Ladies style watch with a thin, elongated face; usually rectangular in shape but may be oval.

The 'engine' of a mechanical watch-a large flat spring made from a piece of metal or composite.

In most mechanical watches, the movement balance makes 18,000 vibrations per hour.

The number of vibrations a second in hertz (Hz).

A movement based on a mainspring which is wound by hand. When wound it slowly unwinds the spring in an even motion.

Any function other than the indication of hours, minutes and seconds.

The Control Officiel Suisse de Chronometers, an independent regulatory council in Switzerland that tests and certifies watch movements for chronometer status.

X-rays do not damage watches, including mechanical ones.

Self illuminating paint used on hands and markers.

Nodule extending from the case that is used to set the time, date or any other function. Most pull out to set the time.

A watch feature that sounds an alarm at pre-set time or at regular intervals.

A bezel that can be turned, typically in an anti-clockwise direction. Whilst the reasons for a rotating bezel can vary, they are often associated with time keeping for watches with a diving theme.