Many watches on the market have a chronograph function. But what is it? Is it just a series of subdials on the watch’s face?

A chronograph is a specific type of watch that has a built-in stopwatch function, which is used to measure the elapsed time of the interval. The stopwatch feature often appears as a series of subdials on a watch’s face, each of which individually measures seconds, minutes, and hours. The more complex chronograph designs can incorporate extra hands to measure tenths of a second or even hundredths of a second. The stopwatch feature is particularly useful for athletes. Some chronographs are operated by means of one button that is placed on the side of the case, the so-called pusher. One press starts the stopwatch, while two presses stop it. The next press resets the result and the hand returns to its initial position.

Watches with a chronograph feature a more complicated mechanism than traditional watches because they include more accurate systems of measuring time. That is why chronograph watches are often more expensive than standard models. The most basic chronograph features only a second hand, which starts measuring time as soon as the button is pressed on the side of the case. The more complicated watches have even three chronograph subdials which measure tenths of a second or even hundredths of a second.

A chronograph is particularly useful for athletes. It’s difficult to think of a sport discipline, in which precise time measurement doesn’t matter. Thus, chronograph watches are essential for any athlete who aims to break all the records. The chronograph is mostly used to measure time while running. Although there are many electronic watches available on the market, many people decide to buy analogue watches with a chronograph. One of the reasons is their versatile look. They can be worn with both sporty outfits and professional attire. Chronograph watches are also ideal for sports coaches and instructors who need to check the time of their charges and at the same time want to maintain a stylish and exclusive look.

Our first proposal is Zeppelin Transatlantic 7694-4 (pictured above). Not only does it look very elegant, but also has two chronograph subdials and a 24-hour indicator. The light dial in a beautiful silver colour scheme makes all values of the dial easy-to-read. Another interesting proposition is Iron Annie Bauhaus Solar Chronograph IA-5086-5 (pictured above), which is run by a solar-powered movement. Of course, in the age of smartwatches, which have hundreds of functions and possibilities, chronograph watches seem to look a bit outdated. However, classic watches are the most durable and water-resistant devices. And this is a real advantage, especially for outdoor enthusiasts such as cyclists and runners. Moreover, such watches usually feature a quartz or automatic movement, which means that they operate much longer than smartwatches, which have to be charged every day.