Choosing the right watch often comes down to one essential question: Quartz or Mechanical?
Both watch types offer unique advantages, distinct craftsmanship, and different wearing experiences. Whether you’re a collector, a first-time buyer, or a lover of vintage timepieces, understanding these differences will help you choose the watch that truly fits your style and lifestyle.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to decide which movement suits you best.

More info: Vintage Seiko Tisse Rectangle Bracelet – SS Tone, White Dial (LX1812)

What Are Quartz Watches?

Quartz watches are powered by a small battery that sends electricity through a quartz crystal, creating vibrations that keep the watch ticking accurately. Since their introduction in the 1970s, quartz watches have become known for their precision, affordability, and low maintenance.

Key Features of Quartz Watches

• Extremely accurate timekeeping
• Minimal maintenance (mostly battery replacement)
• Generally more affordable
• Lightweight and often slimmer in design

Because of their reliability and ease of use, quartz watches are perfect for daily wearers who want precision without the need for regular winding.

What Are Mechanical Watches?

Mechanical watches are powered by a complex assembly of gears, springs, and jewels. They do not rely on batteries. Instead, they run on energy stored in a wound mainspring. Mechanical watches come in two types: manual winding and automatic.

Key Features of Mechanical Watches

• Powered by craftsmanship and engineering—no battery needed
• Smooth sweeping second hand
• Highly collectible and appreciated for their artistry
• Requires regular maintenance and servicing

Mechanical watches are admired for their character, heritage, and emotional value—making them favorites among enthusiasts and collectors.

Accuracy Comparison

Quartz Watches:
✔ Highly accurate
✔ Typically lose or gain only a few seconds per month

Mechanical Watches:
• Slightly less accurate
• Can gain or lose several seconds per day depending on age, condition, and movement

If precision is your priority, quartz is the clear winner. But if you value craftsmanship and tradition, mechanical watches shine.

Maintenance Requirements

Quartz:

• Battery replacement every 1–3 years
• Minimal servicing needed

Mechanical:

• Regular servicing every 3–5 years
• More sensitive to shocks, moisture, and magnetism

Mechanical watches require more love and care—but many collectors enjoy the ritual almost as much as wearing the watch itself.

Longevity and Durability

Quartz watches are durable and easy to maintain, but mechanical watches—when well cared for—can last for generations.

Mechanical watches excel in long-term value, especially vintage models from Seiko, Omega, Citizen, and other respected brands.

Cost Differences

Quartz watches are typically more affordable due to their simpler design and mass production.

Mechanical watches, however, often cost more because each movement involves intricate craftsmanship and advanced engineering.

Collectors view mechanical watches as functional art pieces, which explains their higher resale and sentimental value.

Which One Suits You Best?

Choose Quartz If You Want:

• High accuracy
• Low maintenance
• Better affordability
• A convenient daily-wear watch

Choose Mechanical If You Want:

• Heritage, character, and craftsmanship
• A collectible timepiece
• A sweeping second hand
• A long-term investment to pass down

Your choice depends on lifestyle, aesthetic preference, and how much appreciation you have for horological artistry.

Conclusion

Both quartz and mechanical watches have their own strengths—and neither is objectively better. Quartz offers unmatched accuracy and convenience, while mechanical watches offer tradition, craftsmanship, and timeless charm.

Whether you choose precision or artistry, TokoReynaldo has a curated selection of authentic vintage timepieces to match your style and preference.

Explore our collection today and discover the watch that truly speaks to you.