Despite not being the most practical for daily use, chronographs are a hit among watch collectors. Most of them are also equipped with tachymeter scales, which can calculate speed or distance.
While most watch enthusiasts agree that it's a pretty cool feature, few actually use the tachymeter scales on their chronograph timepieces. But if you're into car racing, these unique watches may be right up your alley.
For luxury watch enthusiasts, where watch culture is all about opulence and one-of-a-kind pieces, tachymeter watches are a household name.
Here's everything you need to know about tachymeter watches in the global luxury market.
What is a Tachymeter?
Think of a watch bezel function with intricate markings, not for hours and minutes, but for units, kilometres, or miles per hour. It's designed to convert elapsed time into speed over a fixed distance.
The tachymeter, invented in 1913, was primarily used in motorsports. It allows drivers and audiences to measure speed over a set distance so they can track performance on the racetrack.
How a tachymeter works is simple in concept but requires an understanding of all the calculations that go into it. Its workings are based on the principle that speed equals distance divided by time. By measuring the seconds it takes to travel a distance, the tachymeter can also calculate the speed.
Tachymeter 101
For a first-timer, the workings of a tachymeter can seem pretty complex. You may have questions like, how does a tachymeter work? How does it measure speed? Can I use it for calculations other than speed?
The simple answer is yes. Here's your guide to mastering the tachymeter and keeping your watch ticking for years to come:
Understanding the Scale
Of course, the first step is understanding the tachymeter scale. It may look similar to a traditional bezel, but a closer look will tell you otherwise.
The markings on your tachymeter watch's bezel aren't hours and minutes. Instead, they range from 60 to 500, representing units, kilometres, or miles per hour. This conversion tool requires data to turn it into information.
Tachymeter watches are only fitted on chronograph watches, which feature a hand that you can start or stop to make a specific measurement. You'll need to align this hand with a specific point on the tachymeter scale. This will allow you to make quick calculations using simple speed or distance formulas.
Speed Measurement
If you're wondering how to measure speed on a tachymeter watch, start the stopwatch at a known starting point. When it reaches another marker, look at where the second hand is on the scale to figure out your speed between the two points.
On a typical tachymeter, the scale converts the seconds it takes for a specific event to happen into how many times it would occur within an hour. This type of tachymeter relies on a simple formula:
T (number on the scale) = 3600 (seconds in an hour) / t (seconds it takes for the event to happen)
For example, if it takes 35 seconds to travel a mile, the average speed would be 103 miles/hour. So, on the watch, 35 seconds gives you a scale value of 103. It works the same for kilometres.
Advanced Techniques
Measuring speed with a watch isn't the only thing you can do with a tachymeter. Other uses include:
- Measuring Distance: With some practice, you can also measure distance with a tachymeter. It's pretty simple – start the chronograph when you begin moving at a constant speed. Stop it when the second hand reaches a specific speed on the bezel.
The elapsed time multiplied by your speed is the approximate distance travelled.
- Heart Rate: Start chronograph and start counting the pulses. Once you have counted a specific number of pulses, stop the chronograph. Record the value of the chronograph hand - this is the estimated pulse rate/minute.
Tachymeter Watches: Beyond the Racetrack
While the innovation of tachymeters was initially dedicated to motorsports, it found its way beyond the racetracks, especially amongst luxury watch enthusiasts. There are a few reasons why this timepiece is so beloved.
- Aesthetics: The tachymeter scale is only included in some high-end watches, and their sportier and more dynamic look gives tachymeter watches great aesthetics.
- Versatility: There are no hard-and-fast rules about a tachymeter watch – you don't have to be a sportsperson to wear one. You can easily find these timepieces in dressier styles. Whether you're looking for a piece that works well in a boardroom environment or something more suitable for an adventurous weekend, the tachymeter watch has you covered.
- Precision: Let's not forget the precision of these watches. Beyond just amping up the chicness of your look, these practical watches are known for their professional timing and accurate measurement.
- Heritage: As we mentioned, the tachymeter was initially associated with motorsport. Owning such a watch connects one to a legacy of speed and competition, letting the world know that you have a special appreciation for heritage and culture.
Popular Tachymeter Watches
Some Tachymeter models are particularly popular due to their brand heritage, design appeal, and performance. Here are three of the top Tachymeters in history.
Rolex Platinum Daytona
The Rolex Daytona is one of the most prestigious and sought-after watches for collectors and aficionados alike. This luxury timepiece is all about elegance and craftsmanship. Crafted from solid platinum, its materials are the epitome of durability and also contribute to its appeal.
One of its most distinctive features is the ice-blue dial, tying the timepiece together with the sophistication that Rolex watches are known for. It also features luminescent markers and hands that glow in the dark so you can measure speeds even in low-light conditions.
What we really love about the Daytona is its chronograph function. It allows users to measure elapsed time without compromising the precision. Plus, the subdials are located at the 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions for added functionality.
Most importantly, the tachymeter stands out against the cool-toned Rolex Platinum Daytona bezel. Beyond being robust and accurate, the exclusive Rolex also features a matching platinum bracelet as the perfect statement of luxury.
Patek Philippe - 5270J
The Patek Philippe - 5270J flawlessly combines class, looks, and ultimate craftsmanship. It also boasts yellow gold in the dial and case, which gives 5270J a high-end look while making the overall design robust and durable.
The alligator leather strap with a square scale makes this watch more desirable. Apart from looking great, the 5270J has all the modern and classic features like a perpetual calendar, day, month, leap year, and day/night display in apertures and a tachymeter scale on the dial.
Demystifying Tachymeter Prices
While tachymeter watches are typically sold as luxury investments, it's hard to pinpoint their exact tachymeter price range. But fear not! Here's a breakdown of factors influencing the average tachymeter watch price:
Brand Prestige: Popular watch brands like Rolex, Omega, or Breitling are usually on the higher end of the spectrum when it comes to their prices. Of course, the prices for tachymeter watches are no exception.
In fact, these watches are even costlier than the average automatic watch due to their heritage and craftsmanship.
Materials & Movement: Gold, platinum, titanium, or ceramic watches will always be on the pricier side, while stainless steel models can be more budget-friendly. Plus, complex mechanical movements on a chronograph watch tend to be pricier than basic quartz movements.
Features & Complexity: Some tachymeters offer additional features like GMT functions, moon phases, or intricate complications, driving up the price tag. Simpler designs with sole timekeeping and elapsed time measurement are usually more affordable.
Limited Editions & Rarity: Exclusive collaborations and limited production runs can dramatically increase the price of a tachymeter watch, especially if they're collector's items.
Retailer & Market Forces: Authorized dealers often have fixed prices, while online retailers might offer discounts on pre-owned options. Local market trends and taxes can also influence the final price you pay.
Beyond the Price Tag: Remember, buying a tachymeter watch shouldn't solely be about the price. Consider your intended use, personal style, budget, and brand preferences to find the perfect balance of value and functionality.
Tips for Savvy Buyers
Tachymeter watches may be more popular in the luxury market, but that doesn't mean you have to invest thousands of dollars to get one. Here are a few tips to keep in mind if you're buying a tachymeter timepiece on a budget.
- Set a realistic budget and focus on features that are more important to you. Extras like GMT and moon phases can be set aside for later investments.
- Research different brands and compare prices from authorised retailers. Apart from the Breitling tachymeter watch, you can find tons of other exciting options in the market, including the Swatch tachymeter and Tissot Tachymeter.
- Consider pre-owned or vintage options for classic tachymeter styles.
- Don't be afraid to negotiate on second-hand websites, especially for less popular models.
Remember, the best watch isn't always the most expensive one. Choose one that speaks to your individual style and needs.
A Budget Tachymeter Watch
The TW Steel Canteen CS121 has a masculine energy you can't go wrong with. But this watch is more than just good looks and affordability. Its functionality is truly impressive, especially the tachymeter scale.
The two other features that stand out the most are its style and durability. The robust stainless steel case has a matte finish, which gives it a sporty look – perfect for athletes and race car drivers.
What really caught our eye was the sleek TW steel watch tachymeter that does its job without disrupting the timepiece's aesthetics.
Final Word
Owning a watch with a tachymeter is about its functionality and the statement it conveys. Wear it confidently, knowing it symbolises your appreciation for precision, style, and the exhilarating rush of speed.
