Components & Materials
A watch is made from dozens or sometimes hundreds of individual components, each performing a specific mechanical, structural or aesthetic role. The materials used to manufacture those components can also have a significant effect on a watch’s appearance, durability, weight and performance.
This section explores the physical parts and materials used in watches, including cases, bezels, crowns, crystals, dials, hands, bracelets and straps. It also explains materials such as stainless steel, titanium, ceramic, sapphire, precious metals and the specialist materials increasingly used in modern watchmaking.
Glossary terms
Arabic NumeralsA watch component, material or construction term describing Arabic Numerals.
Baton MarkersA watch component, material or construction term describing Baton Markers.
BezelThe ring surrounding the watch crystal; it may be fixed, decorative or rotatable for timing or other functions.
ClaspThe fastening mechanism used to secure a watch bracelet or some straps around the wrist.
CrownThe external control used to wind a watch and/or set its time, date and other functions.
Crown GuardsA watch component, material or construction term describing Crown Guards.
CrystalThe transparent cover over a watch dial, commonly made from sapphire, mineral glass or acrylic.
Cyclops LensA watch component, material or construction term describing Cyclops Lens.
Date WindowA watch component, material or construction term describing Date Window.
Deployant ClaspA watch fastening type known as Deployant Clasp, used to secure a bracelet or strap around the wrist.
DialThe face of a watch on which the time and other information are displayed.
DLC CoatingA surface treatment known as DLC Coating, applied to watch components to alter appearance and/or surface properties.
Fixed BezelA bezel type or component described as Fixed Bezel, forming part of the ring around the watch crystal.
Fluted BezelA bezel type or component described as Fluted Bezel, forming part of the ring around the watch crystal.
Folding ClaspA watch fastening type known as Folding Clasp, used to secure a bracelet or strap around the wrist.
GasketA sealing component used around case openings to help protect a watch against water, dust and contaminants.
Gloss DialA watch dial style or construction known as Gloss Dial, used to define the appearance or structure of the watch face.
GMT HandA watch component, material or construction term describing GMT Hand.
GoldA material used in watch cases, bracelets or components, described in watch specifications as Gold.
Gold PlatingA surface treatment known as Gold Plating, applied to watch components to alter appearance and/or surface properties.