#3 Quiz: True or False ? Unravel preconceived ideas in watchmaking!

After testing your general knowledge and your mastery of complications, it's time to tackle urban legends! The world of watchmaking is vast, and many misconceptions circulate, even among enthusiasts.

Does a watch that's water-resistant to 30 meters really allow you to dive? Is sapphire crystal indestructible? In this third quiz, the Charlie Paris team challenges you to separate fact from fiction.

Ready to take on the challenge? Answers at the end of the quiz.

8 statements: it's up to you to say if they are TRUE or FALSE!

1. "If my watch says 'Waterproof 30 meters' (3 ATM), I can go diving with it."

2. "A quartz watch is generally more accurate than a mechanical watch."

3. "Sapphire crystal is completely scratch-resistant."

4. "The terms 'Chronograph' and 'Chronometer' refer to exactly the same thing."

5. "Never wind an automatic watch manually using the crown; this damages the mechanism."

6. "I can change the date on my mechanical watch at any time of day."

7. "A magnet (handbag, speaker, iPad) can disrupt a mechanical watch."

8. "As long as a watch works well, it doesn't need servicing."

Answers & explanations

1. FAKE : 3 ATM (30m) is only splash-proof. For swimming, you need 10 ATM and for diving, like our Concordia30 ATM.

2. TRUE : Quartz varies by a few seconds per month, compared to a few seconds per day for a mechanical movement, although the latter has the charm of tradition.

3. TRUE (or almost!) With a hardness of 9/10, only diamond can scratch sapphire. This is the standard at Charlie Paris for maximum durability.

4. FAKE : The chronograph is a time measurement function (stopwatch), while the stopwatch is an official high-precision certificate (COSC).

5. FAKE : Conversely, if it has stopped, a few turns of the crown will help restart the mechanism. The mechanism is protected against over-winding.

6. FAKE : Avoid the "death zone" (9pm-3am). The date mechanism is engaged and forcing the setting at this precise moment risks damaging the gears.

7. TRUE : Magnets can magnetize the movement and make it run very fast. Fortunately, this can be quickly corrected by a watchmaker.

8. FAKE : Oils dry out over time. An overhaul every 5 to 7 years is necessary to prevent premature wear of the parts.

So, what is your score out of 8?

At Charlie Paris, we are committed to making watchmaking accessible and transparent. Whether you're looking for your first automatic watch or a technical dive watch, we're here to answer your questions, without myths or legends!