How The Materials Inside Your Watch Earn High-Performance Rankings

A mechanical watch is filled with hundreds of tiny gears, teeth, ball bearings and other parts that work together harmoniously to tick off the seconds, minutes, hours and other functions a watch may hold. Typically, these mechanical movements, like the engine of a fine car, are lubricated to keep everything running smoothly.

The constant wear and tear of metal against metal, however, often causes friction, wears down the parts and eventually, causes the oil to dry out. This is much of the reason servicing of a fine luxury watch is typically recommended every several years (just as a car needs to be serviced).

With the advent of new materials, though, certain watch brands have eliminated much of the friction — and the wear and tear — meaning a watch can go significantly (years) longer without needing that lubrication or servicing. Such materials include silicium and ceramic ball bearings.

There are several pioneers in the industry that have led the way when it comes to developing and using new movement materials. Among them are Ulysse Nardin and Richard Mille. In fact, both of these brands have been using high-tech materials for movement parts for years – ensuring longer life for their calibers. Both also continue to develop new realms and to collect new patents for their inventions.

We invite you in any time to get a hands-on experience with some of these and other high-performance brands.