Everything you need to know about watches with quartz movements

It is impossible to study the history of watchmaking and timepieces without highlighting the role of quartz and its movements. quartz watches are the most widespread on the watch market, but what is a watch with a quartz movement and what are its specific characteristics? 

The origin of the quartz movement 

In the 19th century, innovations in electricity and quartz advanced the watchmaking industry. It all began in 1880 when two French physicists, Pierre and Jacques Curie, decided to study quartz and discovered an interesting property of the mineral: its piezoelectric effect. This effect means that under a certain pressure, quartz can generate electricity. Despite this discovery, it wasn't until 1927 that this property was exploited. The Americans Warren Morrison and J.W Horton created the first quartz clock, but it was very bulky. It wasn't until the 1960s that the Swiss watch industry launched the first quartz watch prototypes, but it was the Japanese company Seiko that commercialized the first quartz watch. However, the quartz watch experienced a real surge in popularity in the 1970s. The quartz movement watch is now the most widely sold type of watch in the world, despite the intense debate surrounding the... automatic watch.

What are the advantages of a quartz movement?

Now that you have a better understanding of the origins and operation of a quartz watch, here is a brief summary of the many advantages it offers: 

• The precision : Unbeatable! Quartz watches have an accuracy of a few seconds per month, which is one of the reasons they created such a "tidal wave" when they first appeared. These watches are battery-powered and therefore have a very precise and reliable mechanism.
• There resistance : Quartz movements are less fragile than mechanical movements, which are composed of many more parts. Quartz is more resistant to shocks and vibrations. Unlike mechanical movements, a quartz movement requires no special maintenance, other than changing the battery (approximately every two years). 
• The price : Quartz watches are less expensive than mechanical watches. This is because quartz watches are offered at lower prices due to their relatively few components. Therefore, if you're looking for an inexpensive watch, a quartz watch is a good option. 
• The thickness : Quartz movements have the advantage of being thinner than most mechanical watches. If you're looking for a slim watch and don't have €10,000 to spend, a quartz watch offers a distinct advantage. 

What are the disadvantages of a quartz movement? 

While quartz watches offer many advantages and are the most widespread on the market, these timepieces do have some drawbacks. The main disadvantages of a quartz watch are related to its battery and its lifespan:

• A quartz watch battery typically lasts about two years, depending on usage and the movement's power consumption. Therefore, you'll need to visit your watchmaker more frequently than for a mechanical watch, which is recommended for servicing every five years.

• Its durability is less than that of a mechanical watch.You can always repair a mechanical watch, whereas this isn't necessarily the case with an electronic quartz movement. Quartz watches could be compared to modern cars, and mechanical watches to classic cars that you can always have repaired. 

Furthermore, quartz watches don't always hold great appeal for watch enthusiasts because they aren't particularly interesting in terms of technical sophistication and craftsmanship. Enthusiasts and those who appreciate the complexity of a watch movement tend to prefer automatic watches. Nevertheless, quartz watches remain a good option for anyone looking for an attractive and affordable timepiece.

Charlie Paris quartz watches: precision, elegance and personalization

Charlie Paris quartz watches combine refinement and practicality, offering reliable timekeeping without the need for winding. Whether you're looking for a slim and elegant watch or a robust and sporty timepiece, our quartz collections suit every style.

For men: design and performance

• Horizon : Available in two versions, this refined watch comes in a 39mm size for a clean, minimalist style and a 40mm size with a chronograph function, ideal for those seeking an extra sporty touch. Its sapphire crystal ensures optimal scratch resistance.
  
• Concordia 38 : Designed for exploration, this boldly designed watch is water-resistant to 300 meters and features a screw-down crown for enhanced protection. Its sapphire crystal and its Case Its robustness makes it an ideal ally for adventure lovers.
  

For women: elegance and character

• Sully : Available in 24 mm (Sully Available in Mini, 30mm and 35mm sizes, this timeless watch captivates with its delicate design and slim profile. For an extra touch of poetry, the Sully Moon Phase It incorporates a refined moon display under a protective sapphire crystal.
  
• Aurore 32 : Designed for modern women, this versatile watch combines elegance and robustness with 10 ATM water resistance and a Strap Steel. Available in several bright colors such as pastel pink, pistachio green or sky blue, it brings a vibrant touch to every wrist.

A Strap interchangeable for more freedom

All our models, with the exception of theAurore Quartz, are equipped with a flash pump system, allowing for quick changes of Strap without tools. In just a few seconds, you can adapt your watch to your outfit or the occasion, from the comfort of your home, with simplicity and elegance.

Whether it's a classic watch, a chronograph, or a waterproof model ready to face any adventure, Charlie Paris quartz watches embody precise craftsmanship and timeless design.