Chronographs

Chronographs: the stopwatch on your wrist

A chronograph is a watch that, alongside telling the time, has a stopwatch function. Two pushers on the side of the case let you start, stop and reset elapsed time – usually read off additional sub-dials on the dial. This blend of functionality and bold design makes the chronograph one of the most popular watch types of all. At Uhrinstinkt you will find both new and high-quality pre-owned chronographs (Certified Pre-Owned) from leading manufacturers – each one inspected by our watchmakers.

How does a chronograph work?

The upper pusher starts and stops the measurement, the lower one resets the hands to zero. The timed interval is shown via a central stop-seconds hand and sub-dials for minutes and hours. Important: a chronograph is not the same as a chronometer – the latter denotes a watch certified for rate accuracy, regardless of any stopwatch function.

Chronograph and movement

Most chronographs are mechanical automatic watches whose movement is wound by the motion of the wrist. There are also precise, low-maintenance quartz watches with a stopwatch function. Both variants have their strengths – mechanical chronographs score on collector's value, quartz chronographs on high accuracy.

Who is a chronograph for?

The chronograph is ideal for anyone seeking a sporty, functional watch with character. You will find it especially often among men's watches, though the ladies' segment offers elegant models too. If you also need a second time zone, you will find it among our GMT watches.

Buy chronographs with confidence at Uhrinstinkt

Every chronograph undergoes a careful technical and visual inspection before sale. We provide a 24-month Uhrinstinkt guarantee on new watches and 12 months on Certified Pre-Owned models. This way you buy your chronograph with the security of a specialist dealer.

Frequently asked questions about chronographs

What is the difference between a chronograph and a chronometer?
A chronograph is a watch with a stopwatch function; a chronometer is a watch certified for rate accuracy. Both terms can also apply to the same watch.

Can I leave the stopwatch function running permanently?
With many mechanical chronographs this is not advised, as continuous operation puts more strain on the movement. When in doubt, the model's instruction manual will help.

Are chronographs suitable for everyday wear?
Yes. Many chronographs are robust automatic watches and are excellent for daily use.