For anyone exploring the world of fine watches, one term comes up often: chronograph. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply looking to gift a sophisticated timepiece, understanding what a chronograph is—and what sets it apart—can make a big difference in how you choose and wear a watch.
At Johnston Jewelers, we’re here to break down not just the terminology, but the function, history, and value of chronograph watches so you can appreciate both their craftsmanship and everyday utility.
What Is a Chronograph Watch?
Simply put, a chronograph is a watch with built-in stopwatch functionality. It has the ability to measure elapsed time while still telling the time of day—thanks to additional sub-dials (also called registers) and pushers on the case.
Typical chronograph watches feature:
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A central seconds hand used for timing events
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One or more sub-dials that track elapsed minutes or hours
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Pushers (buttons) on the side of the case to start, stop, and reset the stopwatch function
Unlike a basic time-only watch, a chronograph is designed for people who want to track time intervals—whether for sport, work, or personal precision.
How Does It Work?
Most chronographs operate through two pushers on either side of the crown:
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The top pusher starts and stops the chronograph
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The bottom pusher resets the chronograph hand to zero
Once activated, the large center chronograph seconds hand begins sweeping (or ticking, depending on the movement), while sub-dials measure minutes or hours.
You can use it to time laps, meetings, workouts, or even your favorite roast in the oven. It’s one of the few features in watchmaking that is both technically intricate and genuinely practical.
A Brief History of the Chronograph
The first chronograph was invented in 1816 by Louis Moinet, designed for astronomical calculations. The chronograph as we know it today was later commercialized in the 1820s by Nicolas Rieussec for horse racing—literally translating to “time writer.”
Over the years, chronographs became essential tools in aviation, diving, motor sports, and space exploration. Famous chronograph models, like the Omega Speedmaster (worn on the moon) and the Rolex Daytona (a motorsport icon), helped establish the chronograph as not just a tool, but a symbol of achievement and adventure.
Types of Chronograph Movements
Chronographs come in several movement types, each with different advantages:
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Quartz Chronograph: Battery-powered, highly accurate, often more affordable
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Mechanical Chronograph: Powered by gears and springs, admired for its craftsmanship
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Automatic Chronograph: A mechanical chronograph that winds itself using the movement of your wrist
At Johnston Jewelers, we carry all three, and we’re happy to walk you through the differences to find what fits your lifestyle and budget.
Why Choose a Chronograph?
A chronograph is the perfect blend of function and style. It’s ideal for anyone who appreciates complexity, mechanical engineering, and vintage heritage. And while you might not need to time laps every day, it’s a feature that adds character, conversation, and technical beauty to any collection.
Chronographs also suit a wide range of styles:
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Sporty chronographs with tachymeters and bold dials
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Dress chronographs with slim profiles and subtle detailing
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Aviation chronographs with slide rules and high visibility
Whether you’re timing your personal best or just enjoying the craftsmanship, a chronograph brings depth and dimension to your wrist.
Ready to Explore Chronographs?
We invite you to visit Johnston Jewelers and view our curated selection of chronograph watches. From modern designs to vintage-inspired classics, our team will help you understand the functions, movement types, and style options that fit your needs.
Have a question about how to use your chronograph, or which brands offer the best long-term value? We’re here to help with expert guidance and hands-on comparison.