The Complete Glossary of Watch Terms Every Collector Should Know

Speak Watch Like a Pro

The watch world has its own vocabulary. Here is every term you need to know.

A

• Automatic self-winding movement powered by wrist motion
• AR coating anti-reflective coating on crystal

B

• Bezel ring around the crystal, may rotate
• Balance wheel oscillating wheel that regulates timekeeping

C

• Calibre specific model of movement
• Chronograph stopwatch function
• Chapter ring ring between dial and crystal
• Crystal transparent cover over the dial

D

• Dial the face of the watch
• Deployment clasp folding buckle on bracelet

G-H

• Gasket rubber seal for water resistance
• GMT Greenwich Mean Time second time zone
• Hacking seconds hand stops when crown is pulled

L-M

• Lug protrusions that hold the strap
• Lume phosphorescent material that glows
• Mainspring coiled spring that stores energy

R-S

• Rotor weighted disc that winds automatic movement
• Rotating bezel bezel that turns for timing
• Screw-down crown crown that threads into case

W

• Water resistance depth rating for water exposure

Frequently Asked Questions

What does NH35 mean?
NH = Seiko movement family, 35 = specific model with date and hand-winding.