Understanding the Value of
Mens Mechanical Watches

Traditional mechanical watches were made with analogue dials (hands). This was based on the invention by Peter Henlein (1480–1542). It is made up of about 130 parts.

These parts are assembled in the three main sections: the source of energy, the regulating parts, and the display. What makes this type of watch special is the number of parts that varies depending on the function the watch has.

Mens mechanical watches involve a set of complicated system of precise mechanisms like coils, gears, and springs. The system functions base on a main spring within the watch. This main spring has to be wound either by hand or by "automatic movement" (i.e. self winding).

Then this energy stored in the spring is transferred to the hands of the watch via a balance wheel to function with precision timing. The internal mechanisms require intricately balanced working movements to achieve accurate time.

Many watch collectors choose to buy mechanical watches that can record the phases of the moon, keep a record of the date, as well as record time on a daily basis.

If you are thinking of buying one, you should be aware that although all the springs and gears are charming and beautiful, they will require regular servicing.

When buying a Swiss mechanical, you should be aware that some watches that claim to be Swiss only because they are using a Swiss movement. They can be built by other companies that might not be Swiss (e.g. Japanese companies).

So check carefully that the watch is a true Swiss mens watch before you buy it, if you intend on collecting these watches.

There are a few Swiss watch making companies, including Valjoux and ETA (ETA was the movement manufacturing division of Eterna until 1932 when it split off and joined Ebauches S.A), that make mechanisms found in many popular brands.

However, the very best watchmakers, like Patek Philippe, Vacheron, and Jaeger LeCoultre, make their own mechanisms.

Traditional mens mechanical watches can take up from nine months to two years to assemble. Therefore, they can cost thousands of dollars to buy. If cost is a constraint, the other option is to go for a modern one instead.

These watches have the traditional quartz movement but they get their energy the same way as a self-winding mechanical movement. This will cost you much less in both price and upkeep.

Swiss mechanicals are not as commonly found as quartz-crystal watches these days. This means they can be quite expensive.

Still the benefits of mens mechanical watches are tenfold for a watch enthusiast. There is nothing quite like exploring and watching the movements inside of a mechanical watch.

They have been made through years of experience and expert craftsmanship, and are a working piece of history.

Return from Mens Mechanical Watches back to Mens Watches Guide