November 21, 2022

Quartz vs. Automatic Watch Guide

Updated July 28, 2025

Written By: Vahid Moradi

When comparing watches, it’s easy to focus on design, brand, or price. But beneath the surface, the movement—the mechanism that powers the watch—tells a deeper story. For many buyers, the choice between a quartz watch and an automatic timepiece comes down to lifestyle, budget, and personal style.

This guide breaks down the core differences to help you choose a movement that’s as functional as it is refined.

What Is a Quartz Watch?

A quartz watch uses a quartz crystal and battery to keep time. First introduced in the 1960s, this technology revolutionized watchmaking by delivering unmatched accuracy in a low-maintenance design.¹

Key characteristics of quartz movement

While the inner workings may not be as visually elaborate as their mechanical counterparts, quartz watches offer a level of performance that’s hard to match—especially for those who prioritise reliability and simplicity. Here are the defining traits that set this watch movement apart:

Battery-powered: A small electrical current from the battery causes the quartz crystal to vibrate at a consistent frequency.
Extremely accurate: Quartz movements are typically accurate to within 15 seconds per month.
Low maintenance: Aside from a battery replacement every few years, quartz watches require very little upkeep.

If you’ve ever wondered how a quartz watch works, it’s simpler than you think. The battery sends electricity through the quartz, which vibrates precisely 32,768 times per second. This vibration is translated into one pulse per second, causing the second hand to move smoothly and dependably.

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What Is an Automatic Watch?

Unlike quartz models, an automatic watch—also known as a mechanical watch—doesn’t rely on a battery. Instead, it draws energy from a self-winding mechanism that harnesses the natural motion of your wrist. As you go about your day, a small rotor inside the case spins and gradually winds the mainspring. That stored energy is then released in measured increments, powering the intricate network of gears that keep the watch moving with quiet precision.

This type of watch movement holds a timeless appeal for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its charm lies not only in function, but in form. Many automatic watches showcase their inner workings through a transparent caseback, offering a glimpse into the elegant dance of cogs, levers, and springs. For those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship, the allure is undeniable. Automatic watches celebrate centuries of horological artistry and mechanical ingenuity—making each one a piece of living history worn on the wrist.

Quartz vs. Automatic Watch: Key Differences

While both quartz and automatic watches tell time, they offer vastly different experiences. Here’s a closer look at where they differ:

Accuracy

When it comes to precision, quartz watches have the edge. Thanks to their electronically regulated quartz movement, they rarely need adjustment and perform reliably even with irregular use.

In contrast, automatic watches—while consistent—can be affected by temperature, position, and winding habits, which may require occasional resetting.

Power Source and Maintenance

Quartz watches are powered by batteries, which typically last 1–3 years. Once the battery runs out, it must be replaced, but that’s about the extent of upkeep.

Automatic watches are powered by motion. As long as you wear them regularly, they keep going. If left unworn, they’ll stop and need to be manually wound or placed in watch storage (like a winder) to stay in motion.

Price and Value

Quartz movement watches tend to be more affordable, making them ideal for those new to luxury timepieces or seeking dependable daily wear.

Automatic movement watches are generally more expensive due to the complexity of their inner workings and superior craftsmanship. However, they can also hold or even increase in value over time, especially when part of a prestigious collection.

Aesthetics and Craftsmanship

Quartz watches prioritize simplicity and function, often with sleeker profiles due to fewer internal components.

Mechanical watches, especially Swiss-made, are celebrated for their detailed artistry—visible gears, polished bridges, and intricate engravings that elevate them from tools to heirlooms.

Pros and Cons of Each Movement

Both quartz and automatic watches offer distinct advantages depending on your priorities, whether that’s unmatched accuracy, traditional elegance, or effortless daily wear. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each watch movement can help you make a choice that aligns with your lifestyle and expectations.

Quartz Watch Pros and Cons

For those who value performance and simplicity, quartz watches are hard to beat. They’re typically accurate to within ±15 seconds per month, require minimal maintenance, and come in affordable, lightweight designs perfect for daily wear. However, they lack the mechanical artistry collectors often seek, and they do require battery replacements every few years.

Automatic Watch Pros and Cons

Automatic watches, on the other hand, appeal to those who admire traditional watchmaking. Powered by natural wrist movement, they reflect centuries of craftsmanship and often feature open casebacks that reveal their mechanical beauty. While they can be more expensive and may require regular winding if unworn, they’re often considered the best choice for a refined luxury collection.

Matching Your Watch to Your Routine and Preferences

If you’re still unsure, consider how your watch will fit into your routine. A quartz watch may be the right fit if you need a low-maintenance daily companion, travel frequently, or are starting your collection with an affordable yet reliable piece. An automatic watch could be ideal if you appreciate mechanical engineering, wear your watch regularly, or want something that bridges elegance and tradition. Either way, both types offer style, substance, and the kind of precision that speaks volumes about the wearer.

And don’t forget: long-term ownership also calls for mindful habits. Whether you’re caring for a quartz or mechanical model, following watch care tips—like keeping your timepiece away from magnets, moisture, and excessive shock—will help preserve its performance and beauty for years to come.

Find Your Perfect Timepiece at CJ Charles Jewelers

Whether you lean toward the dependable rhythm of quartz movement or the intricate charm of an automatic movement, CJ Charles offers a curated selection of luxury watches to match your preferences. From classic silhouettes to standout models rich in craftsmanship, our showroom is home to the finest names in watchmaking.

Explore our range of quartz automatic watches, discover new arrivals, and let our experts guide you in choosing a timepiece that reflects your lifestyle and taste. At CJ Charles, every watch tells more than just time—it tells your story.