IWC 150

Transitional movements bridging mechanical and electronic eras, where a battery replaces the mainspring but a physical oscillator still regulates time. The category covers electric balance watches (Hamilton Electric 500), electronic balance calibres (ESA Dynotron), and tuning-fork movements (Bulova Accutron), produced mainly between 1957 and the early 1970s.

Winding the mainspring by turning the crown attached to the stem, transmitting torque through the winding pinion. Patented by Adrien Philippe in 1842, it replaced key winding and remains the standard manual winding method for both pocket watches and wristwatches.

The dominant modern system: pulling the crown out to a setting position engages the hand-setting mechanism. Introduced in the late 19th century and refined into multi-position crowns (date, time, GMT). Used in virtually all modern wristwatches and most 20th-century pocket watches.

The undisputed standard of modern mechanical watchmaking. Through an elegant interplay between escape wheel, pallet fork, and balance, it delivers reliable impulses with the safety of 'draw' to keep the lever locked. Refined since the 18th century, it powers almost every quality mechanical wristwatch made today.

Introduced by Bulova's Accutron in 1960, this technology uses an electronically driven tuning fork vibrating at 360 Hz, advancing a tiny index wheel via a pawl. Famous for its smooth gliding seconds hand and signature hum, it bridged the gap between mechanical and quartz watchmaking.

The most traditional regulator, consisting of a movable index pointer fitted with two curb pins (or a pin and a boot) that embrace the hairspring. Sliding the index along its scale changes the spring's active length, adjusting the rate. Simple, reliable, and easy to service, it remains the workhorse standard across countless mechanical movements.

It is the most common form that we can find.

Contrary to the ticking motion of quartz watches, the sweep second hand in mechanical watches moves smoothly around the dial, offering a visual representation of time flowing continuously. This has become synonymous with the precision and craft of mechanical horology.

An essential for many, the date display reminds wearers of their daily commitments, connecting the abstract concept of time to tangible daily events.

Functionality meets style as this feature allows wearers to measure specific time intervals, embodying the blend of everyday utility with sophisticated design.