are not only complex and sophisticated in terms of functionality, but also have an appealing mechanical design. Many models have chronograph functions, and many people purchase them because of their design.

After understanding the functions and usage, choose a combination of meter and tally meter and continue to use it appropriately so as not to shorten its lifespan.