The Timepiece Journal

Rolex uses 904L. Everyone else uses 316L. But what does that actually mean — and does it matter? A clear, honest comparison of the two most important stainless steels in watchmaking.

The tourbillon is either the pinnacle of watchmaking genius or an expensive solution to a problem that no longer exists. We examine both sides of the most debated complication in horology.

Flip a mechanical watch over and you'll see something extraordinary. This beginner's guide explains every key component of a watch movement — mainspring, gear train, escapement, balance wheel and more — in plain language.