『MASTER'S COLUMN』Basic knowledge of watches

The movement is called the heart of a watch, and it is no exaggeration to say that it is the part that each watch manufacturer focuses on the most. Whenever a new model of the same model is released, the movement is almost always improved, and we can get a glimpse of technological advances.

Mechanical and quartz

There are two types of mechanical watches: manual winding and automatic winding.

* Manual winding: By winding the crown, the internal spring is wound up, and the force of the spring unwinding moves the hands forward. Manual winding watches have a "stop winding" point, and if you continue to turn the crown beyond that point, the spring will break, so care must be taken. *Common in vintage watches. (However, some of the latest manual winding watches are equipped with a specification to prevent the spring from breaking due to going beyond the stop winding point.)

★Automatic winding: Also known as an automatic. A semicircular weight (commonly known as a rotor) is built into the watch, and the mainspring is wound up as the weight rotates. It is called "automatic winding" because the weight rotates automatically when you swing your arm.

★Quartz: Quartz = battery-powered. The watch is simply powered by a battery. Basically, you only need to replace the battery when it runs out of life, and there is no need to adjust the time every time you wear it.

The advantages and disadvantages of mechanical and quartz watches

Mechanical
【merit】
The best thing about watches is that they can be used for decades to come. Watches made by hand by artisans are worthy of being called "crafts," and some models can even be called "art." Another key point is that you can use them anytime by winding them yourself and setting the time. Also, the fact that they mark the time of your life goes beyond the boundaries of industrial products in a sense.

【Demerit】
First of all, it is more expensive than a quartz watch. Also, as you can see from the technique used, the precisely made parts need to be inspected regularly, so you need to be prepared to spend a certain amount on maintenance costs. Another advantage is that the watch will stop if you don't wear it for a while, so if you don't want to bother with winding and setting the time, a quartz watch might be a good choice.

Quartz
【merit】
Because they are battery-powered, they tend to be more accurate than mechanical watches. Also, they tend to be less expensive than mechanical watches, so the barrier to purchase is relatively low.

【Demerit】
If your watch stops, you will need to replace the battery. This will require opening the case, so you will generally need to take it to a repair shop.

There are some more advanced features, but we'll talk about them in the next issue.

Genuine and parallel imports

Finally, let me say a few words about genuine products and parallel imports.

When you hear the terms "official" and "parallel imports," you might be inclined to think that "official" means "genuine" and "parallel imports" means "fake." But what about you? If you're going to buy a luxury watch, you want to buy it from a trusted "official store!" I'm sure there are many people who think that way. But the bottom line is that this way of thinking is actually wrong. I'll explain while touching on the purchasing method.

[Official Import]
Official imports involve wholesale of goods to domestic stores that have an "agency" contract with the headquarters of each manufacturer overseas (such as ROLEX or PATEK PHILLIPE), and then distributing the watches through domestic retailers and dealers.

[Parallel import]
Parallel imports involve purchasing products that are wholesaled to overseas directly managed stores or authorized distributors, and then distributing them domestically.

As mentioned above, in fact, both

It's the real deal .

So what is the difference? I will explain it in a little more detail.

The difference between genuine and parallel imports

What is the difference between genuine and parallel imports? We will list the advantages of each for easy understanding.

【 Genuine 】

・The name on the guarantee (warranty) can be in your own name

・The services available vary depending on the brand (of course, authorized stores offer the best service)

・Always available at regular price

[Parallel import]

・You can buy products that are not available in Japan

・Depending on the exchange rate, you can purchase it cheaper than at a regular store

That's about it in a nutshell. Which benefit matches your values? If you think about it purely, the answer will become clear. Also, if it's a way to get what you want when you feel like it, I don't think it matters which one you choose.

Of course, many people are concerned about aftercare and other services. However, at times like these, we recommend that you directly ask the store where you purchased the product, "What kind of aftercare do you provide?"

This is because a reputable store will provide a warranty and repairs for this item.

= (equal) Because it is proof that we are a "trustworthy store."

summary

What did you think? This time we covered the most basic of basics, but these are points that you should remember as an introduction to luxury watches.

Many of the names of parts are written in foreign letters, so if you understand them, you can communicate with the staff at the watch shop more smoothly. Also, knowing the difference between genuine and parallel parts is necessary knowledge to avoid losing out and is also a shortcut to making a purchase you won't regret.

If you make a decision based on "something" or "a vague rumor" then the amount involved will be large and the regret you will feel if you fail will be great.

We hope you enjoy buying and selling at the right price with the right knowledge. We are always available to give you advice, so if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us or come to our store.

see you.