Best Chronograph Watches

Our Best Chronograph Watches Reviewed

A watch equipped with a chronograph not only indicates the prevailing time, it also allows the wearer to measure short intervals. The chronograph is operated by pressing one or more pushpieces. Typically watches equipped with a chronograph feature two pushpieces and, as well as recording an elapsed period using a central chronograph seconds hand, they will usually feature one or more registers to record minutes or hours. Some chronographs are designed from the outset to measure events, combining the time telling and stopwatch functions in one integrated movement. Alternatively, some chronographs employ a base movement with a module placed on top. Integrated movements are generally favoured by purists.

A chronograph mechanism draws power, on demand, from the gear train. This is done using a control system, either a cam or a column-wheel, to command the coupling clutch (horizontal or vertical). Most watch aficionados favour a column-wheel and vertical clutch arrangement as it confers a smooth pushpiece action and, once actuated, the central chronograph seconds hand moves without hesitation or stuttering.

There are several highly desirable ownership options that build on the usefulness of a chronograph with added functionality. These include the ‘flyback chronograph’ and the über-desirable ‘split-seconds chronograph’ (aka the ‘rattrapante’).