If you are starting out as a collector of Swiss replica watches, you’re likely discovering just how daunting some of the terminology can be – that is why we have taken the time to set out a range of some of the more obscure terms you will hear bandied about the Swiss replica message boards by other replica watches fans – page through this list, and if there are any terms you still have questions about, feel free to drop us a line and we will be happy to expand this list for you!

A Glossary of Watch Terms:

Altimeter: This is a mechanism in some Swiss replica watches that measures your altitude, allowing you to know how high above sea level you are. It works by gauging barometric pressure and presenting the data in terms of your elevation.

Aperture: A name we often come across in photography, this means a small opening. In horology, this references the tiny spaces where information is displayed inset into the watch face, often the date or year.

Bi-Directional Rotating Bezel: Perhaps self explanatory, this is a bezel [the decorated ring that surrounds the watch-face] which can be moved in both directions. This often performs a calculating function, where mathematical equations are being done.

Cabochon: This is a stone or gem which is affixed to the timepiece, and is always carved into a convex round shape, generally in an oval.

Camberred: This means a dial or bezel that has been crafted with an arched shape to it.

Flyback Hand: This is the one that measures seconds on a chronograph Swiss replica – you will often find athletes taking advantage of this feature to count laps or time across the finishing line.

Grande Sonnerie: A French term that essentially means ‘big ringer’, this will alert hourly and also at the quarter hour mark, much like some large clocks in cathedrals.

Jump Hour Indicator: If you are accustomed to seeing an hour hand, this might be an unexpected design feature for customers new to replica watches. This replaces the classical sweeping timekeeper with a figure, often a Roman Numeral. In some experimental watches coming out of Tokyo, the Jump Hour Indicator is simply a color or pattern denoting the hour.

Micron: You will come across this one when discussing the coating of precious metals applied to the bracelet or bezel. One micron is a unit used to measure plating, especially when assessing the thickness of gold applied to the watch.

Pulsimeter: Believe it or not, this is a feature that will actually follow and display your pulse rate, taken through contact points on the wrist where the timepiece encounters your skin.

Skeleton Case: This is a great idea for those folks fascinated with the inner workings of watches: a clear case that allows us to see the movement of the watch in action.

Tonneau: This is an alternative style that breaks away from the classic round and flat face. In this case it is round and barrel shaped, and lies horizontally across the wrist. Generally paired with digital displays, as these are usually broadcast on a rectangular LCD plane, there are also a number of astounding analog pieces of this nature.

Hopefully this provides you with a better knowledge of the terminology behind your favorite, or prospective Swiss replica watches – feel free to contact us and inquire further if you are still curious about any definition.