Category: Support

Posted on by

How is a Watch “Water-Resistant”?

All FAE Wristwatches are water-restistant. But what does that mean? How does a watch resist water?

A watch is considered “water-resistant” when it is designed and constructed to withstand exposure to water to a certain extent. The water resistance of a watch is measured in units of pressure, typically expressed in meters, feet, or atmospheres (ATM).

To make a watch water-resistant, several features and techniques are employed:

  1. Gaskets and Seals: The watch case, crystal, and crown (the knob used for setting the time) are fitted with gaskets or O-rings made of rubber or silicone. These gaskets create a watertight seal and prevent water from entering the watch.
  2. Screw-down Crown: Many water-resistant watches have a screw-down crown. When the crown is pushed in and screwed down tightly, it creates a seal that helps prevent water from penetrating the case.
  3. Case Design: Water-resistant watches typically have a sturdy and well-sealed case design. The case back is often screwed down or secured with a gasket to ensure water resistance.
  4. Crystal: The watch crystal, which covers the dial, can be made from various materials such as acrylic, mineral glass, or synthetic sapphire. Synthetic sapphire is highly scratch-resistant and offers excellent water resistance.
  5. Water-Resistant Movement: The watch movement itself may be designed with special seals and lubricants to protect it from moisture and water damage.

It’s important to note that water resistance is not a permanent feature of a watch and can deteriorate over time due to wear, aging of gaskets, or damage to the seals. Also, water resistance is tested under laboratory conditions and may not guarantee the watch’s performance in real-world situations, such as rapid temperature changes, extreme depths, or underwater activities.

Phone Consulation: 15 Minutes

Phone Consulation: 15 Minutes

Whether you need help picking a FAE Watch movement type, or help designing your custom, hand-made watch, whether you have questions about your grandfather’s broken watch, or need help with ideas for an anniversary or graduation presents, we are just a phone call away. Even if you are considering a major watch purchase, and would like a different perspective on its relative value, don’t be afrai…

$19.95
Shop now

Water-Resistance Rating

Manufacturers usually specify the water resistance rating of a watch, indicating the depth to which it can be safely submerged. Common water resistance ratings include:

  • 30 meters (3 ATM or 100 feet): Suitable for everyday use, but not suitable for swimming or diving.
  • 50 meters (5 ATM or 165 feet): Can be worn while swimming in shallow water.
  • 100 meters (10 ATM or 330 feet): Suitable for recreational swimming and snorkeling.
  • 200 meters (20 ATM or 660 feet): Suitable for recreational scuba diving.
  • 300 meters (30 ATM or 990 feet) or higher: Suitable for professional diving and extreme water sports.

It’s important to check the watch’s water resistance rating and follow FAE guidelines to ensure your watch remains water-resistant. Of most importance, make sure to get your Annual Maintenance done on time, as this includes a new Case Back O-Ring Gasket which helps ensure long-term water-resistance.

FAE Pilot Watch - Made in USA

FAE Pilot Watch – Made in USA

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/embed?listType=playlist&list=PL0yjSttXSF0W445vM5Yv0fMiHMChkpONX&layout=gallery[/embedyt]For the pragmatic watch owner, the FAE Pilot Mechanical Watch. The Heartbeat of FAE.

$649.95
Shop now
Posted on by

How Does a Watch Mainspring Work?

A watch’s mainspring is a crucial component of its mechanical movement, providing the necessary power to drive the timekeeping mechanism. It’s a coiled spring made of a special alloy, typically steel or a composite material, with excellent elasticity properties.

The mainspring is housed in a cylindrical barrel, and one end of the spring is attached to the barrel while the other end is fixed to the watch’s gear train. When the mainspring is wound, either manually or through an automatic winding system, potential energy is stored in the coiled spring.

As the mainspring unwinds, it releases the stored energy gradually, transmitting power through the gear train. The gear train consists of a series of gears that transfer the rotational energy from the mainspring to the escapement mechanism. The escapement regulates the release of this energy in precise increments, enabling the movement’s timekeeping functions.

The unwinding mainspring exerts torque on the gear train, causing the gears to rotate and transmit power to various components of the movement. This includes the balance wheel, which oscillates back and forth, and the escapement mechanism, which controls the rate at which the energy is released.

The mainspring’s torque diminishes as it unwinds, affecting the amplitude of the balance wheel’s oscillations. To maintain accurate timekeeping, watchmakers utilize various mechanisms, such as a fusee or a constant-force mechanism, to counteract the decreasing torque and ensure consistent power delivery to the escapement throughout the mainspring’s unwinding cycle.

In summary, a watch’s mainspring functions as an energy storage device, converting the manual or automatic winding into potential energy. This energy is then released gradually to power the movement’s various components, ensuring accurate timekeeping.

Custom FAE Mechanical Watch - Made in USA

Custom FAE Mechanical Watch – Made in USA

For the pragmatic yet discerning watch owner, FAE offer the “Sapphire” edition of the Field Mechanical Watch which features all possible upgrades.

Original price was: $1,099.95.Current price is: $649.95.
Shop now
Posted on by

Does Porcelain Make the Best Watch Dial?

Porcelain can be considered a favorable material for a watch dial finish for several reasons:

  1. Aesthetic Appeal: Porcelain has a timeless and elegant appearance that can enhance the overall aesthetic of a watch. Its smooth and lustrous surface can give a sense of sophistication and luxury, making it an attractive choice for watch enthusiasts.
  2. Durability: Porcelain is known for its exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear. It is highly scratch-resistant and can withstand the rigors of daily use, ensuring that the watch dial maintains its pristine appearance over time.
  3. Color Stability: Porcelain has excellent color stability, meaning it does not fade or discolor easily even when exposed to sunlight or other environmental factors. This ensures that the dial’s color remains vibrant and consistent, adding to the longevity of the watch’s visual appeal.
  4. Resistance to Aging: Porcelain is resistant to aging, which means it retains its original look and properties for an extended period. This quality makes it an excellent choice for a watch dial that should maintain its allure and value over time.
  5. Unique and Prestigious: Porcelain dials are relatively rare compared to other materials like metal or enamel, which adds an element of uniqueness and exclusivity to a watch. The craftsmanship involved in creating a porcelain dial can be highly valued by collectors and connoisseurs, making it a prestigious choice.

Despite its merits, it’s worth noting that porcelain dials require skilled craftsmanship and precision during the manufacturing process. The material is delicate and can be prone to damage if mishandled. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the expertise of the watchmaker and the overall design and construction of the timepiece when evaluating porcelain as a dial finish option.

Phone Consulation: 15 Minutes

Phone Consulation: 15 Minutes

Whether you need help picking a FAE Watch movement type, or help designing your custom, hand-made watch, whether you have questions about your grandfather’s broken watch, or need help with ideas for an anniversary or graduation presents, we are just a phone call away. Even if you are considering a major watch purchase, and would like a different perspective on its relative value, don’t be afrai…

$19.95
Shop now
Posted on by

What Does a Pallet Fork Do?

A pallet fork is a crucial component in a mechanical watch’s escapement mechanism. The escapement is responsible for regulating the release of energy from the watch’s mainspring and ensuring the precise and controlled movement of the watch’s hands.

The pallet fork, along with the escape wheel, forms the core of the escapement system. The pallet fork engages with the teeth of the escape wheel, which is driven by the watch’s mainspring. As the escape wheel rotates, it pushes against the pallet fork, causing it to oscillate back and forth.

The pallet fork’s primary function is to control the release of energy from the mainspring in small, precise increments. It does this by engaging with the escape wheel’s teeth and allowing the wheel to rotate by a fixed amount before locking it in place momentarily.

Custom FAE Mechanical Watch - Made in USA

Custom FAE Mechanical Watch – Made in USA

For the pragmatic yet discerning watch owner, FAE offer the “Sapphire” edition of the Field Mechanical Watch which features all possible upgrades.

Original price was: $1,099.95.Current price is: $649.95.
Shop now

During each oscillation of the pallet fork, it interacts with the impulse jewel, receiving a brief impulse of energy that further drives its oscillation. This impulse, combined with the oscillation of the balance wheel and the action of the hairspring, creates the necessary timing mechanism that regulates the watch’s timekeeping accuracy.

The precise engagement and locking action of the pallet fork with the escape wheel ensure that the watch’s energy is released at a constant rate, controlling the rotation of the gear train and ultimately the movement of the watch’s hands.

In summary, the pallet fork in a mechanical watch’s escapement mechanism plays a critical role in regulating the release of energy and maintaining the timekeeping accuracy of the watch.

Phone Consulation: 15 Minutes

Phone Consulation: 15 Minutes

Whether you need help picking a FAE Watch movement type, or help designing your custom, hand-made watch, whether you have questions about your grandfather’s broken watch, or need help with ideas for an anniversary or graduation presents, we are just a phone call away. Even if you are considering a major watch purchase, and would like a different perspective on its relative value, don’t be afrai…

$19.95
Shop now
Posted on by

Is Titanium Softer than Stainless Steel?

Answer: It depends on the Heat Treatment.

Titanium is not softer than stainless steel. In fact, titanium is generally harder than stainless steel. The hardness of a material is measured on the Mohs scale, and stainless steel typically has a hardness ranging from 4 to 5 on this scale. On the other hand, titanium has a hardness of about 6 on the Mohs scale, making it harder than most stainless steel alloys. On a third hand, heat-treated steel can reach a hardness of 7.

There are different types and grades of stainless steel and titanium, so the hardness may vary depending on the specific alloy. However, in general, untreated (non-hrat-treated) titanium is considered to be a harder material than untreated stainless steel.

Heat Treatment Matters

Unhardened titanium is generally softer than hardened stainless steel. When we talk about hardness, we refer to a material’s ability to resist indentation or scratching. Stainless steel is often hardened through processes such as heat treatment or cold working to increase its hardness. Hardened stainless steel can have a higher hardness level compared to unhardened titanium.

Unhardened titanium, in its pure form, is relatively soft compared to hardened stainless steel. However, it’s important to note that there are different grades and alloys of titanium and stainless steel, each with varying hardness levels. So, the specific comparison would depend on the particular grades of titanium and stainless steel being compared. Nonetheless, in general, hardened stainless steel is likely to be harder than unhardened titanium.

Custom FAE Quartz Field Watch - Made in USA

Custom FAE Quartz Field Watch – Made in USA

With a stout, solid-stainless-steel case, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, time accuracy to within seconds per month, and up to 40 months of continuous battery life, your Custom FAE Quartz Field Watch will go anywhere you go and take any punishment you take, for as long as humanly possible.

$249.95
Shop now
Posted on by — 2 Comments

Is Stainless Steel the Best Metal for a Watch Case?

Stainless steel is one of the most popular and widely used materials for watch cases, and it offers several advantages that make it a preferred choice for many people. While “best” can vary depending on personal preferences and specific requirements, stainless steel has numerous qualities that contribute to its popularity in watchmaking:

1. Durability: Stainless steel is highly durable and resistant to scratches, impacts, and general wear and tear. It can withstand everyday use and maintain its appearance for a long time.

2. Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel is known for its excellent corrosion resistance, which helps prevent rust and tarnish on the watch case, even when exposed to moisture and environmental factors.

3. Aesthetic Appeal: Stainless steel has a classic and versatile look that appeals to a wide range of watch enthusiasts. It offers a clean, polished appearance that works well with different styles and occasions.

4. Affordability: Compared to some other materials used in watchmaking, stainless steel is relatively more affordable while still providing excellent durability and performance.

However, it’s important to note that there are other materials used for watch cases that have their own advantages and appeal. For example, materials like titanium, ceramic, tungsten, or even precious metals like gold and platinum offer different characteristics such as lighter weight, unique aesthetics, or enhanced luxury appeal.

The “best” metal for a watch case ultimately depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the specific qualities you prioritize.

Phone Consulation: 15 Minutes

Phone Consulation: 15 Minutes

Whether you need help picking a FAE Watch movement type, or help designing your custom, hand-made watch, whether you have questions about your grandfather’s broken watch, or need help with ideas for an anniversary or graduation presents, we are just a phone call away. Even if you are considering a major watch purchase, and would like a different perspective on its relative value, don’t be afrai…

$19.95
Shop now
Posted on by

What is the Hardest Metal?

The hardest metal is a matter of definition and can vary depending on the criteria used to measure hardness. However, tungsten carbide is often considered one of the hardest metals known to man.

Tungsten carbide is an extremely hard and dense compound made of tungsten and carbon atoms. It has a high melting point, excellent strength, and exceptional resistance to wear and abrasion.

Diamond is not considered a metal but is often referenced when discussing hardness. It is technically a form of carbon and is the hardest known material overall, surpassing the hardness of any metal.

However, in the context of metals specifically, tungsten carbide is typically regarded as one of the hardest.

Custom FAE Mechanical Watch - Made in USA

Custom FAE Mechanical Watch – Made in USA

For the pragmatic yet discerning watch owner, FAE offer the “Sapphire” edition of the Field Mechanical Watch which features all possible upgrades.

Original price was: $1,099.95.Current price is: $649.95.
Shop now
Posted on by

What are the Different Kinds of Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is a versatile and widely used material known for its corrosion resistance, strength, and aesthetic appeal. There are several different types, or grades, of stainless steel, each with its own composition and properties.

Here are some of the common types of stainless steel:

1. Austenitic Stainless Steel: Austenitic stainless steel is the most common type and accounts for a significant portion of stainless steel production. It is non-magnetic and known for its excellent corrosion resistance, high ductility, and good formability. The most widely used austenitic grades are:

– 304 (A2) Stainless Steel: This is the most common grade, suitable for a wide range of applications, including kitchen appliances, food processing equipment, and architectural components.

– 316 (A4) Stainless Steel: It contains higher levels of chromium and nickel, offering superior corrosion resistance, particularly in marine environments and applications involving exposure to chemicals or saltwater.

Custom FAE Mechanical Watch - Made in USA

Custom FAE Mechanical Watch – Made in USA

For the pragmatic yet discerning watch owner, FAE offer the “Sapphire” edition of the Field Mechanical Watch which features all possible upgrades.

Original price was: $1,099.95.Current price is: $649.95.
Shop now

2. Ferritic Stainless Steel: Ferritic stainless steel has a body-centered cubic crystal structure and is magnetic. It offers good corrosion resistance and is often used for applications where formability and welding are important. Common ferritic grades include:

– 430 Stainless Steel: This grade is widely used in automotive trim, kitchen appliances, and indoor architectural components.

– 444 Stainless Steel: It offers improved corrosion resistance compared to 430 stainless steel and is used in applications where resistance to chloride stress corrosion cracking is critical, such as hot water tanks and water heaters.

3. Martensitic Stainless Steel: Martensitic stainless steel is known for its high strength and hardness. It can be heat treated to further enhance its mechanical properties. While it has lower corrosion resistance compared to austenitic and ferritic stainless steels, it finds applications in cutlery, surgical instruments, and turbine blades. Common martensitic grades include:

– 410 Stainless Steel: It provides good corrosion resistance and can be hardened by heat treatment. It is often used in applications requiring high strength and moderate corrosion resistance.

– 420 Stainless Steel: This grade has higher carbon content, which gives it improved hardness and wear resistance. It is commonly used for cutlery, surgical instruments, and molds.

Custom FAE Quartz Field Watch - Made in USA

Custom FAE Quartz Field Watch – Made in USA

With a stout, solid-stainless-steel case, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, time accuracy to within seconds per month, and up to 40 months of continuous battery life, your Custom FAE Quartz Field Watch will go anywhere you go and take any punishment you take, for as long as humanly possible.

$249.95
Shop now

4. Duplex Stainless Steel: Duplex stainless steel combines the properties of both austenitic and ferritic stainless steels. It has excellent corrosion resistance and higher strength compared to austenitic stainless steel. Duplex stainless steel is commonly used in chemical processing plants, oil and gas industry, and marine applications.

– 2205 Stainless Steel: This is the most widely used duplex grade, known for its balanced combination of corrosion resistance and strength.

These are just a few examples of the different types of stainless steel. Within each grade, there can be further variations based on specific compositions and manufacturing processes.

The selection of stainless steel depends on the intended application, considering factors such as corrosion resistance, mechanical properties, fabrication requirements, and cost.

Posted on by — 1 Comment

How a Watch Escapement Works

A watch escapement is a crucial mechanism in mechanical watches that regulates the release of energy from the mainspring and controls the movement of the watch’s hands. It consists of several components working together to ensure precise timekeeping. Here’s a simplified explanation of how a watch escapement works:

1. Mainspring: The mainspring is a coiled spring that stores potential energy when wound. As the mainspring unwinds, it releases this stored energy to power the watch.

2. Balance Wheel: The balance wheel is a wheel with a weighted rim that oscillates back and forth, creating a periodic motion. It acts as the timekeeping element of the watch, and its oscillations are what allow the watch to measure time.

3. Balance Spring: The balance spring, also known as the hairspring, is a fine coiled spring attached to the balance wheel. It provides the restoring force that keeps the balance wheel oscillating back and forth at a consistent rate.

4. Escape Wheel: The escape wheel is a toothed wheel that interacts with the pallet fork to control the energy flow. It rotates in small increments, known as “ticks,” driven by the unwinding mainspring.

5. Pallet Fork: The pallet fork is a lever that engages with the escape wheel teeth. It has two small prongs, called pallet jewels, which alternately lock and unlock the escape wheel teeth, controlling the movement of the escape wheel.

The interaction of the escape wheel and the pallet fork is the key to the escapement’s operation:

– Locking: As the balance wheel swings, the escape wheel rotates, and one of its teeth comes in contact with the pallet fork. This locks the escape wheel momentarily, stopping its rotation.

– Unlocking: The balance wheel continues its oscillation, causing the pallet fork to release the locked tooth of the escape wheel. The release of the tooth transfers a small amount of energy to the balance wheel, keeping it oscillating.

– Impulse: When the escape wheel tooth unlocks, the energy stored in the mainspring is transferred to the balance wheel, causing it to swing in the opposite direction. This transfer of energy is known as the “impulse,” and it maintains the oscillation of the balance wheel.

Custom FAE Mechanical Watch - Made in USA

Custom FAE Mechanical Watch – Made in USA

For the pragmatic yet discerning watch owner, FAE offer the “Sapphire” edition of the Field Mechanical Watch which features all possible upgrades.

Original price was: $1,099.95.Current price is: $649.95.
Shop now

This process repeats with each swing of the balance wheel, creating a regular oscillation and precise timekeeping. The escapement effectively divides the unwinding of the mainspring into small, precise increments to ensure accurate timekeeping and control the speed of the watch’s movement.

It’s important to note that there are various types of escapements used in different watches, including the lever escapement, Swiss lever escapement, and co-axial escapement, among others. Each type has its own design and characteristics, but the fundamental principle of regulating energy flow remains similar across all escapements.

Posted on by

I Wear a Watch, but Do I Want a Mechanical Watch?

Deciding whether you would like a mechanical watch or not depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Here are some factors to consider when determining if a mechanical watch is right for you:

1. Appreciation of craftsmanship: Mechanical watches are often considered works of art due to the intricate mechanisms and meticulous craftsmanship involved in their production. If you have an appreciation for fine craftsmanship and enjoy the mechanical intricacies of timekeeping, a mechanical watch might be appealing to you.

2. Aesthetic appeal: Mechanical watches often have a classic and timeless appeal. They come in various designs, styles, and materials, allowing you to find one that matches your personal taste. If you prefer a traditional and elegant accessory, a mechanical watch can be a great choice.

3. Connection to tradition: Mechanical watches have a long history and represent a traditional approach to timekeeping. Some people enjoy owning a piece of this heritage and wearing a watch that is not solely reliant on technology and batteries.

4. Investment value: Certain mechanical watches can appreciate in value over time, especially those from prestigious brands or limited editions. If you have an interest in horology and see watches as potential investments, a mechanical watch might be worth considering.

Custom FAE Mechanical Watch - Made in USA

Custom FAE Mechanical Watch – Made in USA

For the pragmatic yet discerning watch owner, FAE offer the “Sapphire” edition of the Field Mechanical Watch which features all possible upgrades.

Original price was: $1,099.95.Current price is: $649.95.
Shop now

5. Maintenance and care: Mechanical watches require periodic servicing to ensure accurate timekeeping and longevity. They need to be wound regularly or worn consistently to keep them running. If you enjoy the ritual of maintaining and caring for a watch, including occasional visits to a watchmaker, a mechanical watch can provide a satisfying experience.

6. Accuracy and convenience: In terms of timekeeping precision, modern quartz watches are generally more accurate than mechanical watches. Quartz watches use electronic movements powered by batteries, which offer high precision and require less maintenance. If precise timekeeping and convenience are your priorities, a quartz watch might be a better choice.

Custom FAE Quartz Field Watch - Made in USA

Custom FAE Quartz Field Watch – Made in USA

With a stout, solid-stainless-steel case, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, time accuracy to within seconds per month, and up to 40 months of continuous battery life, your Custom FAE Quartz Field Watch will go anywhere you go and take any punishment you take, for as long as humanly possible.

$249.95
Shop now

Ultimately, the decision to wear a mechanical watch depends on your personal taste, lifestyle, and preferences. Some individuals find great joy in owning and wearing mechanical watches, appreciating the craftsmanship and traditions they represent. Others may prefer the accuracy and convenience of quartz watches or rely on other timekeeping devices such as smartphones. Consider these factors to determine if a mechanical watch aligns with your interests and requirements.