Flyback, rattrapante or foudroyantes hands... There are many complications that accompany the chronograph function. Chronographs precisely measure a given time interval, independently of the watch's other functions. These timepieces thus act as both a classic watch and a chronometer. The chronograph hand can be started, stopped or reset, depending on the time interval to be calculated, using one or more push-buttons.
Extremely popular, chronographs are found in many models, past and present. Here are a few examples.
History and origins of chronographs
Dating back to the 19th century, the chronograph function is a relatively recent complication. Watchmaking authorities consider Louis Moinet's "Compteur de Tierces", manufactured in 1815, to be the very first chronograph in history. At the beginning of the 20th century, the first wrist chronographs were produced, equipped witha single pusher to activate the three functions "on", "off" and "reset". In 1934, a second pusher appeared on timepieces to independently manage the reset function. Finally, in 1969, the first automatic movements appeared on chronographs.
Several elements can be indicated on the chronograph. Among the most common, the tachometer (measures speed over a given distance of 1000 m), pulsometer (measures heart rate) and rangefinder (measures distance) provide additional information.
Some chronographs
Bubble 47 Chronograph by Corum
Powered by an automatic CO 771 caliber movement, this version enhances Corum's emblematic collection Bubble. Functions: hours, minutes, date display and chronograph function with single push-button. The dial, decorated with a shark's face, features a 30-minute counter and small seconds for even greater precision.
MARQ® Driver from Garmin
An ultra-precise sports chronograph par excellence, the MARQ® Driver is a true benchmark. The tachymeter and chronograph function let you record race times and calculate your speed on the track in the blink of an eye.
Discover all our chronograph timepieces in our e-boutique!
