What are the Prevalent Materials, Sizes and Shapes of Watch Cases?

What are the Prevalent Materials, Sizes and Shapes of Watch Cases?

Watch case is metal housing containing internal watch movement and parts. Most watch cases are constructed from sturdy, durable stainless steel which contains chromium to prevent corrosion and rust. They are usually silver in color, but can be plated in a layer of gold measuring 1/1000 mm in thickness either completely or partially to add accent to the watch. Through the process of ionic plating or PVD (physical vapor deposition), stainless steel cases can be manufactured in various colors (usually in a matte finish).

Gold

Traditionally most gold watches are yellow gold, but gold watches come in other forms such as rose gold. This is a pinkish tint that occurs from the higher concentrations of copper in its alloy mix. When you are purchasing a watch consider the purity or fineness of the gold as expressed in karats. One karat equals 1/24th of pure gold. This means an 18 karat gold watch is 75% pure gold and a 14 karat gold watch equals 58% pure gold.

Watch cases can also be made from other precious metals such as platinum (only luxury watches), sterling silver, aluminum (extremely corrosion-resistant), tungsten, ceramic, carbon fiber or any other durably solid alloy. Sports watch cases are made from materials that can withstand rugged activities such as hardened rubber, plastic or resin.

Using the information below you can determine the look, size and feel when buying a watch online without ever seeing it in person just by glancing at the watch’s product specifications.

Size

They are measured in millimeters according to three measurements as;

  • Diameter
  • Thickness
  • Band Width

Shapes

A watch case usually has one of 4 common shapes, round, square, rectangular and Tonneau. Below are descriptions of the 4 common wrist watch shapes.

Round

Direct descendants of the popular pocket watch shape. Most sport watches are circular since this is the easiest shape to manufacturer water-resistant.

Square

More commonly found in fashion watches as they provide more surface area for decoration.

Rectangular

This shape is more conducive to the dress watch as it is easier to fit under the sleeve.

Tonneau

This is a unique retro style featuring a slim profile which a tall orientation, flat top and bottom, and sides that bulge out resembling a barrel. Tonneau-shaped watches are considered dress watches. Of course, you would like to have the best one for yourself or to give it as a gift to someone, well, we recommend Frederique Constant, the best from Switzerland.

When you buy a Frederique Constant watch, it is essential to find about its maintenance because maintenance is necessary to maintain its look, accuracy and longevity. This can be performed by reading the watch manual that comes with your watch as this will be your most valuable resource. Below are some general tips in caring for your watch.

Watch Case

Wipe with a lint-free microfiber cloth and use a toothpick to extract dirt from crevices. Water-resistant watches can be wiped with warm water and mild soap then dried with a cloth. If you have worn your watch in salty or chlorinated water then rinse the watch in fresh water afterward and dry with a cloth. Wipe your watch with the cloth after heavy perspiration.

Crystal

Be careful to not throw your Frederique Constant watch onto hard surfaces such as drawers, countertops and dressers. Not even scratch-resistant crystals are 100% scratch proof. Wrap it in a soft cloth or place into its original watch case after taking it off. If your watch crystal becomes scratched, replace it immediately as even hairline cracks can allow moisture and dust in to the internal mechanisms that affect its accuracy.

Metal Bracelets

These can be washed in warm water with mild soap. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to extract dirt and grime. Dry with a soft cloth.

Leather Straps

Avoid excess contact with water and if your Frederique Constant watch becomes wet, wipe it dry with a soft cloth. Wear leather straps loosely in hot weather to avoid absorption of perspiration. Store them in well-ventilated areas.

Winding

Automatic Frederique Constant watches are wound by the kinetic movement of your wrist and if not worn for several days will require manual winding. If you do not wear your watch daily, wind the watch twice per week at the same time of day. This will keep it running approximately 40 hours.

Many Frederique Constant watch owners switch between one or more automatic watches. If this is the case consider a watch winder that can hold several timepieces to keep your automatic watches properly wound. Higher-end watch winders have a ‘turn and rest’ program which simulates the start and stopping of the natural daily activity.

Professional Maintenance Service

It is always a good idea to bring your Frederique Constant watch in for professional service every so often for internal cleaning, oiling and precise sizing. If you notice your watch is running slow, fast, contains moisture or anything else that deviates from its original condition, take it to a professional as soon as possible.

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