Why Every Collector Needs a Quartz Watch - How They Work & Everything Else You Should Know

[@gilbertfindlay7142]

Hey Teddy a suggestion, why not do a “best quarts watch collection at different price points and functionality” this could help guide collectors and potential collectors as to what’s available on the market. I’m sure the list is very long so a selection would be good.

[@kemoldoinc9845]

Amazing idea !

[@uhrologe2596]

I'm in!

[@martintanz9098]

Not a bad idea, except that as someone said, G shock would win every time for functionality and durability. Outside of G shock, Bulova came out with its Precisionist line of ultra accurate quartz movements a few years back, but chose to put the movements in some of the ugliest watches around. Citizen makes its Eco drives which are basically, solar powered quartz. For plain old quartz, IMO, it is hard for a reviewer to differentiate the movements.

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Thanks for the suggestion, Gilbert. We are working on something more comprehensive that is along the lines of this. Appreciate the comment and good idea!

[@stupitt6989]

Good idea 👍 The Rolex Oysterquartz 17000 is a great watch

[@TeabagDeluxe]

I have a Seiko quartz that was bought by my dad in the late 80s and used almost daily until he passed away in '96. It has so much meaning and sentimental value to me as it is one of the few material things he owned.

[@VIACHESLAVdimitrov]

So touching story

[@brantisonfire]

Same thing with my grandad. I've spent a few hours trying to figure out how to date it, but at a certain point Seiko started giving them serial numbers that only indicate a single digit of the year. So, if I'm not mistaken, the one my grandad had has a 8 to signify 1980s era, but it doesn't get specific for the month. Something like that, it's been years since I researched into it. It's not some heritage Rolex, but it was probably the watch that really got me interested in collecting watches, even if I could only afford quartz Casios, Timexes and the like.

[@bingoberra18]

I was a mechanical snob, but as I collected more watches and wearing them for a day or less each, it got annoying having to set and wind them all, A quartz was such a relief to just grab and go

[@raylang339]

I feel the same way too.

[@christophergan71]

Mechanical watches exercise the fingers and a daily therapy for the mind, reminds you why you own a mechanical watch in the first place. A battery powered quartz is not only bad for environment, it's a pain having to pry open the back case and change the battery. And it can die when you need it most.

[@YouTubeAIbot]

@@christophergan71 I can smell the snobbery from here

[@BennyOcean]

My Victorinox (Swiss Army) watch is running about a second fast per *month*. The battery should last 2-3 years. As far as accuracy goes, this watch should be off by less than a minute with no adjustments between battery changes. That's kind of crazy, and something to appreciate.

[@nezabytes]

Facts X's 10!

[@samhackney5977]

Teddy, THANK YOU, I collect both quartz and mechanical watches and appreciate them both. My quartz watches are my daily go to pieces most of the time as I don’t want to scratch or accidentally damage my mechanical watches. If I’m not working I prefer one of my mechanical watches. I will always hold my mechanical watches in higher regard just because the complexity of the movement and knowing that a highly skilled individual hand built such a beautiful machine. The fact that you brought up this controversial subject and made a rock solid case why both of these movements are relative was why you’re the best at what you do. Thanks

[@brandontran4180]

I have 8 watches in my collection. Half are quartz and half are automatics. I liked that they are accurate and low maintenance. Also, they are good ways to discover what you like without burning your bank account

[@MrBalla-pk6lr]

@Brandon Hi watch noob here! I have two quartz pieces and will be getting an automatic soon. This collection may grow in future. How do you keep up with the automatic watches? Like maintenance, winding regularly etc I'd appreciate your advice

[@jamessteven9748]

Well said

[@brandontran4180]

@@MrBalla-pk6lr Hi Mr. Balla! So with automatics, I usually rotate them once a week. I usually wind my watch every 2-3 days. Service maintenance will depend on how often you wear your automatic watches. Generally, a service every 5 years is recommended. I have heard you can go longer. Sometimes, it can be shorter. Overall, it really depends on you and how you use your watches. Hope this helps!!

[@MrBalla-pk6lr]

@@brandontran4180 thanks a ton 🙌🏻😊

[@culinarykid92]

I have 2 watches, a Nighthawk and a GShock Neo Tokyo GAS series watch. I ordered the Traska Venturer as my first mechanical watch. Personally, I love a watch on the wrist, and the accuracy and special features make quartz unbeatable. But I wanted to try a mechanical watch. I don't want to spend expensive pricing in case (and most likely will) the watch gets scratched. I mostly want a functional watch that looks good. But I do travel with friends so a dual time watch makes things helpful, if only slightly. And lume (or an LED in the GShock's case) is a must for the few scenarios where it has been too dark to tell the time. I never intended to have a collection, and honestly, if my GShock could have interchangeable bands (I like rubber for work as a cook and Beads of Rice for home) and lume on the hands, I might only keep it. But I really appreciate my watches and can't wait to get the Venturer.

[@Blue_3rd]

I never understood the dislike of quartz, it was such an amazing development in watches. I got my first one in the 70s. My collection is about 50/50 between autos and quartz and I enjoy them all.

[@JH-qy7zw]

I’m not a traditional quartz fan and always preferred mechanical because of the mechanism and appreciate the engineering of them. In my forties and still will find my self staring at it all working. However, after I discovered citizens eco drive with atomic time keeping, I have purchased a couple for the incredible convenience and durability. They’ve been an incredible addition to my collection and I sing their praises just as much as any of my mechanical watches.

[@Blue_3rd]

@@JH-qy7zw I understand 100%.Those Eco drives are excellent, I haven´t got one yet, but they are high on my list. I also stare at my autos :)) the Tissots, Omega, Phoibos and Christopher Wards...but what do I use to put them to the exact time? A Gshock atomic/solar :))) Cheers!

[@ForneverstarOfficial]

I own 3 quartz and Idc a watch is watch

[@lukemiller3221]

I just purchased a Grand Seiko with the 9F quartz movement in it. I have had only mechanical watches up to this point but I can appreciate a watch that I can pick up and just go without ever needing set. Knowing the watch will be at most 10 seconds off a year is pretty impressive.

[@jmso786]

Great video! I'll say it now - quartz snobbery is the height of ignorance. It's akin to those who say they only drink single malt scotch, believing it to be inherently superior, and obtusely unaware that there are amazing blended whiskies in the world. For quartz watches, I'd offer up the GS 9F movement as an example. The 9F quartz movement uses in-house grown crystals and its functionality includes ticking twice per second (for increased accuracy), and braking on the correct second marker. To achieve this takes a lot of work, dare I say as much thoughtfulness and work as in a "traditional" mechanical movement. The 9F movement is one I wouldn't even mind seeing in an open case back, and even though its a "high-end" example, the point is to show that quartz watches aren't inherently inferior. People are entitled to their opinions, but if you claim to be an appreciator of "horology" as many collectors claim to be, why wouldn't you also take the time to learn and appreciate all movements, including quartz? People are missing out on a lot by being so blindly prejudiced.

[@DaTryHardCamper]

I disagree! That's all I'll say

[@southjerseysound7340]

If you read my post I ended up with a gold Day Date Rolex Oysterquartz years ago because they thought it's fake because it's a quartz movement 😆

[@jerrypanela]

Exactly. Love this comment. 👍

[@rangersmith4652]

I have mostly quartz watches and no blended Scotch. Is there something wrong with me?

[@curtydbikes]

I disagree with the guy that disagrees! I need to get me a 9F!

[@markleo8155]

I had the Tissot PRX and loved it. The fit and finish is outstanding. I sold it because mine had a misalignment, the seconds hand completely missed the indices. Once I saw it, I couldn't unsee it. So my replacement quartz watch is a Seiko Padi Solar ... All the benefits of quartz plus solar powered... I don't suspect any maintenance for at least 7-10years :) best of all, bezel is spot on and second hand hits every mark.

[@brianmsahin]

Having 15 mechanical watches I bought a first quartz late last year. We were going on a trekking trip in the Taurus Mountains so wanted something tough and reliable. Decided on a not overly expensive G-Shock Mudmaster GG-1000-1A3DR with a good compass and temperature gauge, analog/digital, including seconds hand, lume and illuminator light. I noticed +/-15 seconds per month on the manual so decided to test it against the atomic time site on my phone! The Watch itself does not have Bluetooth or GPS access to atomic time. After 2 weeks, it was +1 second after 30 days +2 . That is just incredible. Actually better than my GS Spring Drive which is plus about 5 seconds per month. I never turned my nose down to quartz, but never bothered getting one (except for the Seiko but that's not quite the same thing) before the G-Shock. I'm glad I did. Excellent video as always Teddy.

[@jeremysmith2731]

The other main reason to respect quartz watches is that they are a great way to get children or people who are never going to be a watch collector to wear a classic analog watch. Mechanical watches will actually be a negative in those cases because of the reduced accuracy and requirement to keep it running via the mainspring will just be a turn off. I always like to make anyone wearing a watch feel good about it regardless of what it is, because I would rather someone wear a watch then nothing at all.

[@nah9935]

Very true! I had a quartz watch since I was a kid so I can’t live without it on my wrist. It made me curious on mechanical watches. I still keep my quartz watches since it’s both sentimental and still really cool. Some of the dials and complications that can be integrated into these quartz watches is fascinating.

[@Stassis]

This. It's always nice so see someone wearing something other than a smartwatch.

[@SilverBackELTorro]

❤ Spoken like a true horologist.

[@jonathanmiles897]

I received a quartz watch as a gift from my daughter. As a result it has great sentimental value to me. It is part of my watch collection and I wear it regularly. I also have an eco drive that I received as a gift and wear occasionally. They are both accurate and wear well.

[@JJL206]

If you are a true collector it’s great to have a varied collection of watches. I’ve got automatic, quartz, and solar/quartz movements…all selected because of their design and execution. I set my mechanical watches based on my iPhone or quartz watches, if that tells you anything. Quartz is way more accurate, but that isn’t always the point. It’s all about how the watch feels on your wrist, and how it makes you feel when you’re wearing it - regardless if what’s inside…

[@litbystars3106]

Not only they are more accurate, they are just better in everything, except museum value.

[@davidcrandall4958]

@@litbystars3106 Do you have any museum value watches! Are they restored? What are they?

[@SilverBackELTorro]

@@litbystars3106 😅😂

[@hustlerfour]

You know it's comments like these that make me think that the watch industry is about nothing but brainwashing customers

[@greenbean5186]

@@litbystars3106 Mechanical watches are more fascinating and fun imo. especially in this digital age where a hand watches aren't a necessity.

[@NoizeTank]

I began watch collecting 10 years ago with cheap quartz, transitioned to automatics only, and now it’s ONLY quartz again. Grand Seiko 9F Quartz, Citizen Chronomaster, Casio Oceanus, Seiko Solar diver, G-Shock…all fantastic. The Chronomaster and 9F Quartz are considered High Accuracy Quartz at +-5 seconds per year and +-10 seconds per year, on top being finished at a high level (the Chronomaster is also solar-powered). The Oceanus and G Shock automatically adjust themselves to either the atomic clock or through Bluetooth to always be accurate on a daily basis, all on top of being solar powered which makes them true set-and-forget watches.

[@dannysimenauer5745]

I discovered and own five amazing eco-drive Citizen watches in my collection. Never needs maintenance nor a battery nor needs to be wound.

[@RARena-vv7hu]

Impressive collection!!

[@nate2188764]

I also went from quartz to mechanical and mostly back. I still really appreciate a well made mechanical watch and will alway keep one around, but my grand Seiko 9F is my primary and most beloved piece

[@Rosavieiraferreira]

As a woman with a tiny wrist, my options for mechanical watches are really restrict. I learned to admire the technology on the quartz ones and embracing it.

[@3581tossit]

as a quartz enthusiast, do you know if a mecaquartz could be worn while drumming or would the shock disrupt the accuracy of the mechanical part of the movement? thanks

[@Bluemax-1]

Teddy, for me you are my number one go to channel for everything watches! Ive been in this hobby for a year now and your depth and breadth of knowledge, combined with such a likeable delivery, makes your videos an absolute pleasure to watch. Well done and keep them coming!

[@cunawarit]

In my collection, I have both automatic and quartz timepieces. However, if I were to weigh my preferences, I find myself gravitating towards quartz watches. There’s an undeniable allure to the advanced technology that powers them-a seamless blend of precision and innovation that captivates my interest. Quartz watches are not only marvels of modern engineering but also embody a cooler, more contemporary technology. A high-quality quartz is just as servicing its automatic counterparts, and will last a lifetime. In essence, while automatic watches hold a traditional charm, the quartz movement resonates with my appreciation for cutting-edge technology and I marvel at the almost incomprehensible levels of accuracy compared to an automatic. If I have to choose just one, quartz it is for me! They are so impressive compared to the simply mechanical movements.

[@JeffsP13]

In a weird way I hope the rise of smartwatches brings about a new level of appreciation for quartz movements. I'm in the "burn it with fire" camp when it comes to smartwatches, mostly because they are disposable digital extensions of our phones that lack character and personality. While I completely understand the snobbery mechanical watch loyalists have towards quartz movements, a quartz watch at least packs a similar level of beauty, design, and character that their mechanical counterparts have, with the exception of the movement itself. For a watch you can wear everyday without fear of breaking the delicate inner components, while still looking amazing and keeping fantastic time, quartz watches are a must have.

[@johnanth]

We taught a rock how to keep time. That's very impressive by itself, and while surpassed by atomic timekeeping, it's still the best for most uses. By the way Teddy - the diagrams were incredible. Not sure if you still edit your videos but hats off to the presentation here.

[@john-carlosynostroza]

Dang Teddy, I didn't know what to think of you when I first started watching you and now you have matured to a point where I think it is safe to say you are one of the top 3 bringing watch content to the Internet! Fantastic stuff, especially lately!

[@davidcrandall4958]

Jhon I agree!

[@omadayusjones6414]

Quartz watches have been on my wrist since boyhood and still hold a place in my collection including 2 Eco Drive Citizens, 1 Swatch Irony chronograph and a Bulova CURV chronograph. That being said my first automatic (purchased 2020) was a black & gold Invicta diver followed by a Seiko Recraft square bracelet watch (that a Macy’s rep thought was a Tag upon first glance), a Seiko Presage cocktail time (in beautiful dark green textured sunburst dial), a Seiko Monster (black with cream hands and markers) and a Pagani Design hulk diver. I do appreciate the mechanical craftsmanship of an automatic but also appreciate the accuracy and low upkeep and accuracy (and affordability) of a quartz. My last 2 acquisitions were from Timex’ Q reissue (including the silver cased leather strapped one from the start of this video and a root beer copper-bronze bracelet one as well). I am intrigued with the mecha quartz and spring drive options. Thank you Teddy for having insightful discussions about horology in its many facets. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed your take. Keep up the great work.

[@LlyleHunter]

I like having a selection of many different types of watches including quartz watches. I find that quartz watches are important in a collection as they are accurate and I can set my mechanical watches against them to the second.

[@dannysimenauer5745]

Happy New Year Teddy! Amen Brother- great content and advice! Before I started collecting mechanical watches, I started collecting quartz watches for the reasons you mentioned in your video. I got hooked with the value proposition of beautiful dials and affordable pieces I could buy. Over time, I used the savings from buying quartz watches to buy a house, put three kids through college debt free, and build an investment portfolio that allowed both my wife and I to recently retire. Now if I can only find luxury mechanical watches that cost less than a house…I will keep watching your videos to find watches to add to my buy list.

[@DanielPierce]

This is why the Spring Drive is one of my favorite movements of all time, it uses quartz to regulate a fully mechanical movement, and does so by harvesting power from the mainspring which is wound by an automatic rotor, it is a thing of beauty. UrWerk and Ressence should also be recognized for their efforts in this hybrid watch movement technology!

[@donaldasayers]

Worst of both worlds.

[@davidcrandall4958]

@@donaldasayers Donald. What's your point!

[@fenschmen2795]

I don't have the budget for most mechanical watches, but I love my quartz pieces! Your video does a great job of listing their benefits

[@alwaisman8501]

You can pick up some decent mechanical watches for cheap if you know where to look.

[@martintanz9098]

Thanks for the video and I agree, quartz deserves more respect, as a miracle of technology. Because quartz got so cheap, collectors turned their noses up at it as they wanted something more romantic. The romance of mechanical is the notion that it is 1. An heirloom that if properly cared for can last for generations. 2. Something that has soul, or character and 3. Something that was produced by artisans and craftsmen rather than something mass produced. The problem with this mindset is, aside from certain very old or very expensive watches, most mechanical watches are certainly not all of these things and in the case of entry level watches (basically anything retailing for less than $2,000), probably none of these things. And that is especially the case as watch repair costs go up, and independent watchmakers go out of business, and the luxury brands increasingly force owners to deal directly with authorized service centers to get their watches repaired. So for those collectors at the lower end of the market, a quartz watch will likely give you trouble free service for 10, maybe 20 years, and maybe 30 if you are lucky. A quality mechanical will give you trouble free service for a decade, maybe 2. eventually you will need to get the watch serviced, and when you do, you will face a dilemma. Except for luxury watches, most mechanical watches will cost much more than they are worth to get serviced. Do it if the watch has sentimental value, or toss it. As to the second and third points, what is it about a sweep of a seconds hand that gives a watch character? Mechanical is still mass produced technology built in factories, except for the ultra luxury segment of the market, which most of us can't afford. So does a mainspring give a watch more character than an electric signal from a battery? Arguably, no. It is more something luxury watch marketers told us to believe. IFor these and other reasons, have come full circle on my collecting. I enjoy both modern and vintage watches, and both quartz and mechanicals. As for quartz, I enjoy the accuracy of them and the relative fuss free nature of ownership. And in the case of chronographs, if I am after a certain look, more likely than not, I am going for a quartz rather than spend the kind of money I would need to spend on a mechanical chronograph. Because, the cost of repairing older chronogaphs is steep. And as for mechanicals, I enjoy the history that time spent with a favorite watch gives, or an heirloom watch that belonged to a deceased relative. As for newer mechanicals, I can't say it matters all that much, but I do enjoy them and I guess I will need to decide in the future if it makes sense to repair something like an old Seiko auto if it no longer keeps good time. My Swiss watches I imagine I will pay to get serviced when the time comes. Finally, I suspect that as clean working examples of early quartz watches get more rare, their will emerge a collectors market for them in the future. So I am hedging my bets and when good deals come along on older discontinued quartz models, I buy them. Maybe foolish, but I remember a time, in the 90s and early 2000s, when you could get clean vintage mechanical watches for not very much, and some of those watches I remember selling for $200, or $300 now go for thousands.

[@toddp5026]

Quartz watch technology goes far beyond what most people realize, it's all brilliant. Quality quartz watches deserve respect. Also what you called the "rotor" is actually the magnetized armature of the step motor. The plate it sits in is the stator. The coil energizes the motor. The circuit that counts down the 2 to the power of 15 oscillations of the quartz tuning fork crystal, or 32,768 hertz, is a 15 stage binary flip flop. That particular rate of hertz oscillation was chosen because it's the most sensible for the watch/clock application. Like most people wrongly assume, quartz crystal does not have a given resonance. It depends on how the crystal is cut and manipulated.

[@dikkie1000]

32,768 hertz is also chosen because it's outside the normal hearing range, 16khz is a very high whistle, any lower and you get an electronic hum. The advantage with those high frequencies is that you can hook up a chronograph module that works on the same frequency as the main part of the movement without tricks to increase accuracy, and you can attach a radio or GPS antenna and use that to synchonize your watch to the signal of atomic clocks. Endless possebilities.

[@steveb4012]

@@dikkie1000 Just like my Citizen PCAT..😁

[@andrewrobinson8447]

I started with quartz because I was unsure which design i preferred and it was a great way of trying out many watches without breaking the bank. Now I know what I like I still have quartz in my collection because I respect them for what they have to offer the hobby.

[@AndreMonz]

My Seiko SUR309 and my Citizen BN0100 are amazing watches! Great quality finish, keep time at almost atomic time rate and are robust for everyday use. Don't underestimate the quality of good quartz watches.

[@12801270able]

Yeah, because quality is mutually exclusive to mechanical watches...

[@whyFINAL]

Im also happy with my sur307 and citizen touhgh promaster…. this could be my only 2 do it all watches ….. But if you start colecting watches it is hard to stop :-D

[@mikeingeorgia1]

@@whyFINAL , I had a couple of watches that I purchased over 20 years ago. One beater for use at work, and a nicer Seiko kinetic for dress purposes. Then one day I decided I’d like to add to the collection, and after quite some time browsing, I chose Seiko’s SUR307 also. I was so happy with that purchase that the collection has continued to grow ever since.

[@jefferyneu3915]

Ten years ago, all of my watch purchases were automatic. Now I am just as likely to go for quartz watches, especially those with radio link to the U S atomic clock. I absolutely love picking up a watch that is always correct!

[@RA2Music]

I am a big fan of Japanese horology and my collection is centered around the four giants of that country: Citizen, Seiko, Orient and, of course, Casio. So clearly I own a fair amount of Japanese quartz movement pieces. My 25 year old Citizen Eco-Drive Corso has never been serviced and continues to run like a top. I received a Casio Duro for Christmas and find I really enjoy wearing it. It is a total set and forget watch. Of my 14 watch collection, 9 are quartz and I adore each one. As always, you’re collection is for you alone, so collect what you actually like not what you are told to prefer. Happy New Year all.

[@danonthestrings]

Teddy, last year I acquired a Casio Edifice EFV 100D for around 50$ and to me it”s a great daily ready to go watch with some slight hints of that Oyster Perpetual/Tissot Gentleman style. Incredible finishing and overall value for your money!

[@glostergloster6945]

I recently purchased a pre-owned Omega quartz, absolutely love it. I love the accuracy and the fact I can just pick it up after a few weeks and it still be on time.

[@markinkpt3664]

Same for me; My quartz Omega Seamster from the 90's gains about 2 seconds a month. The same one Price Williams wears all the time (36mm). I do wish more watch companies would take their quartz watches a step further, and make them more sweeping, like Bulova did. Or remove the seconds hand, like Cartier does...

[@Duboixofficiel]

markinkpt wow I was thinking of buying the quartz midsize seamaster as well! So accuracy is no problem at all, even when the watch is 20 odd years old?

[@markinkpt3664]

@@Duboixofficiel Exactly.

[@anthonyb.3371]

100%. My Hamilton Ventura gets a lot of compliments and it looks so classy and cool. It's a nice retro watch.

[@aaronrobins9953]

The Ventura is a beautiful watch.

[@anthonyb.3371]

@@aaronrobins9953 First watch to run on battery. Also, made famous by Elvis Presley. You can't buy the original anymore but the remake is less than $1K.

[@jysanto7665]

Teddy ~ I really enjoyed this video, as well as all your others that I've seen in the past year. Clear. Concise. Info packed ...and delivered at a pace to awaken any sleepy viewer 🥴. Of course quartz was where I began. Seiko, formal and glittery, so I could look dressy, dignified & dashing, as a young married gent.

[@David-nx2vm]

Teddy, great video. I have a modest-sized 20 watch collection, about 50/50 quartz and mechanical, ranging from an F91W to a Chronomat, and everything in between including an Apple Watch. Testimonial: I use my Citizen radio-controlled eco-drive to set my automatics! I will always have quartz watches…

[@anthonyterry4135]

Thanks so much! As a longtime watch enthusiast I appreciate you candor and clarity around quartz watches. I enjoy as you mentioned the artistry and precision of the mechanical watch. However I also enjoy a good G-shock quartz! I just never knew how to explain why? So Thanks!

[@canadianwatchmonkey3992]

Everyone needs a quartz watch so they can check how accurate their mechanical watches are keeping time, oh wait I forgot I have my cell phone, I guess I don’t need a quartz watch lol. I love my Hamilton PSR not because its quartz or digital but because it is just plain awesome!

[@sweetd5953]

Although if you have an Android phone it's off by a few minutes.

[@johnallison4688]

Very good overview . I understand the passion of the collector and the deniability of the true believer in mechanical watches , you put it succinctly when you said its the way you are wired. I am reminded of my brother’s experience with his gifted Rolex Submariner when it needed an overhaul. He gulped when informed of the cost and was gratified by the offer of several thousand dollars with a Seiko Quartz thrown in as an alternative. He was, after all , interested in having a reliable , water resistant watch , not the ethos of the Rolex. He informed me much later that it also kept better time. Truly a win/win situation for both parties.

[@kaiwilliams141]

I just got my first automatic watch and I do like it for sure. But I'm not so sold on it that I prefer it over a quartz watch. I really like the sturdiness that quartz offers, the lack of maintenance costs, and the fact that I can pick it up virtually any time. So when I buy my Tissot PRX, I'm buying the quartz option

[@samuelchopard]

I have a quartz Gentleman (bought it 3 years ago, it’s my everyday watch). It runs +1 second a month. It’s a beautiful and hassle-free watch, love it!

[@aaronrobins9953]

I bought a quartz Omega Constellation in 1992. I wore it everyday for years without babying it. It still runs great. I got into watch collecting more recently as I have a harder time seeing the Omega. I absolutely enjoy mechanical watches, but there is nothing wrong with quartz watches. Moreover, I bought matching quartz watches for my son and father for Christmas. I went quartz for them because neither of them would enjoy a mechanical watch.

[@jonabitstream]

Thank you Mr. B! My collecting has steadily moved towards high accuracy quartz. Because excellent quartz movements are so much less expensive than inferior mech. movements, I can now concentrate on more expensive cases, bracelets, and complications.

[@balesjo]

I would like to add a nice quartz to the collection. My eye is on the Longines Conquest VHP (Very High Performance) watch. Accuracy is said to be within 5 seconds per year, has a perpetual calendar, and power saving features that extend battery life, particularly when the watch is not being worn. Price is usually close to $1000 USD, though can be found new for a bit less, and add a couple of hundred for a GMT version. a very nice watch. Of course, you can also find preowned Grand Seiko Quartz as well as a few other high horology brands.

[@adstarr1]

Just viewing this video now.... I recently purchased a Tissot PRX quartz while travelling through Sydney... I had both the quartz and the powermatic versions in front of me and ultimately made my decision due in part to cost effectiveness (not to mention I didn't want upset my wife buying yet another watch). I almost immediately regretted my decision because the offering of the automatic version is so much nicer... But I've got to say one thing, the quartz version sure can keep accurate time and for that I appreciate it.... Thanks Teddy!

[@haze1544]

There should definitely be more meca quartz Watches. Those often get overlooked.

[@cartierwatchnerd]

I have two quartz Cartier Tanks and love how easy they are to grab and go. I’m looking forward to the new Tank Solarbeat next

[@sweetd5953]

Not as much of a reason to have mechanical movement in a watch with no second hand. Cartier quartz movement is surprisingly beautiful too.

[@drewski5150]

More quartz content, please! (As a side note: my Grand Seiko quartz is one of my favourite watches in my collection. Incredible accuracy.)

[@raylang339]

What do you need so much accuracy for?

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Controversial title Teddy! 😜 I love my quartz watches! I think they have a place in the collection. And I love that they always tell the right time!

[@esantosla]

I love both mechanical and quartz watches, but it's undeniable that quartz watches have an insane durability. I have an 21 years old Q&Q quartz watch, never change the battery since I bought it, my baby recently found it and play with the watch throwing it away several times, I only change the battery and voila still working like a charm.

[@dannyg6592]

This is the best video I've seen on quartz v. mechanical watches. I collect both and while I love my mechanical watches, there will always be a place in my collection for quartz watches.

[@Repiiv88]

I think I currently have a healthy balance between quartz/digital and mechanical/auto in my collection: 9 watches, 2 quartz analog, 1 digital (G-Shock), 2 mechanical hand-winding, and 4 automatic.

[@daz311x]

I'm a big fan of your channel so I'm surprised I'm barely seeing this video in my feed but AMEN! Quartz is so convenient, get up and go especially if you have 20+ watches in the collection.

[@antonioau_gb89]

Because it available in Teddy’s store

[@MegaMarlon0123]

😆

[@henryviiifake8244]

Oof 💀

[@popomomo12]

Oo you're so edgy 🙄

[@ArcticSeraph]

This is the most honest comment here

[@furniflex]

Very good

[@zabaleta66]

Wow, that Grand Seiko is utterly gorgeous!!

[@casualsuede]

If you are buying a quartz, but are snobby about having to see a ticking second hand, buy a watch with no second hand! I was looking at the edox delfin, which looks like a dressy version of the Royal Oak. The quartz version was $133, the automatic was $450. Why I got the quartz was because it had no second hand. I rarely get a watch for a movement so I am good with a quartz, but like many watch enthusiasts, the only thing that irks me is the tic-tic-tic of that hand.

[@tonygiles1841]

I bought the blue PRX. Looks good and when I look at a watchbox full of stopped mechanical watches and I need something smarter looking than a G-shock, it's a great "grab and go" alternative!

[@popomomo12]

Bulova accutron models/movement have a sweeping second hand. Looks really good to me

[@rangersmith4652]

Quartz watches know exactly how long a second is, and they show us without needing to be asked. Mechanical watches search around for how long a second is, and in the end they get it a bit wrong compared to quartz watches.

[@tonygiles1841]

@@rangersmith4652 That made me laugh!

[@mordeth1964]

I love and have a collection of Casios which we know make only quartz watches. I love them because of the retro vibe (being a child of the 70's and 80's), the designs, the features, the amazing value for money (for most of them) and very importantly (for me at least) affordability. You can wear one of their almost endless catalogue and smile all day and make other's smile as well. For instance, everyone I know loves my ubiquitous F-91W. It's just a cheerful watch and for $16AUD how can you go wrong? I think they all have their place and watch snobs need to accept them, because I seriously doubt the quartz watch will go anywhere soon. BTW great video 👍

[@MaherMuscleRusHAlAsfar]

That is so funny i just added blue dial Longings conquest VHP Quartz watch to my watch collections .

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Those are fantastic. In many ways better than the standard automatic conquests.

[@richardshaw1968]

@@TeddyBaldassarre unless you get it wet…much as I like the vhp why only 50m? I guess it’s something to do with the crown.

[@Nolimittt]

Tempting me with that PRX, I was gonna go for prx 80, not only because it's mechanical but also I prefer the waffle dial but I could use a quartz watch in my collection that I don't have to wind every time I wanna use different watch :D

[@blurryn]

Personally, I think some quartz watches are very interesting especially the 9F from Grand Seiko with open case-back. Furthermore, Omega and F.P. Journe still producing luxury quartz, so there has to be a good demand for that 🙂

[@riothero313]

The Accutron Spaceview is another very interesting one from a looks and execution perceptive. I think most watch snobs hate quartz because sooooo many companies make straight trash watches that they sell as "luxury" and they are all cheap quartz movements. This muddies the waters and ruins it for the quality pieces giving them a bad name.

[@blurryn]

@@riothero313 Couldn't disagree with that! Quartz watches are very amazing in their own way, the Accutron is indeed pushing the limits with the new static caliber. That being said, I hope we can see the return of Seiko's Kinetic SLQ family, those watches were really amazing!

[@davidcrandall4958]

Quartz watches are being taken to another level!

[@roberthudec6949]

Thanks Teddy. I have both mechanicals and quartz in my collection. I like the mechanicals in that they do not require battery changes. I don't like the fact that they are not as accurate as quartz watches. The most accurate mechanical is a recently repaired and cleaned 1916 Illinois pocket watch. The average mechanical requires resets at least every week. I have a couple of automatics that need to be repaired but the repair estimate greatly exceeds the value of the watch. Mechanicals are truly a love-hate relationship. For me, the watch should look good but the main functionality is that it must be able to provide the time accurately. Recently I purchased a Citizen Eco Drive. I have the amazing accuracy of the quartz drive but the power is derived from light. Looking forward, this will be my go to watch. Based on first impressions, if I buy another watch it too will be an Eco-Drive.

[@martintanz9098]

The cost of repair is one collectors of mechanicals should take into consideration as it is a real issue. With a few exceptions, this is why I stopped collecting inexpensive vintage mechanicals and automatics. If you get a good one, maybe it runs for years without any trouble. If you get a lemon, you could repair it and still find it doesn't keep great time or worse, stops intermittently.

[@bashfulbeet]

My approach is to go quartz for digital display pieces (g-shocks, world timers etc.) and stick with mechanical for analogue dials. This way, I feel like my quartz pieces never have to compete with my mechanical pieces. It also feels more natural to me that quartz is housed in pieces that represent the technology aspect - i.e. digital displays.

[@eruno_]

I think quartz analogs are great personally, after all the first quartz Seiko that changed the industry was analogue.

[@mantisshadow8990]

Please please please do more videos on quartz watches. They are simply fascinating and the points you made are very great!

[@jdiaz813]

I started off wearing quartz as a kid with some Casios; I can’t ignore the quartz watches because they were integral in my fascination for watches growing up. I prefer mechanical watches because of the sweeping second hand with the art and mastery needed to make them but hate the thought of servicing them. My latest purchase was a quartz watch the Sinn UX. I got it because of the high accuracy, and unique oil filled case. I can tell you I am snob towards apple watches :(

[@thomasroberts2700]

Great video! Clear, concise and very educational. I really appreciate hearing both sides of this topic.

[@arcadevampire]

I find it mindblowing that a solar quartz watch can potentially run for decades with high accuracy untouched. When we are on 30th version of iphone (daily charging), or the automatic watch has been serviced for the nth time, the solar watch will still be rolling along. Also for a hobby that is deemed materialistic, its a very enviromentally friendly option. Top solar watches video?

[@markikn3183]

Totally. My Seiko SSC019 is a wonderful watch, ten years old and the love is stronger every year.

[@markikn3183]

@@yurymol With a pinch of salt Seiko "guarantees" its accumulator batteries to 80% power after 10 years. That degradation will start to lapse faster under normal use, but if a full charge gives you nine months on a new accumulator you'll easily get two or three months use from a single charge of a 20 year old watch. I also have a wonderful V158-0AS0 from 2005 with an oldskool vibe. I charge it every every so often in the sunny window, no biggie, it keeps on running. Amazingly accurate, seconds hand perfect alignment too :-)

[@skygrey7237]

Only issue with solar is that if you’re stuck in a cave with no light. Watch May die. But a mechanical still works. Unlikely scenario. But something to ponder. Lol.

[@markikn3183]

@@skygrey7237 you better hope your lume holds out 😁. There's always Timex Indiglo 😁😁

[@arcadevampire]

@@skygrey7237 many solar watches have 6mth power reserve. If I were stuck in a cave for 6 months, not knowing the time would be least of my worries

[@thisoldbelair]

Great video. Your level headed viewpoints and openness to all types of collections is what sets you apart from the other channels on KZbin. Keep up the great content 💪🏻

[@itxofficial8281]

I owned Quartz watches pretty much my entire life, and only really started to appreciate mechanical movements last year. Up until that point, buying a new watch wasn't about the movement working in it, but purely how it looked and how accurately it could tell the time. Over the last 2 decades, I've owned a bunch of cheap Casios and later a few Seiko Quartz chronographs with metal bracelets. I never understood why Quartz and mechanical watches could not co-exist in this world. Both have their advantages, but for the average consumer (which is about 90% of the western world), preferring a quartz watch over a mechanical is an absolute no-brainer - both in terms of cost and accuracy. However, If you're all about craftsmanship and horology, a mechanical watch is of course the better option.

[@greenbow7888]

I'm not so sure any more. The craftmanship behind modern mechanical movements, is probably done on a computer. They likely tell the computer what complications they want, and where on the dial.Then the computer tells them what diameter cogs to cut, how many teeth, and where to put them. I doubt any classical watchmaking goes on any more. The quality of the timepiece now is probably more down to the quality of parts and finsh. Like Rolex who over produce their parts. Hence they are known for quality, robustness, and making a solid watch.

[@nowayout8773]

I read about a Dan Henry chronograph where the main watch is quartz and the chronograph function is mechanical- two movements in the same watch. Not sure if the mechanical function needs servicing. 🤔 It's interesting but I don't know the details because his website is in English but I think it was written by a non native English writer or speaker But meca quartz are used.

[@nickinportland]

I have a timex gmt and it’s great. Wearing the real deal can be scary these days. Now I can have the same features but not worry about damage.

[@eruno_]

quartz are so underrated

[@dtac_10_29]

I love my quartz watch, its my go to when I am in a rush to head out and the other automatic watches are not winded

[@LeftThumbBreak]

Once eco drive came, there was almost no real reason for an automatic since changing the capacitor is measured in decades. Going on 20 years with an utterly bashed Citizen ti chrono eco drive that survived motocross, roadracing and desert rucks at 135 degrees to Wyoming winters and travel to all parts of the world. I do appreciate automatic watches like grandfather clocks and sometimes for formal business but they are no doubt a hobby. If telling the time, day, date, and stopwatch in all conditions is the goal, a well made solar quartz has no equal.

[@Alex-ni5bk]

Casio illuminator is my go to beater watch. I’ve had way more people ask me about it than any of my luxury mechanical watches too lol

[@user-rm2lz1pq4e]

I used to think the same about quartz too, though grew up and had a few from fossil to bulova. Had.a.Movado SE Extreme, since sold, first automatic, though amazing watch, the winding to set every few days had to adjust to. Now I have the Longines Conquest VHP GMT as my quartz, accuracy, technology and quality is unreal for the price I got it for and Longines Hydroconquest as my automatic. Thank you Teddy for the reviews, have watched a few and are very insightful and helpful. Cheers and all the best!

[@stamatisiliadis8844]

Very honest video from a guy who loves mechanical watches! I personally also loves the art that offer a mechanical watch! But on the other side, I do appreciate what quartz watches offer! With the biggest of all, the affordable price! For all those reasons you also mentioned Teddy in this video, my latest watch (bought it at 15th of January 2022), was a great looking and very economic Citizen Eco Drive! ofc I'm in love with it :) Have a Great - Happy - Healthy - Year, you and your loved ones Teddy Baldassare and keep doing what you do, because you are very good at it!

[@shadowdemon5730]

Excellent video , Teddy. You continue to impress. I’m pretty new to the hobby and was turned off by quartz watches just from what people and other vids were saying online. But I now feel that quartz watches would suit me better. I’d like to try an automatic but right now , quartz seem to make much more sense for me and my lifestyle. Glad the Tisso Gentleman comes in both automatic and quartz.

[@craigkovach8475]

I love my mechanicals but also have such a fascination for my solar watch and my Eco-drive that just run and run and are so accurate. Why not love all the watch types? I have a mechanical wall clock that I wind once a month and quartz clocks, too - same thing I enjoy all of them.

[@Conundrum191]

One of my oldest watches is a $50 quartz steel watch that died in 2020 after owning it for probably 25 years. $10 and 2 months later, I was able to get a replacement movement for it, dismantle it and take the parts I needed (mainly the circuit board and crown gearing) and it's back up and running again. Honestly I vastly prefer mechanicals/autos, but like you said, quartz can have a place...and is why so far I also have a Bulova Lunar Pilot and a G-Shock 5610 in my collection. Also, although I do like having to wind and set my mechanicals before a day of wearing them, something can also be said for when you are running late in the morning, and can just grab one of your quartz watches instead and be out the door seconds later.

[@chrispy3866]

Just found tour channel yesterday. Absolute gold. Between you and TGV, i’m going to shortly have a much lighter wallet. Thank you for,what you do.

[@herkamer98]

Nice review TB! I had the same aversion to quartz as well, once I discovered the beauty, artistry and complexity that goes into a finely-made automatic or mechanical watch. How could the simple, humble quartz ever compete? Well... Once I realized it's NOT a competition, but rather an appreciation of the technology , as you put it, I started noticing some amazing timepieces with the quartz beating at it's hummingbird heart. The last two out of three watches I've purchased are quartz, as a matter of fact, but not your run-of-the-mill quartz. No sir. The first was the Longines Conquest V.H.P. (Very High Precision), with an accuracy rating of 5 seconds per YEAR. Just astounding! Add a date complication, a perpetual calendar, a battery saving feature, a time keeping feature while in battery saving mode (reactive the watch movement, and it immediately returns to the accurate time automatically), and end-of-life mode and an end-of-power mode. Not to mention it's a damned fine looking watch. All Swiss made, and it's near perfect. Next is the Seiko Premier Kinetic Drive Moonphase. Not only is this watch stunning to look at, but it uses either a winding or movement (like an automatic) to generate a battery reserve of up to one full month of power. It sports a power meter with gradations from days, weeks to month, day and date dials, 24-hour indicator, and a beautiful moonphase at the top. I consider these two quartz watches near the top of my collection not because they're quartz, but because of the innovation behind what a quartz watch can really do. I still love my autos, but these two beauties hold a special place in my collection.

[@spittinvenom9671]

Always need a solid quartz in the collection, mine is an Omega SMP with electric ⚡️ blue dial. Never fails to never fail. A beauty, eh!

[@paulsteele6120]

Having cleaned out equipment boxes last used 15years ago before I left the Mercantile Marine, I came across an old Seiko 7006-8120, putting it on a winder showed that the capacitor is (maybe) compromised as it only charges to the first sector on the dial. More chargeing did not improve matters, so I tried the electric toothbrush charger as featured in KZbin videos. All to no avail and I will approach a trusted watch maker when he comes back from COVID isolation (his children brought it home from school). He did warn me that parts for these early models are running out, however when he's back on deck I'll see if he can fix it, for, even though the watch is (maybe) compromised it is not stuttering and keeps time with no error what so ever. Just tell people there is a place for well designed electronic watches even those that need a battery to function. They just do a great job of measuring time! It' rather like having a girl (or boy) friend who is clever, funny, articulate and good to have around, but has looks like the south end of a north bound pig, against that of someone who looks great, but , is self absorbed (i.e. has Tasmanian Lobster syndrome, that is a great body and a head full of shit!!), and is expensive to keep!

[@kevinbassvocals]

You hit all the points on why to own a quartz watch, especially for me. Easy to fix myself. Cost! That's a biggy. Like vintage tube amplifiers and motorcycles with carbs, repair bills can be expensive, and fewer people are around these days to fix that stuff. I also suck at remembering to wind and move my mechanicals, as well as watering plants, etc...

[@henningbutz2289]

I currently only have 2 watches with the absolute intent of adding more to when a proper occasion to celebrate arises. One is a green Alpinist, the other one is a Longines Conquest VHP (very high precision quartz movement) i had it for about 6-8 months now and it's only 1 second fast since i got it. I will keep it for the forseeable future to set the correct time on my automatic watches and have a backup watch that i can just grab and be done with it. Its incredible to think that i will only need to set the proper time again once per battery. Its truly th epiphany of "set and forget"

[@prstito]

I’m partial to Grand Seiko Quartz. Absolute monster of a movement. Some of my clients say that their watches run better than factory spec after owning for a year…. So better than +/- 10sec/year…. Wild

[@DatamarkSystemsSL-Spain]

I 100% agree with Teddy's point of view. It's great to open my drawer of watches, choose one and put it on instantly, apart from the fact that I love my watches for both their build quality and their aesthetics and a quartz watch offers me almost everything I look for in a watch. Of course, as a purely collector's item I prefer a mechanical movement.

[@IlluminatingWatches]

Thanks for giving a bit of Quartz love !

[@70DMac]

I purchased an Alpina Alpiner quartz watch for less than 300.00 USD. Swiss made with sapphire crystal and Swiss rhonda movement on a metal bracelet. Such an excellent watch for the money. I cant get over the quality of this watch. I mostly have automatics but love this quartz watch. I also have a Luminox Pacific diver in quartz and an older Seiko 100m Chrono plus a g shock.

[@mrdempsey203]

My favourite watch in my collection (which features numerous automatics) is my tossot prx quartz. Its just such a fantastic piece

[@poddybhoy]

I have started looking at watches because of my job, I work as a train conductor. Time is very important to us when dispatching a train. I use a smart watch at the moment but the amount of times I've been in work and realise it hasn't charged fully and I need to use my phone. Which when your on a platform looking at your phone when your meant to be watching signals and that passengers getting on and off safety is not a great look. As it's something so important to my job I would not mind getting something a bit more higher class. So was looking into the automatic market. But the more and more I looked into it learned how each type of watch works. Automatic watches did not seem a practical option especially when seconds matter on my job so it seems like it will have to be quartz.

[@SilverBackELTorro]

This video cleared my decision on picking the Quartz Tissot PRX blue dial. After careful consideration I believe the powermatic 80 is over priced for that dial and movement. Thanks for this Video. Very helpful.

[@thewatchdoctor]

Hey Teddy. Serial collector and wouldn’t be able to have anything close to a full collection without my quartzes. Love my Bulova lunar pilot and Marathon Navigator. Great video. Thanks again. The ⏱👨‍⚕️

[@dannysimenauer5745]

You are spit on. Quartz watches are very affordable and you can wear them as “mens jewelry”.

[@sorinbunea471]

I have only one watch for 10 years a Swatch Irony quartz movement and its absolutely gorgeous even today it's like brand new and keep time very accurate 😊

[@BoozewithNick]

What a great video. You do so much nuts-and-bolts educational content to guide new- and not so new- watch collectors. I have three quartz Tissot watches, a Boldr Venture GMT with a Ronda 515, and one of my first ever watches- a Casio Duro. Everyone should own a Duro, and I learned about the model from one of your videos, actually. Keep up the great work, these videos are a huge service to the watch collecting community.

[@52dislikes]

My best friend passed away, but in 1990 gave me a dead gold Omega Constellation from 1977. A jeweler said it would cost $500 to replace the movement. Recently I purchased a #329 battery and adapter, and placed a tiny bit of watch oil on the two arbors and the watch came to life! It must have set with no battery for the last 40 years. Tim said it was his father's watch, but after the battery died he just left in in his drawer. It's my favorite because of my long friendship with Tim.

[@DatejustDanny]

These kind of videos such as the in house vs eta video and now this one are some of the best watch videos on KZbin! Please keep going with these !!!

[@MrShinobi797]

Wearing my Citizen Calibre 2100 ( Mecha-Quartz Chronograph ) while watching this...Excellent content Ted. 👌🏽

[@mfesch7386]

I ve got two quartzes as everyday beaters. A tag Heuer Moondust, which was a gift from my girl, and an omega mariner. Love them both.

[@saintATM]

I really like the direction you are taking the channel teddy. keep up the good work

[@alanwilkinson4080]

You can look at watches on KZbin, etc. but I have found when you see a really good quality watch in life - it takes on a new lustre. They just look better in real life... I have been collecting various vintage Seikos - and I eventually bought an early King Quartz Seiko. It is comparatively small - but it is a King Seko! And it is a beautiful piece - further, take a look at any pictures you can find of the quartz movements in these watches - they really are beautiful in their own right.

[@kalekalekale]

Great take on it, I completely agree. I'm a nice watch + G-Shock kinda guy, and the only reason my nice watch (Seiko Alpinist SPB241) is mechanical is because it wasn't available in quartz. Even though I wear this watch very often, I still find that I have to keep it running or set the time more than I'd like. That said, the multiple beats per second and interacting with it does have a charm to it. I wonder if companies are missing a business opportunity by offering a quartz version for say $100 less when it costs $200 less to make (say for a $1000ish mid range piece). My ultimate watch would be the Grand Seiko SBGX319.