Autoquartz watches have a hybrid movement that winds itself through movement – just like a normal automatic watch – but with a quartz time mechanism. In this way, an auto quartz combines the best of both worlds: precision and durability.
Autoquartz or Kinetic?
The terms Autoquartz and Kinetic are used interchangeably. This is just not entirely correct. Autoquartz is the collective name for all watches that contain this hybrid movement. Kinetic is the brand name used for Seiko autoquartz watches. Seiko is the inventor of this type of timepiece.
You can compare it with Luxaflex; This name is often used to refer to blinds, but is actually a brand name.
How does a Kinetic watch work?
The scientific definition of kinetic (motion) energy is “The energy an object possesses through its own motion.” So you could almost say that a mechanical automatic watch is also a kinetic watch. But the difference lies in the fact that in autoquartz, kinetic energy is converted into electricity, and in an automatic watch, a mechanical spring is wound.
In an autoquartz watch, the kinetic energy that is generated – just like in an automatic mechanical watch – by the movement of the rotor, is converted and stored in a capacitor.
The energy stored in the capacitor then powers a quartz movement. You can read more information about the movements in quartz watches and automatic watches here.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of an autoquartz watch?
Because a Kinetic watch combines the advantages of a quartz and automatic watch, it is just as accurate as a quartz watch. It is also energy efficient and does not require a battery.
Because the capacitor stores the kinetic energy – sometimes for years – autoquartz watches (depending on the timepiece used) rarely need to be charged. Even if the watch has not been worn for a long time. The use of a watch winder, as with regular automatic watches, is therefore not necessary.
To be fair, the capacitor (also called a capacitor), although it lasts a very long time and can be charged thousands of times, must be recalibrated or replaced by a watchmaker once every ten years. But, with this little maintenance you will have a watch that will last a very long time.
Another small disadvantage is the size. This type of timepiece is relatively thick due to the combination of quartz and mechanism, comparable to a regular automatic watch. On the other hand, you wear a very special piece of technology on your wrist.
What brands of autoquartz watches are there?
Since Seiko launched the first autoquartz watches in 1988, the brand has been a leader in this technology. Most autoquartz watches that are produced have a Seiko movement. The special watches from the Seiko Kinetic line are of course also available at Techzle.
The Swiss watch manufacturer ETA has also produced several autoquartz timepieces in the past. These timepieces were mainly used in brands of the Swatch Group, such as the legendary Tissot PRC200 line.
Why choose a Seiko Kinetic watch?
A Seiko Kinetic watch is the perfect choice for the enthusiast of automatic watches who likes the smallest possible deviation in time display. It is also nice that with a kinetic watch you do not have to think about whether it needs to be recharged. And, a kinetic watch is a sustainable choice; It lasts a long time and does not contain an environmentally unfriendly battery.