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In the world of watchmaking, certain terms are often confused. This is the case of a chronometer watch, but also with a chronometer watch (without accent). These two spellings designate the same idea: a mechanical watch having passed precision tests and obtained an official certification. Swiss Made Watch magazine reveals what it is for, and why it really matters!
COSC certification: what is it?
THE Cosc (Official Swiss Chronometers control) is an independent organization in Switzerland. To obtain certification, a movement is tested during 15 consecutive daysIn 5 different positions and at 3 temperatures. The precision criteria are demanding: for an automatic movement, the average daily difference must remain between -4 and +6 seconds per day. Only the mechanical movements that pass all tests receive the title of stopwatch.
Concretely, a chronometer watch COSC certified is distinguished by higher precision and regularity to most watches not certified.
Why buy a chronometer watch?
Choose a chronometer watchit is to favor a Ultra precise mechanical movementsettled and validated by an independent organization. For the user, we gain in serenity: the watch holds the time, on a daily basis, and testifies to a real assembly and adjustment care.
Clearly, we buy from precisionfrom the rigor and a controlled reliability According to established and recognized Swiss standards.
Is a stopwatch?
Historically, the chronometer watches cost more than the non -certified models. This difference still exists today, but it has been reduced. Brands like Tissot,, Mido,, FORMEX Or Ba111od Now offer much more accessible certified COSC models, sometimes even under the psychological bar of € 1,000. Result: more amateurs can benefit from a chronometric precision without switching to very high budgets.
On this subject, we also made you, on Swiss Made Watch magazine, a zoom on the Swiss watch brand H992 which offers certified COSC watches at reasonable prices. This house offers a whole set of models focusing on a very current sport/chic design, high -flying finishes and precision certification. In short, the H992 watches offer a combo that some will consider to be tackling all the boxes!
So we find today chronometer watches At more democratic prices that retain their main interest: a measured and validated precision.
Do not confuse “chronometer” and “chronograph”
- Stopwatch : watch whose movement has been tested and COSC certified for its precision.
- Chronograph : complication allowing make short time via dedicated pushers and meters.
The two concepts are therefore independent! A watch can thus be chronograph without being a chronometer, and vice versa. Some parts combine both, but it is important to distinguish during a purchase …
In summary: if precision is your priority, orient yourself towards COSC certified chronometers. The current ranges make these performances more accessible than ever, than you are looking for a dressed tocante or a more sporty room. In this way, modern chronometer watches prove that it is quite possible to combine mechanical tradition and controlled precision without exploding your budget!
