Checking the watchmaking material is among the first thing everyone does when acquiring a watch. Some may think it is not important, but it plays a critical role. The watches we wear constitute of varying materials based on the model and the brand. Every watch sold at MEGALITH STORES constitute of any of the materials explained here. In this context, we have explained in detail the 9 most common watchmaking materials for wristwatches.
Watchmaking Materials:Ceramics
Ceramic is recognized as a watchmaking material, and the majority of watchmakers have adopted it. Among the materials on our list, ceramic has the highest resistivity to scratch. Although not much research has been done on the metal like it is the case with steel, it continues to give positive results.
It exists in multiple ways, and people value it because manufacturers incorporate different colors in the metal. This results in the production of high-quality watches that everyone will be happy to acquire.
Pros of Ceramics
- High level of scratch resistance
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Smooth
- Stylish due to multiple colors
Cons of Ceramic
- A bit costly
- Low ductility and hence easy to break
Due to its hypoallergenic property, Ceramic does not result in an allergic reaction. This property has enabled multiple clients to acquire ceramic watches.
Watchmaking Materials:Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is an alloy that has been used for watchmaking for many years. Up to today, it tops the list of the most used watch material. Statistics evidence that 8 out of 10 people will have a watch made of this material. Watchmakers and buyers prefer it because of the qualities it showcases.
The dominance over the years has made it outstand other materials, and it is now the preference in high end watches due to affordable prices.
Pros of Stainless Steel
- Inexpensive when compared to metals like silver and Gold
- Flexibility and can mimic other materials
- Easy to maintain
- Durable and resistant to damage
Cons of Stainless Steel
- Heavier than other metals
- May carry allergens
Among the prominent Stainless Steel watches include the Mechanical Men Watch 8092M and the Quartz Men Watch 8046M. Both watches are made with customers in mind. You will also notice that they have included various color at the dial, strap, and the case.
Watchmaking Materials:Titanium
Titanium exists as an alloy, and it is a raw material in Titanium watches. Unlike materials like stainless steel that have been in use for centuries, the first Titanium watch was manufactured several decades ago. From that time henceforth, many manufacturers are considering it often.
You cannot ignore the advantages that come along with this material. Every buyer wants a watch that will not get scratched easily when it falls. Nobody wants a heavy watch that makes them tire. If you need comfort, then choose Titanium.
Pros of Titanium
- Guaranteed strength
- Very light when compared to stainless steel
- Free from allergic reactions
- Good looks
Cons of Titanium
- Costly than normal watches
- Quality maintenance is needed.
Brands that use Titanium, which is an alloy of either vanadium, molyb, iron, aluminum or other metals, have received overwhelming sales. Automotive and medical industries also prefer Titanium in device manufacturing.
Watchmaking Materials:Silicone Rubber
Silicone rubber watches are very common. Due to their rubbery and soft nature, they tend to be very comfortable. The rubber that makes these watches is the same used in kid’s toys and some medical devices. Also, many sports watches are made of rubber, and this guarantees comfort during sporting activities.
You will love a colorful and durable watch. Due to its synthetic nature, the material will adapt multiple colors based on what the manufacturer prefers, and it will give the value of your money.
Pros of Silicone Rubber
- It is waterproof
- Guarantees comfort anytime you wear
- Affordable
- Good looking features
Cons of Silicone Rubber
- People associate them with childish vibes
These watches are not for everyone. Go for them if you like a funky, comfortable, and durable watch.
Watchmaking Materials:Tungsten
Tungsten is a quality material used in watchmaking. Previously, it was not common, because not much has been researched about the material. Today, many companies are using the material due to its outstanding attributes.
Leave alone the beauty that comes with this material, due to its grey color; the quality is on another level. You will hardly find many watches using this material. Those using it as their choice, prefer having it as the case material. Due to minimal production, it tends to be costly.
Pros of Tungsten
- It is a hard material
- Highly resistant to scratches
- Unique
- Beautiful and classy due to its dark grey characteristic color
Cons of Tungsten
- Expensive because the material, especially in the purest form, is hard to find
Due to many people getting the preference of the material, its usage in watchmaking is likely to increase spontaneously. If you have been thinking of purchasing a Tungsten watch, do it for now. It is because it might cost you more in days to come.
Watchmaking Materials:Gold
The word alone sounds luxury. Gold is a precious metal that exists in pure or combined form. Everyone wants the pure form, although it can be a challenge, especially if it is your very first time buying a gold watch. The percentage of pure gold is expressed in karats.
The standard percentage of gold in high-end watches and pieces of jewelry is 75% (18 Karat gold). There are various forms of gold based on the percentage of metals present. They can either be white, yellow, rose or red.
White Gold
It is pure gold that comes in combination with rhodium, silver or palladium.
Yellow Gold
The pure form of gold alloyed with other metals.
Rose Gold
It is pure gold combined with some percentage of copper. In some cases, a little percentage of silver is added to tone the metal to the desired levels.
Pros of Gold
- Gold is the most unreactive al metal ever known and thus 100% corrosion free
- Symbol of luxury
- Classy and unique
Cons of Gold
- The most expensive in our list
- Heavy to some extent when compared with other materials
Gold watches have been used for many years. Many people associate them with class and luxury. Due to the high prices that the watch sells, you will only find them among people with status, kings, and nobles in the society.
Watchmaking Materials:Plastic
Plastics are common everywhere. Watchmakers use them due to their availability and low price. However, many prefer to include some sections of the plastic on the watch and not every part. Not many prefer plastics, not unless it is a very classy watch. If you have to acquire plastic watch, you must be ready to maintain it.
Remember that it is elastic, and stretching it might result in breakage. Besides, plastic is not shiny, and if you are that person who values shiny items, it is early time you sought alternatives.
Pros of Plastic
- Variety of colors
- Lightweight
- Very cheap
- Available in most stores
Cons of Plastic
- Easy to break
- Stains easily
- The wrong disposal leads to environmental pollution
Plastic has been used to make a low budget and high budget watches. However, it is not the best efficient and innovative material for watchmaking. The good thing about these watches is that they sell at low prices, and you can acquire any when a need arise.
Watchmaking Materials:Carbon Fiber
Carbon fiber constitutes multiple carbons joined together in a long chain. It is a rare material due to its luxury nature. If you value quality, carbon fiber watches are among the best to pick. You will hardly find many people with carbon fiber watches.
Other than watches, the carbon fiber is a raw material in manufacturing sports equipment, luxury, and sports cars. That means it is not cheap. Among the luxurious watches ever made, carbon fiber watches are on the list.
Pros of Carbon Fiber
- Lightweight material
- Strong compared with many metals
- Luxurious
Cons of Carbon Fiber
- Very expensive
It is a good feeling wearing a watch made of fiber. It is cool wearing a watch that has a material same as the luxurious and fastest cars ever known. If you have the cash, go for it.
Watchmaking Materials:Physical Vapor Deposition
Physical Vapor Deposition is a method that involves coating through addition of carbide, oxide and nitride layers. These coating materials have an ionic attraction nature, and this enables them to stick perfectly well on the surface of the watch.
When acquiring a watch with this material, you need to be aware of its qualities to know if it will suit you best. It is not much scratch proof compared to steel. Manufacturers have preferred this material for mainly the sport activity watches.
Pros of Physical Vapor Deposition
- Durable
- Reduces friction with metal components
Cons of Physical Vapor Deposition
- Wears easily
Conclusion
From the article, it is clear that stainless steel is still the preferred choice among many people. Watchmakers are striving to get the best materials and modify the present to continue offering the best services. However, no matter the material, what matters most is the craftsmanship and the detail of the watch.