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There are no easy answers as the truth is always in the details.
In this forum we give you the best of our knowledge, and inform you of the criteria, the
tolerances & the standards that define our products.
Your questions and comments are welcome.
Phone (0 2939 7030), fax (+66 (0) 29394527)
It is from you and your questions that
we learn most.
Soipetch Resanond & Philip A. Baechtold
Baechtold Ltd. Bangkok
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FAQ - frequently asked questions
What is a certified chronometer?
A mechanical movement that is certified as a
chronometer has passed seven specific tests for accuracy and quality, which
in Switzerland typically are done by the independent COSC (Controle Officiel
Suisse des Chronometeres). Movements are tested in 5 different positions, at temperatures
from 8 to 38 degrees Celsius, and over 15 days. Essentially, a movement must run
within - 4 to + 6 seconds
per day over 10 days, vary no more than 2 - 5 seconds in different
positions, and no more than 10 seconds from the mean daily test-rate.
Watch manufacturers normally test only the movements of their best pieces. But
Rolex and Ventura certify all their movements.
Why can certified chronometers still be inaccurate?
A watch is a personal object. It needs to be adjusted to the person who wears it, sometimes
several times until the match is right. Different wearing habits will
have different effects on watches.
Technical reasons why chronometers may run inaccurately: The test tests
the movement, not the watch; during
encasing which follows, minimal yet normal strains can cause changes
to the accuracy. Also, tests are performed in "ideal"
conditions, whereas real usage produces a combined impact of shocks,
temperature changes and climatic influences that are unique. Finally,
lubricants used in watches dry out and rubber or nylon gaskets
deteriorate. Sooner or later, all properties of a watch are affectd.
Therefore, watches need to be tested, adjusted and serviced regularly.
Why go to the trouble of chronometer certification if the testing
criteria cannot be considered as continuous?
To assure the buyer of a superior product! Certified chronometers,
despite some variances, will on average outperform
uncertified movements by a narrower tolerance of 1:3. It is
the reduced tolerances and the smaller margins of error
which ultimately set quality products apart.
Thus, chronometers set the barrier of relyabilty higher and reduce the
probability of error.
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