Manual vs. Automatic Movements

Mechanical movements can be categorized into two types: manual and automatic.

●    Manual Movements: These require regular winding by hand to store energy in the mainspring. The wearer needs to wind the watch daily, ensuring it continues to run accurately. Manual movements offer a direct connection between the wearer and the watch, emphasizing the craftsmanship involved.

●    Automatic Movements: Also known as self-winding, automatic movements harness the motion of the wearer’s wrist to wind the mainspring. A rotor inside the watch, which moves as the wrist moves, converts this motion into energy. Automatic watches offer the convenience of not needing manual winding while still providing the intricate mechanics of a mechanical timepiece.

1. Design and Engineering
Before assembly begins, the watch’s design is carefully engineered. This includes designing the movement’s layout, selecting materials, and ensuring the watch’s overall functionality. Advanced technology and traditional techniques are combined to achieve the desired design and performance.

2. Component Manufacturing
Each component of a mechanical watch is crafted with precision. Parts such as gears, springs, and escapements are made from high-quality materials like stainless steel, brass, or even precious metals. These components must be meticulously shaped and finished to ensure smooth operation and longevity.

3. Assembly
The assembly of a mechanical watch is a delicate process. Watchmakers use specialized tools and techniques to fit each part together. The assembly includes installing the movement into the case, aligning the gears, and ensuring the accuracy of the timekeeping. This process often requires several hours of skilled labor.

4. Testing and Adjustment
Once assembled, the watch undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its accuracy and reliability. Watchmakers make fine adjustments to calibrate the movement and ensure it keeps precise time. Testing also involves assessing the watch’s durability and functionality under various conditions.

1. Artistry and Craftsmanship
The artistry involved in creating mechanical watches is a major draw. Each timepiece represents a fusion of technical skill and artistic expression. The visible movement of gears and springs through the watch’s case back or dial can be absolutely mesmerizing, showcasing the watchmaker’s skill and attention to detail.

2. Tradition and Heritage
Mechanical watches have a rich history, with many brands boasting centuries of tradition. Owning a mechanical watch often means becoming part of this heritage, appreciating the craftsmanship that has evolved over generations.

3. Emotional Connection
Mechanical watches often hold sentimental value. The process of winding a manual watch or observing the movement of an automatic watch creates a personal connection between the wearer and the timepiece. This connection is often enhanced by the watch’s design, history, and the story behind its creation.

4. Longevity and Collectibility
Mechanical watches are built to last, often becoming heirlooms passed down through generations. Their durability and the craftsmanship involved make them collectible items. Many collectors appreciate the intricate mechanisms and the artistry involved in mechanical watchmaking, making these timepieces valuable investments.

General Guide to Watch Brands

When it comes to choosing the perfect timepiece, understanding the options available is crucial. This guide introduces you to the prestigious watch brands offered by Bliss Jewelers, detailing their notable collections, and reasons why these brands stand out.