Perpetually running chrono

[Imelda]

Hi guys

Been wanting to clarify a question I have since I started getting into watches.

Does leaving the chronograph function running perpetually actually cause premature wear on the movement? And does this act also reduce the power reserve of the watch when left unworn?

Thanks

[edsonchan]

cause premature wear on the movement - In a way yes. but even if you don't use the watch at all for 5 years, it will still wear. as newbies like me, i really don't know how to justify if my watch's movement is worn off. Guess I will only bring it in for servicing when the there is something wrong with the watch.


Reduce power reserve? - I don't think so. This is not a battery. The spring for the chronograph should be different from the hour and minute hands. Think about it, I am not too sure about this....... hahhah

[rh1667]

If i remember correctly, for mine, i have 72 hrs power reserve if i do not use the chrono function, but if i use the chrono function, the power reserve will be lower then 72 hrs ( cant remember how much is the reduction ).

As for wear and tear if you do not wear the watch and it stopped, i think it will be mostly the lubricant dry up, but no wear and tear mechanically.

[BRABUS]

IIRC , using the chrono function does reduce the power reserve .

[Imelda]

Hmm maybe I put "wear and tear" this way:

If I wear the watch for say 5 years, with the chronograph running continously, will it wear the mechanism more than if i wear the watch for the same time as it's designed (chrono not running, activated only when needed).

I like to see the seconds hand running. But for chrono watches, the seconds hand is actually in the smaller sub-dial. Thus I sometimes leave the chrono running. I know a couple of friends who do this as well so I'm quite curious.

Thanks.

[ohlins]

If I wear the watch for say 5 years, with the chronograph running continously, will it wear the mechanism more than if i wear the watch for the same time as it's designed (chrono not running, activated only when needed).

of cos there's more wear and tear on the chrono mechanism....

[taxico]

there will be some wear to certain parts of the chrono, but it is actually very minor.

there are two schools of thought on keeping a chrono running or not. i think it's up to the owner - if it gives you joy to see the hand sweeping around, why not!

i've kept one of my chronos running whenever i use it because it doesn't have a second hand (it's a 2-register 12hour chrono from 1970s).

there has been no significant wear to any of the parts according to my watchmaker thus far - all parts are still original to the watch.

IIRC, the 7750 (not sure about other movements) actually has a higher power reserve if the chrono is left running.