If watchmaking were an art gallery, chronographs would be a star attraction in this exhibition. The journey started when Louis Moinet, in 1816, crafted the first chronograph called, the “Thirds Counter”, designed for astronomical use. It was a big step forward because it could count up to a sixtieth of a second. But the name “chronograph” came later in 1821.
The word “Chronograph” combines two Greek words: Chronos (time) and graph (writing). Nicolas-Mathieu Rieussec gave this name when he patented a watch that used ink to mark the time passed on a white dial. From these small but big first steps, innovations gathered momentum.
In the 1930s, the chronograph moved from the pocket to the wrist. They managed to get the machine into small wristwatches. Think about how fun that would have been. Additionally, this step forward helps add features like start, stop, and reset.
These could be controlled separately by tapping buttons. Being easy to use and easy to reach made the chronograph a favourite for both experts and collectors.
Inside the Machine: How Chronographs Work
A chronograph is essentially a stopwatch merged with a regular watch. This ingenious device is the result of an elaborate interaction of many small parts like gears, springs, and wheels. Essentially, two key components keep the chronograph ticking, both literally and figuratively.
The Clutch Systems
Lateral Clutch
The lateral clutch system uses a lever to link the chronograph seconds wheel to the running mechanism. Pressing the pusher moves the lever to either start or stop the chronograph. However, the wheels bumping into each other may cause a small ‘jump’, affecting the overall precision of the system.
Vertical Clutch
On the other hand, the vertical clutch guarantees a more consistent and reliable performance. Unlike the interlocking gears, this system works on direct contact, eliminating the ‘jump’ problem and decreasing wear and tear. Consequently, the watch achieves a perfect balance of precision and durability.
Column Wheel vs. Cam Shunt
There’s a difference in how a chronograph’s levers function. We have two methods—column wheel and cam shunt. The column wheel is laser-accurate, working with a piece shaped like a cylinder with six columns. This system is not just efficient but intricately built. It adds to the high status of the watch.
In other words, it’s a favourite among collectors. The cam shunt, on the other hand, is easier and cheaper to make but doesn’t have the column wheel’s precision.
It’s a go-to for anyone seeking an affordable option that doesn’t compromise essential features.
The Many Faces (and Uses) of the Chronograph
Time has inspired watchmakers to innovate, creating different types of chronographs. Each has a unique function, proving its worth beyond just a timepiece.
Flyback Chronograph: Introduced in 1936 by Longines, this design is quite savvy. Contrary to conventional chronographs, a flyback can reset and restart with a single button push. This makes it perfect for pilots who need exact timing.
Rattrapante Chronograph: Need to track two start times at once? The rattrapante has dual second hands; one can pause while the other keeps moving. Press play, and the stopped hand hustles to the ongoing one. This is great for noting scattered finish times in competitions.
Monopusher Chronograph: This variant simplifies operations. With the monopusher chronograph, you can start, halt, and reset with one button. It is so smart that it is often found at 2 o’clock or merged with the crown.
Scales That Tell a Story
A chronograph is not only about timing; it has handy and scientific uses, too. These elements turn a practical tool into a wearable tech. Take the tachymetric scale. A crowd-pleaser in motorsports, it helps you figure out how fast something’s moving over a certain distance. Start the chronograph when it begins its path, stop it when done, and check the speed on the outer ring.
Then, there’s the telemetric scale: It’s used to figure out how far you are from visible and audible events (like a thunderbolt or old-time cannon fire). This scale works because light moves faster than sound.
Lastly, the pulsometric scale: Many doctors use this to see a patient’s heartbeat in just a couple of seconds.
At its essence, the chronograph reflects the watchmaker’s skill and cleverness. Whether timing a competition, measuring your morning jog, or simply marvelling at its intricate workings, possessing a chronograph is like possessing a bit of the past.
Now, examine your current watch more deeply—or maybe it’s time to explore why it’s so popular. Who can say? Your upcoming watch might just contain an integrated stopwatch.