What is Kinetic Clock? Kinetic Clock Guide
Clock systems that combine mechanical and quartz clock mechanisms are called kinetic clocks. In a more technical way, we can answer the question, “What is a kinetic clock?” ‘”A watch that uses a self-winding rotor mechanism to generate electricity with a piezoelectric quartz crystal.” In other words, the mechanism that collects energy with the rotor, as in automatic watches, works by using batteries instead of a mainspring. For this reason, kinetic clock systems can be explained as automatic clocks that work with “rechargeable batteries.”
Kinetic watch models were introduced in 1986. Kinetic watches were introduced to the market in 1988. The products, which were sold for the first time in January 1988 in Germany, have changed over time to become what they are today.
How Does the Kinetic Clock Work?
The working principle of kinetic clocks is actually very simple. The rotating pendulum is connected to the large gear, and this connection is made by means of a small pinion. When the user moves, the pinion starts to rotate rapidly. In fact, the speed level reaches up to 100,000 rpm. Meanwhile, the electric generator in the kinetic clock is on. The energy stored in the capacitor is processed, and the clock works just like a battery clock. In short, you can answer the question of how the kinetic clock works by saying “with the natural energy of motion.” In this way, models of kinetic watches that are good for the environment take the best parts of both mechanical and quartz watches.
How to Set Kinetic Clock?
Intelligently designed kinetic wristwatches are charged before being adjusted. Also, charging is pretty easy. Users shake the watch slightly in both directions in a small arc for only two to three minutes. In this way, weight is released from the clock mechanism. You can also distinguish this oscillation with a faint sound. Then the second hand starts to move slowly. With the movement, the kinetic wristwatch has stored enough power to last you for a few hours and is ready to adjust.
To unlock the crown of kinetic energy watches, you must turn the crown counterclockwise. Then you can gently pull the crown to set the time and date. With the first pull, you must rotate the crown counterclockwise until you reach the previous day’s date. Then, when the second hand points to 12, you should move the crown to the second pull stage. Now you have to turn it counterclockwise until you get the desired date. Then it’s time to set the hour and minute hands. For this, you have to push the crown to the normal position. When the adjustment is complete, turn the crown clockwise to its normal position to lock it.
What are the Kinetic Clock Features?
Kinetic watch features vary according to the brand and technical details of the products. Even though the products have different indicators, materials, case materials, and aesthetic features, these are their main technical qualities:
- Kinetic clocks often carry a double helix.
- It is the product of innovative technology combining quartz and automatic mechanisms.
- It is environmentally friendly as it does not work with conventional batteries.
- It has a perpetual calendar, chronograph, and GMT functions.
- The energy reserve of the watches can be seen from the power indicators on them moment by moment.
- Kinetic watch models with auto relay automatically hibernate when not used for a long time, and the power protection function is activated. Thus, it can work for up to four years. On the other hand, thanks to this function, the hands move to the correct position when the watch is moved.
- The vast majority of kinetic watches support innovative technology with futuristic designs. This gives users an exclusive style.
- Some of the kinetic energy watch models have diving supports. Complete with a waterproof case, the watches also have a compass bezel.
- Some kinetic watches with multiple displays have an hour, minute, second, tenth of a second, and date display. Some models also have a stopwatch attachment. In this way, all information about time is kept under control.
Are Kinetic Clocks Durable?
Kinetic energy watches are as durable as watches with mechanical or quartz movements. Capacitor energy stores in the system can be charged and discharged thousands of times. Long-lasting kinetic watches are quite robust. Also, the mechanism is not the only thing that affects how long a watch will last. The watch’s case materials, originality, and dial features are also criteria for durability. In light of all this information, you should look at the mechanical features and case details of the products when buying a kinetic men’s wristwatch or choosing between different women’s watch models.
How to Maintain Kinetic Watches?
Although kinetic watches are often referred to as “battery-free watches,” they may actually require minor maintenance over the years, depending on usage. Kinetic watches are sent for maintenance on average every 7 years. Since the battery in a kinetic watch lasts a long time, it doesn’t need to be replaced. However, during maintenance, the capacitor that lets the watch store energy is replaced. Also, the kinetic watch battery is different from conventional batteries. During maintenance, a conventional watch battery should never be replaced with a kinetic battery. You should take your kinetic-powered watch into service at authorized services and not try to do it yourself. You can see that kinetic watches retain their first-day performance for years if you use regular maintenance and cleaning.
How to Clean a Kinetic Wristwatch?
Whatever the clockwork is, it needs a simple cleaning after being removed every day. After removing the kinetic watches, you can wipe them with a dry, soft cloth. So, it’s easy to get rid of any moisture, sweat, or dust that gets on the clock during the day. When you repeat this process every day, you can prevent the formation of dirt layers on the watch.
If your watch is metal or silicone, you should clean it once a month with a slightly damp, soapy cloth and a soft toothbrush. However, the cloth should never be wet, only damp. If your watch has a leather strap, you can wipe it with leather polish instead of this process. You should also remember to dry your kinetic watch thoroughly after cleaning.
How to Store Kinetic Wristwatch?
Kinetic watch models should stay away from dust and moisture. For this reason, you should store the watches in their original boxes in a dry place. In this way, you can protect the watch to a large extent from damage caused by external factors. You should also be careful when placing the watch in the box. You should not put the watch face down, and you should not keep any other objects in the box. In addition, wrapping watches in plastic wrap is also harmful. The nylon protectors used during shipping, in particular, can cause the watch to retain moisture over time, which can lead to corrosion.
Difference Between Kinetic Wristwatch and Automatic Wristwatch
The difference between a kinetic wristwatch and an automatic wristwatch is the working system. In automatic watches, the energy is collected, stored, and processed by the rotor. In kinetic wristwatches, the mainspring takes the place of the mainspring in automatic movements. Kinetic watches, as their name suggests, charge with movement. Movement energy stored in the battery powers the clock.
Kinetic Watch Models and Prices
Almost all of the kinetic watch models promise different features. Details such as the number of gauges, case material, and strap material have an impact on kinetic watch prices. In addition, determinants such as the exchange rate cause watch prices to change over time, as most watches come from abroad. In addition, seasonal campaigns and discounts differentiate kinetic watch prices.
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