Basic Replica Watch Movements Explained
The movement is the “engine” of your watch. Here’s what you need to know about the types found in replicas.
Types of Movements: Quartz vs. Mechanical
- Quartz: Battery-powered, highly accurate, low maintenance.
- Mechanical: Powered by a wound spring, includes automatic (self-winding) and manual.
Popular Replica Movements
| Movement | Type | Used In | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| A2824 | Automatic | Many Swiss reps | Asian clone of ETA 2824 |
| Miyota | Automatic | Japanese reps | Reliable, affordable |
| Seagull | Manual | Chronographs | Chinese, decent quality |
| “Swiss ETA” | Automatic | High-end reps | Often Asian clone, not genuine |
Table: Movement Comparison
| Feature | Quartz | Automatic | Manual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Maintenance | Low | Medium | Medium |
| Sweep Hand | Ticks | Smooth | Smooth |
| Price | Low | Medium-High | Medium |
How to Identify a Movement
- Ask your dealer for movement photos.
- Search for “movement shots” of your desired model on forums.
- Learn to spot the telltale differences between gen and rep movements.
FAQ
1. Is Swiss movement always better?
Not always—many “Swiss” movements in reps are actually Asian clones. Quality varies.
2. Can I swap movements myself?
Unless you’re experienced, it’s best left to a watchmaker.
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