How Long Does a Quartz Watch Last?

Quartz watches are known for their reliability and durability. When taken care of properly these watch movements can last for years, but how long exactly do they last?

Quartz watches are timepieces that use an electronic oscillator which is regulated by a quartz crystal. The crystal oscillator creates a very precise and reliable frequency in order to tell time.

In today's blog, we will be looking into how a quartz watch works, how long it lasts and where you can get yourself a watch with a quartz movement.

What Is a Quartz Watch?

The primary power source for quartz movement is a battery. For power to be generated inside the watch, the battery sends an electrical current through a small quartz crystal which leads to the crystal vibrating.

The vibrations of the crystal then act as a domino effect for the other mechanical features inside the timepiece.

What Is a Watch Movement?

The watch movement is what powers the watch to tell the time. Movements are made up of springs, gears and other components. There are three different types of movements:

• Mechanical
• Automatic
• Quartz

Let's break down the difference between each watch movement.

Mechanical

A mechanical watch movement works by a clockwork mechanism to measure time. Mechanical movements are the oldest and simplest types of watch movements and are still popular today. To power a watch with a mechanical movement you must hand wind the mainspring by rotating the crown.

Automatic

Automatic watch movements are powered by you. Yes, you! The natural movements that you make day to day whilst wearing your watch are what winds it and keeps it running.

Automatic watches feature a freely rotating metal weight called the rotor, the movements that you make are what cause the rotor to spin. Once the rotor begins to spin, it automatically coils the mainspring inside of the watch providing power and time.

Quartz

The vibrations from the quartz crystal inside of the watch lead to a harsh one-second movement, whereas mechanical watches have a smoother sweeping motion. Many different luxury brands have watch models that feature quartz movements. Tag Heuer, Omega and Breitling all offer Quartz movements.

Can Quartz Watches Last a Lifetime?

With proper care and maintenance, your quartz watch will last for decades. Quartz watches are not expected to last as long as mechanical or automatic watches and the average lifespan for a quartz watch is 10-20 years.

To keep the proper maintenance of your quartz watch, you must replace your watch battery every 3-5 years and take your watch for regular servicing where necessary.

Solar Powered Quartz Watch

A solar-powered quartz watch is a quartz watch with a built-in solar panel and rechargeable battery. Solar-powered watches are a lot more sustainable.

The watches work by light passing through the dial and hitting the solar panel behind the built-in semi-transparent dial. You can find solar-panelled quartz watches from brands such as Casio, Cartier, Seiko and Garmin.

Quartz Watches Here at Miltons Diamonds

Here at Miltons Diamonds, we specialise in luxury second-hand timepieces. All of our timepieces have been hand-selected, in-house by our team and have all been checked over by multiple experts to guarantee the utmost quality and authenticity.

We stock some of the most recognised luxury brands such as:

• Rolex
• Omega
• Tag Heuer
• Cartier
• Breitling
• Tudor

We also offer automatic, quartz and mechanical movements so depending on which one you prefer, we are sure we have what you are looking for.

If you are interested in a quartz watch, take a look at our Tag Heuer Aquaracer WBD1312 - 32mm - Ladies Watch. This stunning watch features a blue dial with a steel case. Manufactured in 2020 and is still in mint condition.

If you prefer something with a little more shine, our Omega Constellation 123.20.24.60.55.004 – Diamond Dial is perfect for you. This watch has a mother-of-pearl diamond with a steel and yellow gold case and diamond hour markers.

If you have any questions regarding the products that we have available then don't hesitate to reach out and a member of our team will be more than happy to help. Browse our products across our website or visit us in either of our Merseyside stores.