Measure speed with a tachymeter on your watch!
Various
Measure speed with a tachymeter on your watch!
Have you ever wondered how you can quickly and easily measure your average walking speed using a watch? It may seem abstract at first, but it's actually quite simple. Even if you didn't know that a watch could take such measurements, you've likely come across the term for this particular function before. Can you guess what it is?
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Functionality of watches with a tachymeter
What exactly is a tachymeter and how does it work? Are a tachymeter and a tachymeter scale the same thing? Which watches have a tachymeter function? Let's find out!
A tachymeter – what is it?
A tachymeter is a feature that is commonly found in chronographs. When you examine a watch, you'll notice that a chronograph typically consists of two or three sub-dials that measure elapsed time. In contrast, a tachymeter is an additional scale on the bezel or dial, which is marked with numerical graduations.
The manufacturers typically position the tachymeter scale in a specific area of the watch, either on the outer bezel that surrounds the crystal and is attached to the case or the inner bezel, which is positioned directly under the crystal or on the outer part of the dial.
The tachymetric scale simplifies the process of measuring the speed of people or moving objects over a distance of one kilometer. This value can be expressed in a range of metric units, including kilometers per hour (km/h or kph) or miles per hour (mph). While other units may be used, they are less commonly employed.
How does a tachymeter work? How do you measure speed with a tachymeter?
We already know exactly what a tachymeter is. Then it remains to check how exactly this function works. To measure your speed over a distance of 1,000 metres using a tachymeter, start by activating the chronograph at the beginning of your journey. The stopwatch seconds hand will record the elapsed time. When you reach your destination, which is one kilometre away, stop the chronograph and refer to the tachymeter scale. The scale is numerically graduated and will display your average speed for the distance just travelled. For example, if you covered 1,000 metres in 20 seconds, the tachymeter would show that you were travelling at an average speed of 180 km/h.
The same applies if you want to take the same measurement, but over a shorter distance. Let's say, for example, that this time it is 100 metres. Start the chronograph at the beginning of the distance and stop it immediately at the end. Remember that 100 metres is equal to 1/10th of the entire tachymeter scale (1 km). If you covered the 100 metres in 20 seconds, the tachymeter would again indicate 180 km/h. However, since you only covered 1/10th of the distance represented by the tachymeter scale, you need to divide this value by 10. After this calculation, you will find that your average speed over the 100 metres was 18 km/h.
What watches have a tachymeter function?
In addition to the chronograph function, the tachymeter is a popular complication that manufacturers use in producing watches designed for pilots, automotive enthusiasts and athletes. The tachymeter scale is a valuable tool for individuals looking to improve their performance in competitions or to prepare effectively for car or horse races. In general, sports watches with a tachymeter function are useful across a wide range of sports disciplines.
The tachymetric scale is a common feature in sports watches, aviation watches, and automotive watches. If you are in the market for a sporty watch that can be worn daily, there are many budget-friendly options available from the Fossil Decker and Lorus Sport collections.
For professional cyclists, rally drivers, runners, and triathletes, we recommend high-quality sports watches with advanced tachymeter features. Some of the best options on the market are offered by top Swiss manufacturers like Tissot and Certina. We particularly recommend checking out PRC-200, PRS 516 and DS Podium collections.
If you're in search of a functional aviation or military watch with a tachymeter function, and you also value timeless timepieces, there are several collections to consider, including the Zeppelin 100 Jahre, Yema, Junkers, Traser and Luminox.
Where to buy watches with a tachymeter?
Are you looking for a reliable sports watch at an affordable price? Check out our selection of watches with a tachymeter! Our website offers a wide variety of options to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that meets your needs.
Discover sports watches with a tachymeter
