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Automatic or quartz: what changes in everyday use?

A clear guide to the ownership differences between automatic and quartz watches.

Detail of the Rumoe Nobel Royal case

The movement is the mechanism that keeps a watch running. Automatic and quartz watches both tell the time, but owning them involves different routines.

What automatic means

An automatic watch is mechanical. It stores energy in a mainspring, and movement of the wrist helps wind that spring. If it is left unworn long enough to use its stored energy, it stops. That is part of normal operation: the watch needs winding and setting before it is worn again.

What quartz means

A quartz movement uses electrical energy and a quartz oscillator to regulate timekeeping. Many quartz watches use a replaceable battery. They are generally the more convenient choice if your priority is accurate timekeeping with little daily attention.

Choosing an everyday watch

An automatic watch appeals to people who enjoy a mechanical object and do not mind occasionally setting it. It should not be chosen on the assumption that it will be more accurate than quartz.

The Rumoe Nobel Royal uses a Seiko NH35 automatic movement. For operating instructions, follow the guidance supplied with your watch or ask us for help.

Explore the selected Nobel Royal watches.

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