Preowned Luxury Quartz Watches

The Quartz Revolution: How Quartz Movements Transformed the Watch Industry

The quartz movement revolution refers to a significant shift in the watch industry, which occurred in the 1970s with the introduction of quartz-powered watches. Before this revolution, most timepieces relied on mechanical movements with intricate gears and springs. However, with the advent of quartz technology, watches became more accurate, affordable, reliable, and easier to produce. 

Quartz movements replaced the traditional mechanical components with a quartz crystal oscillator and electronic circuitry. When subjected to an electric current, the quartz crystal, exhibits a precise and stable oscillation. This allows quartz watches to keep time with exceptional accuracy -- typically within seconds per month. Conversely, the accuracy rate of mechanical watches can vary by several seconds per day.

The introduction of quartz movements led to a rapid decline in mechanical watch production and a surge in the popularity of quartz watches. The mass production and affordability of quartz watches made them accessible to a broader market. Additionally, their reliability and ease of maintenance (requiring only periodic battery replacement) appealed to consumers.

The introduction of quartz movements had a profound impact on the watch industry. causing major disruptions and shifts in market dynamics. While the Swiss watch industry refers to this dramatic era as the Quartz Crisis, the Japanese watch industry knows it as the Quartz Revolution. Traditional watchmakers had to adapt or face significant challenges as quartz watches gained widespread acceptance. This revolution also paved the way for further advancements, such as digital watches, smartwatches, and other timekeeping technologies that continue to evolve today.

The History and Evolution of Quartz Timekeeping

Quartz watch movements revolutionized the watch industry when they were introduced in the late 1960s. Before that, timepieces mainly relied on mechanical movements, which used a balance wheel and hairspring to regulate timekeeping. Quartz movements, on the other hand, utilize the properties of quartz crystals to provide extremely accurate timekeeping.

Here's a brief history of quartz watch movements as told through milestones: 

The Invention of the Quartz Crystal Oscillator (1920s-1930s): The discovery of the piezoelectric effect in quartz crystals by Jacques and Pierre Curie in the 1880s laid the foundation for quartz timekeeping. However, it wasn't until the 1920s and 1930s that scientists, including Warren Marrison and Walter G. Cady, developed practical quartz crystal oscillators that could be used for precise timekeeping.

Quartz Clocks (The late-1920s): The first application of quartz crystals for timekeeping was in the form of quartz clocks. In 1927, Warren Marrison and J.W. Horton developed the first quartz clock at Bell Telephone Laboratories. These early quartz clocks were highly accurate but were large and required external power sources.

Quartz Wristwatch Prototypes (The late-1960s): The development of miniaturized quartz movements suitable for wristwatches took place in the late 1960s. Various watch manufacturers and research teams, including Seiko in Japan, Centre Electronique Horloger (CEH) in Switzerland, and others, worked on developing quartz wristwatch prototypes.

Introduction of the Seiko Astron (1969): The first commercially available quartz wristwatch was introduced by Seiko in Japan in December 1969. Known as the Seiko Astron, it was a breakthrough in watchmaking. The Astron utilized a quartz crystal oscillator, a step motor, and an integrated circuit (IC) to provide exceptional accuracy and reliability.

Quartz Revolution and Industry Impact (The 1970s): The introduction of quartz watch movements sparked a revolution in the watch industry. Quartz watches offered superior accuracy and required less maintenance compared to their mechanical counterparts. This led to a decline in mechanical watch production and a surge in quartz watch popularity.

Introduction of Swiss Quartz Watches (The 1970s): In response to the growing dominance of Japanese quartz watches, Swiss watch manufacturers began developing their own quartz movements. For instance, the Centre Electronique Horloger (CEH) consortium of 20 Swiss watch houses created Beta-21 and Beta-22 quartz movements. Brands like Omega, Rolex, and Patek Philippe introduced Swiss-made quartz watches, combining traditional Swiss craftsmanship with quartz technology.

Digital Quartz Watches (1970s-1980s): As quartz watch technology evolved, digital quartz watches became popular. These watches featured digital displays and additional functionalities like chronographs, alarms, and calculators. Brands like Casio and Timex played a significant role in popularizing digital quartz watches.

Quartz Watch Standardization (The 1980s): The Quartz Crisis, a period of significant challenges faced by the Swiss watch industry due to the rise of quartz watches, prompted a need for standardization. In 1983, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) introduced a standard for quartz watches to ensure accuracy and performance consistency.

Ongoing Developments and Advancements: Since the initial introduction of quartz watch movements, there have been continuous advancements in technology. Manufacturers have improved the accuracy, power efficiency, and durability of quartz movements, incorporating features like solar power, atomic time synchronization, and multiple time zones.

Today, quartz watch movements remain widely used and appreciated for their accuracy, reliability, and affordability. While mechanical watches continue to hold a special place in the luxury watch market, quartz movements have made timekeeping accessible to millions of people around the world.

How Does a Quartz Movement Work?

A quartz movement in a watch operates based on the principle of the piezoelectric effect (which means they generate an electric charge when subjected to mechanical pressure or vibrations) exhibited by quartz crystals.  In the case of a quartz watch movement, an electrical charge is applied to the quartz crystal, causing it to vibrate at a precise frequency (​​typically 32,768 per second). Here's a step-by-step explanation of how a quartz movement works:

Power Source: The quartz movement is powered by a battery, usually a small button cell battery located within the watch case.

Electrical Circuit: The battery supplies electrical energy to the quartz movement, creating a continuous flow of electricity within the watch.

Quartz Crystal Oscillator: The heart of the quartz movement is a tiny piece of quartz crystal, typically shaped like a tuning fork. The crystal is usually made of synthetic quartz, which exhibits stable and predictable piezoelectric properties.

Electrical Charge: The electrical current from the battery is directed to the quartz crystal. When the electric charge reaches the crystal, it causes the crystal to vibrate at a precise frequency, typically 32,768 Hz).

Frequency Divider: The high-frequency vibrations of the quartz crystal need to be divided into more manageable time intervals, such as seconds, minutes, and hours. This is accomplished by a frequency divider circuit within the quartz movement.

Integrated Circuit (IC): The quartz movement incorporates an integrated circuit, often referred to as a "quartz module" or "quartz chip." The IC receives the vibrations from the quartz crystal and divides them into regular, precise intervals.

Step Motor: The divided electrical pulses from the IC are then sent to a step motor. The step motor converts these electrical pulses into rotational motion.

Timekeeping Hands or Display: The rotational motion produced by the step motor is used to drive the watch's hands in traditional analog quartz watches. The motion is transmitted through a series of gears, allowing the hour, minute, and sometimes second hands to move in a synchronized manner, indicating the time on the watch's dial.

Digital Display (Optional): In digital quartz watches, the rotational motion of the step motor is translated into numerical data, which is then displayed on an LCD or LED screen. This allows for a digital representation of the time.

Regulation and Accuracy: The quartz movement contains additional components, such as capacitors and resistors, which help regulate the voltage supplied to the quartz crystal. This regulation ensures that the crystal vibrates at a precise frequency, contributing to the accuracy of the watch. Most quartz watches offer high accuracy, typically within a few seconds per month.

Additional Features: Depending on the watch model and design, a quartz movement may include additional features such as date displays, chronographs, alarms, or multiple time zones. These functions are controlled by the integrated circuit and are integrated into the overall operation of the movement.

In summary, a quartz watch movement relies on the precise vibrations of a quartz crystal, powered by a battery and controlled by integrated circuits, to accurately measure and display time. Its combination of high accuracy, reliability, and low maintenance has made quartz movements popular and widely used in timepieces around the world.

What Are the Benefits of Quartz Watches? 

Quartz watch movements offer several benefits that have contributed to their popularity and widespread use. Here are some of the key advantages of quartz watches and quartz movements:

Accuracy: Quartz movements are known for their exceptional accuracy. The vibrations of the quartz crystal provide a highly stable and predictable timekeeping base, resulting in watches that can keep time within seconds per month. This accuracy surpasses most mechanical movements, which tend to have variations and require more frequent adjustments.

Reliability: Quartz movements are highly reliable and require minimal maintenance. They are less susceptible to external factors like temperature changes, shocks, or position variations, which can affect the accuracy of mechanical movements. Quartz watches can provide consistent and reliable timekeeping without the need for regular adjustments.

Affordability: Quartz watches are generally more affordable compared to their mechanical counterparts. The manufacturing processes involved in quartz movements are more streamlined and less labor-intensive, resulting in lower production costs. This affordability makes quartz watches accessible to a wider range of consumers.

Low Maintenance: Quartz watches require minimal maintenance. Unlike mechanical movements that need periodic servicing, such as lubrication and adjustments, quartz movements have fewer moving parts and do not require frequent attention. Apart from battery replacement every few years, quartz watches can often be worn without worrying about maintenance for extended periods.

Convenience: Quartz watches offer convenience in terms of timekeeping accuracy and ease of use. They typically have a higher water resistance rating, making them more suitable for daily wear, including activities like swimming or showering. Additionally, quartz watches often have features like date displays, alarms, or multiple time zones, enhancing their practicality and usability.

Variety: Quartz movements are available in a wide variety of watch styles, from classic and elegant designs to sporty or casual timepieces. The versatility of quartz movements allows for a broad range of watch options to suit different tastes, occasions, and budgets.

Long Battery Life: Quartz movements are known for their efficient energy consumption. The batteries used in quartz watches can power the movement for an extended period, typically ranging from one to five years, depending on the watch and usage. This long battery life reduces the frequency of battery replacements. Some high-end watch brands claim their batteries last up to ten years.

Availability: Quartz movements are widely available in the watch market. Numerous watch brands offer quartz watches, ranging from affordable options to luxury timepieces. This availability makes it easier for consumers to find quartz watches that match their preferences and budgets.

Overall, the benefits of quartz watch movements, which include accuracy, reliability, affordability, low maintenance, convenience, and style variety, have made them immensely popular and ubiquitous among watch enthusiasts and everyday consumers alike.

The Benefits of Pre-Owned Luxury Quartz Watches

There are several reasons why someone might choose to purchase a preowned luxury quartz watch rather than a brand new one. Here are a few advantages of buying preowned luxury quartz watches:

Cost Savings: Preowned luxury quartz watches are often available at a significantly lower price compared to their brand-new counterparts. Luxury watches can retain their value well, but purchasing preowned allows you to enjoy substantial savings. This affordability opens up opportunities to own timepieces from prestigious brands that might otherwise be out of reach.

Reduced Depreciation: Luxury watches, like many luxury goods, can experience depreciation when purchased new. By opting for a preowned luxury quartz watch, you bypass the initial depreciation, as the previous owner absorbed that cost. This can provide a more cost-effective way to enjoy a luxury timepiece without the same level of financial loss.

Value Retention: Luxury watches, including quartz models, often hold their value over time. By purchasing a preowned luxury quartz watch, you have the potential to maintain its value – or even see it appreciate if you decide to sell it in the future. This can make preowned luxury watches an attractive investment.

Access to Discontinued Models: Luxury watch brands frequently discontinue certain models, making them challenging to find them as new pieces. By exploring the preowned market, you can discover and acquire discontinued quartz watches that may have become highly sought after by collectors.

Wider Selection: The preowned market offers a broader range of options in terms of models, variations, and limited editions. If you're looking for a specific luxury quartz watch that is no longer in production or is rare due to low production numbers, the preowned market gives you a better chance of finding it compared to relying solely on authorized dealer inventory.

Vintage Appeal: Some preowned luxury quartz watches have a vintage or retro charm that can be appealing to watch enthusiasts and collectors. These timepieces often have unique designs, historical significance, or rare features that add to their desirability.

​​Condition Transparency: Reputable preowned luxury watch sellers typically provide detailed information about the condition of the timepiece, including any signs of wear or servicing history. This transparency allows you to make an informed decision and ensures you are aware of the watch's condition before purchasing.

When buying a preowned luxury quartz watch, it's essential to purchase from trusted sources such as authorized dealers, established watch dealers, or reputable online platforms specializing in preowned luxury watches. This helps ensure authenticity, quality, and a smooth transaction.

Ultimately, choosing a preowned luxury quartz watch allows you to access high-end timepieces at a more affordable price point, with the potential for value retention or even appreciation. It offers a wider selection, including discontinued or vintage models, and can be a rewarding choice for watch enthusiasts and collectors.

What Are Some Luxury Quartz Watches? 

While mechanical movements often dominate the high-end watch market, there are also luxury timepieces that feature high-end quartz movements. These watches combine the precision and reliability of quartz with exceptional craftsmanship, materials, and design. Here are a few examples of high-end quartz watches:

Grand Seiko Quartz: Grand Seiko, a subsidiary of Seiko, is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. They offer high-end quartz watches that feature their proprietary quartz movements, known for their remarkable accuracy and finishing. Grand Seiko quartz watches are often made with high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or precious metals, and showcase elegant designs.

TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 9 Quartz: TAG Heuer, a Swiss luxury watch brand, offers the Carrera Calibre 9 Quartz collection, which combines the precision of quartz with the brand's iconic Carrera design. These watches feature high-quality quartz movements, superior materials, and intricate detailing, making them desirable timepieces for watch enthusiasts.

Breitling Aerospace: Breitling, a renowned Swiss watch manufacturer, offers the Aerospace collection, which includes high-end quartz watches. The Aerospace models boast multifunctional features, including chronographs, alarms, and dual time zones. These watches are crafted with premium materials, exhibit exceptional accuracy, and cater to aviation professionals and watch enthusiasts.

Omega Constellation Quartz: Omega, a prestigious Swiss watch brand, includes the Constellation Quartz collection in its lineup. These watches combine the classic Constellation design with quartz movements. The Constellation Quartz models feature luxurious materials, such as stainless steel, gold, or diamonds, and offer exceptional accuracy and attention to detail.

Patek Philippe Nautilus Quartz: Patek Philippe, known for its exquisite timepieces, offers the Nautilus collection, which includes select models with quartz movements. The Nautilus Quartz watches showcase the brand's signature design elements, including the iconic porthole-shaped case, and incorporate high-quality materials, intricate finishing, and precise quartz movements.

F.P. Journe Élégante: The F.P. Journe Élégante is an esteemed watch model known for its blend of mechanical craftsmanship and advanced technology. It features a quartz movement with a unique power-saving mode, allowing for an exceptional 10-year power reserve. The collection reflects F.P. Journe's commitment to combining traditional watchmaking with modern innovation.

These examples demonstrate that high-end quartz watches can be found in the portfolios of renowned luxury watch brands. Some other examples of high-end watch brands that continue to offer luxury quartz watches include Cartier, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin. Rolex used to make quartz watches, notably the Oysterquartz Day-Date and Oysterquartz Datejust; however, the brand no longer produces quartz watches. 

Luxury quartz timepieces offer a combination of precision, craftsmanship, and aesthetic appeal, making them excellent choices for collectors and enthusiasts who value both the convenience of quartz and the exclusivity of luxury watchmaking.

How to Care for Quartz Watches 

Maintaining a quartz watch is generally straightforward and requires minimal effort. Here are some key maintenance practices for keeping your quartz watch in good condition:

Battery Replacement: Quartz watches are powered by batteries, which will eventually need to be replaced when they run out of power. The lifespan of a quartz watch battery can vary, but it typically lasts between one to five years, depending on the watch and usage. When the battery is low, have it replaced by a professional watchmaker or at an authorized service center.

Water Resistance: If your quartz watch is water-resistant, it's important to ensure that the seals and gaskets are intact. Over time, these seals may deteriorate, compromising the watch's water resistance. To maintain water resistance, have your watch's seals checked and replaced regularly by a professional watchmaker or service center, especially if you frequently expose your watch to water or engage in water-related activities.

Cleaning: Regularly clean your quartz watch to keep it looking its best. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe the case, crystal, and bracelet (or strap). For more thorough cleaning, you can use a mild soap and warm water solution, but avoid immersing the watch completely, especially if it's not water-resistant. Also, avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes that may scratch the watch's surfaces.

Avoid Magnets: Keep your quartz watch away from strong magnetic fields. Magnetic fields can affect the accuracy and performance of the movement. Avoid placing your watch near magnets, speakers, refrigerators, or other magnetic sources.

Storage: When you're not wearing your quartz watch, it's advisable to store it properly to protect it from damage. Consider using a watch box or pouch to shield it from dust, moisture, and potential impacts. If the watch has a screw-down crown, ensure it is properly screwed in to maintain its water resistance.

Regular Servicing: While quartz watches require less maintenance than mechanical watches, periodic servicing is still recommended. Over time, lubricants within the movement may dry up, affecting its performance. Depending on the manufacturer's recommendations, consider servicing your quartz watch every three to five years to ensure its longevity and accuracy. This servicing typically involves cleaning, lubrication, and a thorough inspection by a professional watchmaker.

Avoid Extreme Conditions: Protect your quartz watch from extreme temperature conditions, such as extreme heat or cold. Rapid temperature changes can negatively impact the watch's accuracy and potentially damage its components.

Remember, it's always a good idea to consult the manufacturer's guidelines and recommendations for specific maintenance instructions for your quartz watch. If you have any concerns or notice any irregularities with your watch, it's best to have it inspected and serviced by an authorized service center or professional watchmaker.

Explore Our Handpicked Collection of Preowned Quartz Watches

Do you want a luxurious timepiece that won’t break the bank? Then a quartz watch may be precisely what you need. At Twain Time, we are proud to offer a large assortment of pre-owned luxury quartz watches from the world’s most renowned timepiece brands. 

Whether you’re looking for something classic or sporty, dressy or casual, complicated or simple, our collection of pre-owned luxury quartz watches offers a wide variety of styles and brands to suit a range of tastes and budgets. From timeless classics to daring and contemporary statement pieces, Twain Time has something for everyone. Each timepiece in our collection has been meticulously inspected by our team of experts to ensure that it is in pristine condition and ready to be worn and enjoyed. 

Explore now our curated collection of pre-owned luxury quartz watches to discover both the aesthetic allure and affordability they offer. With brands like Patek Philippe, Rolex, Cartier, Bulgari, and more, you can browse a diverse range of styles and find the ideal high-end timepiece to enhance your collection.