Understanding Watch Movements: Quartz vs. Automatic vs. Mechanical

Seiko men's & ladies watches

Watches are more than accessories, they are expressions of style, craftsmanship, and personal identity. Whether you’re drawn to precision engineering, timeless luxury, or everyday reliability, the heart of any watch lies in its movement. At Silver Oak, we believe that understanding how your watch works elevates your appreciation of the piece you wear.

Today, we break down the three most popular watch movements: Quartz, Automatic, and Mechanical, helping you make an informed choice when selecting your next timepiece.

What Is a Watch Movement?

A watch movement, often called a calibre is the engine that powers a watch. It drives the hands, keeps time, and powers additional features like calendars or chronographs. The movement determines the watch’s accuracy, care needs, and overall feel on the wrist.

Understanding the differences helps you match your lifestyle to the watch that suits you best.

1. Quartz Movement: Precision Meets Convenience

Quartz watches are the most common globally, and for good reason. Introduced in the 1960s, quartz technology revolutionized watchmaking with its unmatched accuracy and affordability.

How Quartz Works

A battery sends an electrical current through a tiny quartz crystal, causing it to vibrate at a consistent frequency. These vibrations keep the watch perfectly on time.

Seiko Ladies Watch

Why Choose Quartz?

• Highly accurate — loses only a few seconds per month

• Low maintenance — battery changes every 1–2 years

• Affordable luxury — high quality without the premium price

• Lightweight & reliable — ideal for everyday wear

Best For:

Students, professionals, first-time watch buyers, or anyone seeking a stylish and dependable daily watch.

At Silver Oak Jewellers Kenya, brands like Casio, Fossil, and selected fashion labels use quartz movements to deliver precision with elegant design.

2. Automatic Movement: Powered by Motion

Automatic watches, often called “self-winding’’, offer sophistication powered by your natural wrist movement. These watches combine engineering artistry with effortless operation.

How Automatic Works

Inside is a rotor that spins as you move. This rotation winds the mainspring, providing energy without needing a battery.

Seiko Men's Watch

What Makes Automatics Special?

• Self-powered — no batteries required

• Smooth sweeping second hand — a hallmark of luxury

• Mechanical heritage — admired by watch enthusiasts

• Eco-friendly — long-lasting with minimal waste

Best For:

Collectors, luxury watch enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a premium, classic feel.

Automatic models available at Silver Oak include sophisticated pieces from Seiko and other premium brands, blending historic craftsmanship with modern Kenyan lifestyle.

3. Mechanical Movement: Pure Craftsmanship

Mechanical watches are the oldest form of timekeeping and are celebrated for their beauty and complexity. Unlike automatics, they must be manually wound to keep time.

How Mechanical Works

A tightly wound spring releases energy through a series of gears, regulating the movement of the hands. This entirely hand-assembled process makes mechanical watches prized collectibles.

Fossil Men's Watch

Why Watch Lovers Choose Mechanical

• Artisanal engineering — each watch is a miniature masterpiece

• Heritage appeal — centuries-old craftsmanship

• Collector value — mechanics that stand the test of time

• Emotion and tradition — every winding connects you to the watch

Best For:

Watch collectors, and anyone wanting a watch with character and soul.

At Silver Oak Jewellers, our carefully curated mechanical options deliver the spirit of classic watchmaking with a refined aesthetic.

Quartz vs Automatic vs Mechanical: Which Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick comparison to guide your choice:

Feature	Quartz	Automatic	Mechanical
Power Source	Battery	Wrist movement	Manual winding
Maintenance	Low	Moderate	High
Accuracy	Very high	Moderate	Moderate
Price Range	Affordable	Mid–High	High
Best For	Everyday use	Style + craftsmanship	Collectors

At Silver Oak, we help you match your personality and purpose to the right movement—whether you want a watch that works as hard as you do, or a piece that tells a story.

Choosing Your Watch from Silver Oak Jewellers Kenya

Every watch carries meaning, celebrating milestones, elevating your outfit, or marking personal achievement. At Silver Oak, we curate trusted brands like Seiko, Fossil, and Casio, ensuring you find the perfect blend of style, functionality, and authenticity.

Whether you're upgrading your collection or purchasing your very first watch, our team is always ready to provide expert guidance.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Timepiece? Visit Silver Oak Jewellers Kenya today and explore our growing collection of quartz, automatic, and mechanical watches. Discover a watch that matches your moment only at Silver Oak.