Good evening everyone!
This week, we have a new series, In this new project, we will explain the basics of luxury watches in an easy-to-understand way, for those who are not very familiar with luxury watches and those who want to learn more about them.
This is the 18th time
[ Introduction to Luxury Watches ]: 『 Split-Second Chronograph 』
Luxury watches have a variety of functions. Among them, the "split-second chronograph" is known as one of the most complicated chronograph functions. However, it is also true that not many people can actually explain what the "split-second chronograph" function is. In this article, we will explain the functions and mechanisms of the "split-second chronograph," which is surprisingly unknown.
What is a "split-second chronograph"?
『 Split-second chronograph 』 =
" A function that allows you to measure two lap times with two hands "
A "split-second chronograph" is a complex mechanism that has two second counter hands, a chronograph hand and a split-second hand, on the same axis, allowing it to measure two lap times.
When you press the start button, the two overlapping hands start moving at the same time, and when you press the split second button, only one of the second hands stops, while the other continues to move " separately " without stopping . When you press the split second button again, the stopped hand instantly moves to the position of the moving hand, and you can measure the time again. It is mainly used for timing two runners or lap times in a race.
Also known as "Rattrapante" in French, it is known as the most complicated mechanism among the many chronograph functions. It originally appeared in pocket watches in the 1880s , and in the 1900s , the function began to be installed in wristwatches. Since it is very difficult to manufacture such a "split-second chronograph", it is only manufactured by a few brands with the technical capabilities.
Difference from the "Flyback Chronograph"
The difference between the two is very simple and comes down to the mechanism and the number of needles.
The "flyback chronograph" remeasures one measurement hand with one operation.
On the other hand
The split-second chronograph measures time with two hands.
The structure of the "split-second chronograph"
A typical "chronograph" has a special gear attached to the chronograph hand. This gear is normally stationary and starts moving when the chronograph measurement button is pressed.
In contrast, a "split-seconds chronograph" has a split-seconds hand and gears in addition to the standard chronograph seconds hand and gears.
*General "chronograph" [Chronograph second hand + chronograph gears] * Split-second chronograph [Chronograph second hand + chronograph gears] + [Split-second hand + gear for split-seconds]
These two second hands and two gears are mounted on the same shaft, connected, and usually move together. However, when the measurement button of the "split-second chronograph" is pressed, a part called a "clamp" clamps the split-second gear and breaks the connection. At this time, a part called a "heart cam" for the split-second hand moves at the same time as the chronograph gear. This is how the split-second hand overlaps with the chronograph second hand when the split-second button is pressed again.
Why are split-second chronographs so rare?
There are many watches with chronograph functions, but watches with "split-second chronographs" are rarely seen. As the title says, we are often asked "Why are they so rare?", but the answer is simply "because they are difficult to make."
Some people may think, "It's just a chronograph with one more hand added..." However, because the "split-second chronograph" measures two times simultaneously, the load on the movement is very large, and its production requires advanced technology.
These two second hands and gears are mounted on the same shaft, and the force required to move the hands is small, making them very easy to stop. In addition, the axis of the hands is longer, which increases the resistance, making them even more likely to stop.
Thus, even for brands that are capable of making chronographs, split-second chronographs, which are prone to malfunction, are not easily manufactured due to the high risk involved in production. As a result, only a small number of them are produced, making them a rare find.
summary
I have explained about the "split-second chronograph", but what do you think?
The "split-second chronograph," known as the pinnacle of chronographs, requires highly advanced technology to manufacture, and few brands can make it, making it a very rare watch. Of course, the price tends to be high, and it is not easy to get your hands on one. However, that is exactly why it continues to fascinate watch fans and is said to be a coveted watch.
I hope that after reading this article, you will become interested in luxury watches!
see you!