Watches

From the ancient practice of telling the time through the shadow thrown by the perpendicular stick affixed on the ground to the modern day sophisticated digital watches, the system to measure time has progressed at a rapid pace. A number of global manufacturers have created watches using varied innovative technologies. Basically watches are either battery operated or spring operated. Wrist watches are worn around the wrist with a leather or metal strap, while pocket timepieces are usually placed in the chest pocket with a chain connected to a button hole and were highly popular during Victorian times.

Spring loaded watches need to be wound everyday in order to work. An internal system of springs is designed to allow the hour, minute and second hands of the clock rotate at the required speed. Battery operated watches have an electrically stimulated mechanism. Batteries generally have a life of around one year after which they need to be changed. Some manufacturers boast of batteries having a life of more than ten years.

Some watches never require a battery change. Automatic watches work either with energy generation from the pulse beat of the user or through the movement of the user’s hand. This results in the watch automatically being wound. Another technology used is the incorporation of photo-electric cells in the watch that get charged when exposed to light. These cells convert light energy into electricity, enabling the watch to work. A five minute exposure to light is reported to allow the watch to work in virtual darkness for around 6 to 8 months. Truly, the humble watch has come a long way.