Anatomy of a Watch

Designing the perfect watch can be aided by knowing the different facets that come together to make a timepiece. Below is a short and sweet recap of the anatomy of a watch.

• Dial: The face of the watch where time and other features are displayed, often serving as the focal point of design.

• Hour Marker: The indicators on the dial mark each hour, which can range from simple dots to elaborate numerals or shapes.

• Hands: The moving pointers that indicate the hour, minute, and sometimes seconds, sweeping across the dial.

• Date Window: A small aperture on the dial that shows the current date, often located near the 3 or 6 o’clock position.

• Bezel: The ring surrounding the dial, sometimes fixed and decorative or functional and rotating, often used for timing.

• Case: The outer shell that houses and protects the internal components of the watch.

• Crown: The knob on the side of the case used to set the time and date, and in some watches, to wind the movement.

• Lugs: The protruding parts of the case where the strap or bracelet is attached, affecting both style and fit.

• Strap: The band that secures the watch to the wrist, available in various materials like leather, metal, or fabric.

• Case Back: The rear cover of the watch case, which can be solid or transparent to reveal the movement inside.

• Movement: The internal mechanism that drives the watch’s functions, often referred to as the “engine” of the watch.

• Rotor: A semicircular weight in automatic movements that spins with wrist motion to wind the watch’s mainspring.