The chronograph can be described as the Swiss army knife of the watch world. Over the years, they have increased in popularity owing to the extra functionality and practicability they add to your wrist. In case you’re wondering, a chronogram is a type of movement that combines the functions of a display watch and a stopwatch. This enables you to read the time, time events, and many more. The chronograph has become the perfect everyday watch. If you still don’t have one in your collection, then here’s a quick guide to help you get started.
A Step Back in History
First, it’s interesting to learn a few interesting facts about the chronograph. While it seems as if chronographs are fairly new, they actually date back to the early 1800s. But the chronographs we’ve come to love rose in prominence only in the mid-1900s. Back then, the use of chronographs was almost limited to aviators since they need it to calculate speed and distance while recording the time accurately. A few years later, chronographs had been a mainstay in the US space program. Thanks to small yet revolutionary innovations, chronographs are now popular not only for its different functionalities but its rich heritage as well.
Primary Features of a Chronograph
- Stopwatch – One of the most iconic features of a chronograph watch is a stopwatch. If you think you have no use for a stopwatch, you might be surprised. It comes in handy if you want to time your workouts, keep track of how long the dinner’s been in the oven, or remind you how many minutes are left before you need to get back to work.
- Calculation Bezel – Ever noticed the scale of numbers lining the outside of the bezel? These numbers are used to calculate speeds, distances, and intervals. The tachymeter is the most popular scale used in chronographs. It can be used to time an object that travels along a given distance.
- Pushers – The button found on either side of the crown is called a pusher. Usually, the top pusher is used to start and stop the time. The bottom pusher, meanwhile, resets the time.
Best Chronograph Watches for Different Budgets
Parmigiani Fleurier – Kalpa Chronor
If you want a chronograph watch that’s second to none, then be sure to look at Parmigiani. It’s Kalpa Chronor is one of the hottest chronograph watches on the market today. This elegant timepiece features an integrated chronograph housed in 18-ct rose gold. The tonneau shape is a hallmark of Parmigiani, making the watch a true head-turner. The gold movement is explicitly designed to fit inside the case without compromising the contents and the gorgeous exterior aesthetics.
Omega Speedmaster Professional
Omega is a household name in the watch industry. No list of the best chronograph watches is complete without mentioning this iconic watch. The Omega Speedmaster is nicknamed the “Moonwatch” because it was worn during the 1965 American spacewalk and the 1969 Apollo 11 mission. After five long decades, the Speedmaster continues to be a favorite among watch enthusiasts. The fact that it hasn’t had any major changes tells a lot about its timelessness.
Seiko SNN079P2 Chronograph
Looking for something more affordable? Then the Seiko SNN079P2 chronograph is a fantastic choice. Seiko is a watch brand known for offering much more than other brands in the same price points. This military-inspired chronograph comes with two subdials and dial on the left side that features a multi-date display. It gives you all the standout features of a chronograph without putting a dent in your pocket.