Specifications & Features - Watch Guide
Choosing the right watch should feel safe and easy. Here, we explain the most common features and specifications you'll encounter when looking at our watches – without complicated jargon.
Analog display
The watch displays the time with hands and a dial. Most analog watches use a 12-hour display.
Digital display
The time is shown with numbers on a digital display.
24-hour display
Displays the time in 24-hour format instead of AM/PM.
Date
Displays the current date. On some watches, the date adjusts automatically; on others, it needs to be adjusted manually for shorter months.
Day of the week
Shows the current day of the week.
GMT / Multiple time zones
Allows the display of time in an extra time zone, perfect for travel.
World time
Displays the time in several major cities or time zones around the world.
Moon phase display
Shows the current phase of the moon – a classic and decorative complication.
Alarm
The watch can be set to sound an alarm at a selected time. Some models have multiple alarms.
Sound level (alarm & signals)
Specific information about sound levels is not usually provided by manufacturers and is therefore rarely available in product descriptions. The experience may vary between different models.
Chronograph
A stopwatch function that measures seconds, minutes, and sometimes hours. Common on sports and racing watches.
Timer
Counts down from a preset time and signals when the time is up.
Lap memory
Saves times so you can compare multiple measurements.
Quartz movement
Powered by a battery and is very accurate. Requires minimal maintenance.
Automatic movement
Powered by movement from the wrist. No battery change is needed with normal use.
Manual winding
The watch is wound by turning the crown by hand.
Solar
The battery is charged by light, both sunlight and artificial light.
Power reserve indicator
Shows how much power reserve or battery life remains.
EOL – Battery indicator
Indicates when the battery is running low, often by the second hand skipping longer steps.
Water resistance (ATM)
Indicates how water-resistant the watch is:
- 3 ATM – Rain and splashes
- 5–10 ATM – Showering and swimming
- 20 ATM – Diving
Rotatable bezel (diving bezel)
Used to measure time, often during diving.
Compass
Shows cardinal directions and assists with navigation.
Altimeter
Measures altitude above sea level.
Thermometer
Shows the temperature around the watch (can be affected by body temperature).
Depth gauge
Measures depth during diving.
Pedometer
Measures how many steps you take during the day.
Heart rate monitor
Measures heart rate directly from the wrist or via a chest strap.
Sleep tracking
Analyzes the duration and quality of sleep.
Calorie counter
Calculates energy consumption based on activity.
Bluetooth
Connects the watch to a mobile phone or other devices for synchronization.
GPS
Tracks position, distance, and routes.
Radio-controlled time
Automatically sets the correct time via radio signal.
Luminous hands & markers
Hands and markers glow in the dark after being charged by light.
Backlight
Built-in light that illuminates the display, common on digital watches.
Sapphire glass
Highly scratch-resistant glass of the highest quality.
Mineral glass
Hardened glass that is good at resisting impacts.
Anti-reflective coating
Reduces reflections and makes the dial easier to read.
Screw-down crown
Increases water resistance by screwing down the crown.
Magnetic resistance
Protects the movement from magnetic fields.
Shock-resistant
Extra durable construction against impacts and vibrations.
Skeleton dial
Partially open dial that shows the movement.
Interchangeable strap
The strap can be easily replaced.
Limited edition
Produced in a limited number of copies.
Helium escape valve
A helium escape valve is a technical feature on some professional diving watches that releases trapped helium during saturation diving. It protects the watch from damage when pressure changes during ascent to the surface.