Automatic vs Quartz Watches: What Watch Buyers Need to Know Before Choosing

When shopping for a new timepiece, one of the most common questions is:
“Should I buy an automatic or quartz watch?”

If you're stepping into the world of watches or looking to upgrade your collection, understanding the core differences between these movements will help guide your decision—and ensure your next watch fits your lifestyle perfectly.

At La Touraine, we design watches that blend rugged elegance with timeless functionality. So whether you're drawn to the precision of a quartz movement or the art of automatic watchmaking, we’ve got the right piece for your journey.

🕰️ What is an Automatic Watch?

An automatic watch—also known as a self-winding mechanical watch—is powered by the movement of your wrist. As you wear it, a rotor inside the case spins to wind the mainspring and keep the watch ticking.

✅ Pros of Automatic Watches:

• Craftsmanship: A testament to traditional watchmaking with visible mechanical beauty.
• No battery required: Wound by movement, making it more eco-conscious and enduring.
• Smooth second hand: The continuous sweeping motion offers an elegant, refined feel.

🧭 Featured La Touraine Automatics:

• Subnautica – Our premier dive watch with 200m water resistance, sapphire crystal, and automatic precision built for deep exploration.
• Voyager GMT – A Swiss-inspired dual-timezone automatic that’s perfect for travelers navigating multiple time zones.

⚡ What is a Quartz Watch?

A quartz watch runs on battery power and uses a quartz crystal oscillator to regulate time with remarkable precision. The ticking second hand moves in distinct intervals, unlike the sweeping motion of automatics.

✅ Pros of Quartz Watches:

• Highly accurate: Less than a second of drift per day.
• Minimal maintenance: Battery-powered and worry-free.
• Slim and durable: Typically lighter and better suited for everyday use.

🏃‍♂️ Featured La Touraine Quartz Models:

• Maritimer – Our latest dive-inspired quartz watch, engineered for precision and durability with 100m water resistance.
• Legacy – A classic chronograph that pairs rugged build quality with dress-ready aesthetics.
• Commodore GMT – A practical travel companion featuring a GMT hand and reliable quartz accuracy.

⚙️ Wait—What About Mechanical Watches?

Good question. Not all mechanical watches are automatic. Some—like our Heritage Racer—feature a manual-wind movement, meaning you wind the crown periodically to power it.

This type of watch is often favored by purists who enjoy the ritual of winding and the tactile connection to classic mechanics.

🥇 Which Watch Movement is Right for You?

Choose an Automatic Watch if:

• You appreciate traditional horology.
• You want a watch that powers itself through motion.
• You enjoy the mechanical artistry of your timepiece.

Choose a Quartz Watch if:

• You prefer a low-maintenance, set-it-and-forget-it option.
• You need ultra-accurate timekeeping.
• You want something lightweight and travel-ready.

🧭 Why Choose La Touraine?

At La Touraine, we craft watches that offer:

• Premium Materials – Including sapphire crystals, 316L stainless steel, and FKM rubber straps.
• Uncompromising Design – Bold yet refined, built for adventure or elegance.
• Value Without Compromise – Luxury features without luxury pricing.

Whether you're starting your first collection or adding to a seasoned one, we’ve got a timepiece for every journey.

🛒 Explore Our Collection

Ready to make your choice? Browse our full collection of watches and find the timepiece that fits your life.