What is a chronograph?

A chronograph is a timepiece with independent sweep seconds hand that can be started, stopped, and reset to zero. It's essentially a stopwatch function integrated into a watch. Unlike a simple watch that only tells the time, a chronograph can measure the duration of events.

Key features and aspects of a chronograph include:

• Start/Stop/Reset Functions: Typically operated by pushers on the side of the watch case, these controls initiate, halt, and return the chronograph hands to their starting position.
• Subdials: Smaller dials on the main watch face that record elapsed time in minutes, hours, and sometimes seconds. These vary in number and function depending on the complexity of the chronograph.
• Sweep Seconds Hand: The central seconds hand that is activated and deactivated by the chronograph mechanism to measure elapsed time. This is distinct from the watch's regular seconds hand (if present).
• Tachymeter: A scale, usually located on the bezel, that allows the user to calculate speed based on travel time over a fixed distance.
• Movement: Chronographs can be either mechanical (manual or automatic winding) or quartz. Mechanical chronographs are often prized for their complexity and craftsmanship. Quartz chronographs are generally more accurate and affordable.

Chronographs are popular for their functionality and aesthetic appeal. They are widely used in sports, aviation, and other fields where accurate time measurement is crucial.