Have you ever looked at your chronograph watch and wondered how to use it? A chronograph is a common type of watch complication that helps you track elapsed time. While it might look intimidating, learning to use a chronograph watch is quite simple. Read on to learn more about chronograph watches and how to use them.
Getting to Know Chronograph Watches
So, what is a chronograph watch? A chronograph is a particular watch complication that is essentially a stopwatch and is commonly used by athletes, pilots, and professionals who require precise timing. It can be used to track elapsed time (in real-time or relative to something else). You start the timer and stop it when you’ve completed a task, lap, or race, for example.
The first chronograph was created in the 1820s and was used to time racing horses by dropping dots of ink onto a rotating disc of paper. Since then, they have come a long way and are much more advanced, able to track time closely. Because of this, they’re popular watch complications in the various worlds of racing, including Formula 1, for keeping track of lap time among other things.
Both mechanical and quartz watches can feature a chronograph, which appears as sub-dials on the face of the watch or as a bezel around the crystal. Timex chronographs are quartz-powered, so you know that they are extremely accurate.
Breaking Down the Parts of a Chronograph Watch
When you’re first getting to know your chronograph watch, the different parts can be a bit confusing. But once you’re familiar with each function, you’ll feel much more confident using your timepiece.
Hands
Chronograph watches usually feature three hands: a second hand, a minute hand, and an hour hand. Unlike a three-hand watch without a chronograph complication, the second hand on a chronograph watch only moves when you’ve started the stopwatch. If the second hand on your watch is motionless, don’t assume it’s broken – it might just be dedicated to chronograph use. The main second hand is used to track seconds elapsed.
What is the purpose of the three sub-dials in a chronograph watch?
The sub-dials on the watch face display the chronograph’s measurements – while they can appear similar, the specific design and position of the sub-dials can differ from model to model. Typically, one sub-dial will show the running 24-hour time, a second shows the number of elapsed minutes since the timer was started, and the third shows the actual running seconds.
Pushers
Typically, the pushers will be situated above and below the crown on your watch and are used to start, stop, and reset the chronograph.
How to Use a Chronograph Watch
Using your chronograph is very simple as there are only 2 pushers involved in controlling the stopwatch.
To start the chronograph, press the top pusher. It will start to track seconds on the running seconds sub-dial. As time passes, the minutes and hours will also count up to track any time elapsed. Press the top pusher again to stop or pause the chronograph.
The bottom pusher is used to reset the sub-dials after pausing the chronograph. It may also be how you set a split time if your watch has that function.
Taking Care of Your Chronograph Watch
There’s nothing particularly special you need to know to take care of your chronograph watch beyond any regular watch maintenance and cleaning.
However, making sure your watch is fit-for-purpose is essential to its longevity – ensure your watch is water-resistant for any water-related sports, for example, to keep it from becoming damaged by water. Additionally, if you take part in rigorous outdoor activities, your watch needs to be able to keep up and be sturdy and durable enough for the task.
What Makes Timex Chronograph Watches Special?
When you purchase a Timex watch, you’re investing in 170 years of expertise. A Timex chronograph watch is designed with the utmost care and precision so that you know you’re getting the exact timings every time – no matter if you’re racing on a track, speeding through the water, or tracking your personal best at the gym.
SHOP THE CHRONOGRAPH WATCHES WE LOVE MOST RIGHT NOW:
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Q Timex Chronograph 40mm Leather Strap Watch40 mm Brown/Stainless Steel$209.00 -
Q Timex Chronograph 40mm Leather Strap Watch40 mm Blue/Stainless Steel$209.00 -
Q Timex Chronograph 40mm Leather Strap Watch40 mm Black/Stainless Steel$209.00 -
Marlin® Chronograph Tachymeter 40mm Leather Strap Watch40 mm Brown/Stainless Steel$179.00 -
Marlin® Chronograph Tachymeter 40mm Leather Strap Watch40 mm Black/Stainless Steel$179.00 -
Marlin® Chronograph Tachymeter 40mm Leather Strap Watch40 mm Brown/Stainless Steel$179.00
Key Takeaway
Chronographs are some of the most common types of watch complications. They are very useful for keeping track of elapsed time and are ideal for many different types of people to use in creative ways. Whether you’re keeping track of your cooking timer or you’re a pilot keeping an eye on your timings, you’ll find a chronograph watch, such as our Q Timex Chronograph Watches, useful.
Looking for a watch that can keep up with you on your travels and adventures? Check out our guide on the 10 Best Outdoor Watches from Timex.
