Watchamacallit wrote:Why would anyone buy a mechanical watch? You're pretty much romanticizing the history of horology and mechanical gear machines as a whole.mischaman wrote:Why would anyone buy a quartz watch? You're pretty much insulting the history of horology and human engineering as a whole.
And Yes - both statements are absurd. All types of wrist watches have their place. Including smart watches.
Long live the battery!....at least the ones powering our quartz watches.
Whether or not the original question was in jest or not, the fact is that quartz watches far outsell mechanicals worldwide. The history of horology runs the gamut of clocks from sand and water power through mechanical, electro-mechanical, battery power, electric, Quartz and solar. Watches have followed a similar path from mechanical through battery powered electrics, Quartz, electronic, solar and now smart watches.
Through all these years of evolution we have reached a point where one has many options to suit ones preferences for form, function and lifestyle.
While I myself have a predominately mechanical collection, I currently wear a Quartz watch more often during the day now for the simplicity of them. When I was going to work on a daily basis I much preferred the mechanicals. When I leave the house I usually change to a mechanical as I do feel more comfortable with them. My 2 daily beaters are the C4 Peregrine and a Citizen titanium solar. I wear these because they both take a beating while I work on clocks and both are easily touched up when necessary.
Why would anyone buy a Quartz watch? Simplicity, cost (usually less expensive), convenience, fashion....
Why would anyone by a mechanical? The joy of having a little engine on your wrist. The feeling one gets when going through the daily act of handwinding that little mechanical marvel. The wonderful sensation of the Valjoux wobble when wearing a 7750 Chrono or an SH21 automatic......
I have only touched on a few reasons why someone would buy one over another. I am willing to bet a few others will chime in with their own reasons.