The three types of watch movements: quartz, automatic, and manual explained

The three types of watch movements: quartz, automatic, and manual explained

A wristwatch is more than just a time-telling accessory — it’s a piece of engineering art that reflects both precision and personality. Yet, beneath the elegant dial lies the true heart of every timepiece: its movement. Understanding what drives your watch helps you appreciate its craftsmanship — whether you prefer the effortless accuracy of quartz, the self-sustaining elegance of an automatic, or the timeless ritual of a manual movement.

“Every watch movement tells a story — one of precision, motion, and the enduring pursuit of time itself.”

At its core, the watch movement is the mechanism that powers everything — from the sweep of the hands to the rhythm of the seconds.


There are three fundamental types of movements, each offering a unique story of innovation and heritage:


Quartz movement

The most common and reliable choice today, quartz watches are powered by a small battery that sends an electrical current through a quartz crystal. This crystal oscillates at a precise frequency, ensuring exceptional accuracy with minimal maintenance. If you value convenience and precision, a quartz watch might be your perfect companion.


Manual movement

The manual movement is a true tribute to traditional craftsmanship. Before it starts ticking, it requires winding by hand — a small, deliberate ritual that connects you to the passage of time. Inside, the energy from winding is stored in a mainspring, slowly released to power the mechanism. Manual watches are for those who find beauty in precision and the art of slow living.


Automatic movement

Bridging the worlds of functionality and sophistication, the automatic movement winds itself through the natural motion of the wearer’s wrist. This self-sustaining energy system means your watch remains alive as long as you wear it. It’s a movement that reflects balance — between technology and tradition, motion and stillness.

At Nordgreen, our philosophy is built on blending timeless Danish design with thoughtful functionality. Many of our watches feature Japanese quartz movements, renowned for their reliability and energy efficiency — perfectly aligned with our values of longevity and simplicity.


If you admire craftsmanship and precision in equal measure, explore our collections to find the movement that suits your lifestyle — whether that’s a low-maintenance quartz companion or a statement of mechanical elegance.

Philosopher

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Choosing your watch movement is much like choosing your rhythm in life. Quartz reflects a modern, efficient lifestyle; automatic resonates with those who appreciate balance and flow; and manual speaks to the mindful observer who values every moment.


Whichever you choose, your watch should not only tell time — it should tell your story. With Nordgreen, you wear more than a movement; you wear a piece of Copenhagen’s design philosophy — where sustainability, simplicity, and style come together in perfect harmony.

The three types of watch movements: quartz, automatic, and manual explained

The three types of watch movements: quartz, automatic, and manual explained

Read more
The three types of watch movements: quartz, automatic, and manual explained

The three types of watch movements: quartz, automatic, and manual explained

Read more
The three types of watch movements: quartz, automatic, and manual explained

The three types of watch movements: quartz, automatic, and manual explained

Read more