Connected watch vs automatic watch: the match!

Since the launch of the Apple Watch in 2014, there has been a real craze surrounding smartwatches. Since then, Apple has released 15 new versions, but other brands like Fitbit and Samsung are also holding their own. This raises the question of whether the automatic watch still has a place and if it is destined to disappear. While some had predicted the end of... automatic watches with the appearance of quartz watches In the 1970s, automatic watches remained very popular and continue to enjoy great success. In recent years, smartwatches have developed considerably, but automatic watches remain highly valued and haven't suffered the same decline in popularity as these newer models. So how can we explain this phenomenon? These two watches They each share a very different vision and are not necessarily intended for the same uses. Today, Team Charlie Paris presents the specific features and advantages of these two types of watches.

The advantages of a smartwatch and an automatic watch 

• The ecological aspect: An automatic watch is more environmentally friendly than a smartwatch. This is because automatic watches contain no electronic components or batteries. Therefore, by purchasing an automatic watch, you are choosing a durable and eco-friendly timepiece. Conversely, smartwatches are very energy-intensive and powered by a battery that needs frequent recharging.

• Sustainability: The lifespan of an automatic watch is longer than that of a smartwatch. Indeed, an automatic watch can last you over 20 years, or even longer if you take good care of it! And if a problem arises, a watchmaker will certainly be able to repair your timepiece. As for smartwatches, they have a much shorter lifespan; like our smartphones, they become obsolete after just a few years.

• Autonomy: Regarding battery life, smartwatches and automatic watches are also very different. Smartwatches discharge faster than automatic watches and need to be charged more frequently. Like smartphones, smartwatches run on batteries, so they need to be recharged regularly. On average, a smartwatch offers between 2 and 16 days of battery life, depending on the model. This short battery life can be a deterrent to purchase. To give you an idea, Samsung Galaxy Watches and Apple Watches need to be recharged every two days, or even daily if worn continuously. In the best-case scenario, smartwatches offer thirty days of battery life, but this is very rare. Automatic watches, on the other hand, generally offer 40 hours of battery life. However, if you wear your automatic watch every day, it recharges itself thanks to the movements of your wrist, and its battery life is then unlimited! An automatic watch only needs to be wound if you don't wear it regularly.

• The price: In terms of price, you'll find both low-cost and higher-priced smartwatches and automatic watches. At the entry level, you can find all types of watches, whether smartwatches or automatics, for under €100. Luxury smartwatches and automatic watches are significantly more expensive. For example, Apple offers a luxury version of the Apple Watch.This very high-end version corresponds to the Watch Edition model, a model with Case The gold version is available from €11,000 and the most luxurious version is offered at €18,000. As for the price of automatic or smartwatches, it varies; you can find automatic watches for less than 200€.

• The precision: Although both types of watches tell the time, a smartwatch will be more accurate than an automatic watch because it can connect to your smartphone to synchronize. Automatic watches have relatively limited accuracy, with a drift of approximately 5 to 15 seconds per day (depending on the movement). However, if accuracy is essential for you, you should consider a smartwatch or a quartz watch. Smartwatches are more accurate but have less battery life and a shorter lifespan than automatic watches. If you are hesitating between these two types of watches, we advise you to choose based on the criterion you consider most important.

• Features: In addition to telling the time, automatic watches can offer certain complications such as a calendar display, power reserve indicator, or 24-hour dial. However, smartwatches offer many features that an automatic watch cannot. Connected to your phone via Bluetooth, smartwatches allow access to various applications and offer a wide range of functionalities. Today, a smartwatch represents a true extension of your phone and is appreciated for its numerous features. This type of watch allows you to listen to music, receive calls, check your messages, get weather forecasts, pay for your purchases contactless, and much more. The integrated voice assistant is one of the most requested and advanced features in terms of technological advancement. Smartwatches also find their full potential thanks to dedicated applications. For example: step counting, calorie expenditure estimation, heart rate monitoring… These numerous features are both the strength and the weakness of this type of timepiece. Indeed, the many features of this type of watch are a double-edged sword, as they help you but also connect you even more. With this type of watch, you don't truly disconnect from time since you are constantly in contact with a multitude of information.

• The symbolism: While price isn't the sole deciding factor between an automatic watch and a smartwatch, other elements can make a difference, such as the symbolism of each. An automatic watch is a true piece of jewelry, a symbol of history and watchmaking expertise. A smartwatch, on the other hand, isn't jewelry but rather a testament to the latest technological advancements. If you're looking for an authentic watch, to wear like a piece of jewelry, then choose a beautiful mechanical watch with automatic winding. An automatic model will accompany you elegantly for many years, without requiring daily winding. If you're more of a tech enthusiast, a smartwatch will be perfect for you. Furthermore, if you already own several connected devices, a smartwatch will be a very useful addition thanks to its dedicated apps. 

Smartwatch and automatic watch, a real match?

In conclusion, there's no such thing as a good or bad watch, whether it's an automatic or a smartwatch. Each type of mechanism has its advantages and disadvantages. It's up to you to decide what best suits your needs, budget, tastes, and preferences. Are you drawn to authenticity, the charm of tradition, or to new technologies? This is why automatic watches will undoubtedly always have their place and their audience, even though smartwatches are experiencing a real boom. At Charlie Paris, we believe a smartwatch is useful for sports because it allows for tracking, however, its everyday usefulness seems limited. Furthermore, with a smartwatch, we're never truly disconnected because we receive numerous notifications. Buying a watch also means embracing a brand's world and values.

DISCOVER THE CHARLIE PARIS COLLECTIONS

At Charlie Paris, we share this vision which is that a watch gives more than just the time; it conveys emotions that only the person wearing it can feel. If You are sensitive to this vision, to the symbolism of a piece of jewelry, to our commitments And if you value the features that drive our brand, choose an automatic watch that will last a lifetime. Conversely, if you're a fan of new technologies and numerous features, a smartwatch is more suitable.

All our watches are designed and assembled in France, in our workshop located above our boutique in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, guaranteeing precise watchmaking expertise and meticulous attention to detail.

Among our collections, here are two iconic timepieces that reflect our vision of watchmaking:

Collection Initial : A true tribute to traditional watchmaking, the collection Initial offers automatic watches with clean lines. Designed for lovers of fine mechanics, they combine a sophisticated design with reliable movements, visible through a transparent case back.

Monceau : Inspired by Parisian elegance, the collection Monceau is distinguished by its Case Octagonal with refined facets. Designed for women seeking a unique timepiece, it blends delicacy and character in a design that is both classic and modern.