The watch case is the essential part of the watch. Whether you are customizing your watch brand or buying a watch, it is essential to know some basic watch knowledge.
The watch case and the case back are like a house; the case is the body of the house, the back cover is the floor of the house, and the glass is the windows of the house. Together they act as a shelter from the wind and rain.
The wristwatch case and backs are the protective coverings of the watch’s movement. They can be made out of various materials, including plastic and metal. While some people choose to leave the case off their watches altogether, others choose to change them based on their style.
This blog post will discuss everything you need to know about wristwatch cases!
What Is A Watch Case and Case Back?
When we talk about the case, we basically ignore the back cover because it is hidden in the back of the watch.
A watch case is a crucial component of a watch, and without a watch case, it is not a watch.
The watch case back is the back of the watch; It is a protective enclosure that houses the watch’s movement, dial, and other internal components. The case back is the removable cover of the watch case that provides access to the internals.
Most commonly, you will find the model number and serial number engraved on a watch case back. Many watchmakers (1) will also include other technical specifications, such as the water resistance rating and movement type.
It is essential to know what is engraved on your watch case back?
This information is to identify the model of your watch and determine its age.
The Different Types Of Watch Case and backs？
Each type has unique features and benefits, from the famous round cases to the less common irregular shape cases. Here’s a look at some of the most common watch types of watch case backs.
Cases are divided by structure: single shell, one case and one bezel ring, multi-piece combination case.
Cases are divided by shape: round, square, tonneau, goose egg, shaped cases …….
Cases are divided by material: plastic case, alloy case, copper case, steel case, titanium case, tungsten steel case, ceramic case …….
There are a few different types of them that you might encounter:
Case Shapes
Watch cases follow up the cases’ shape. Cases are round, and case back shapes are mostly round.
Redondo: The most common watch case and back, round cases come in various diameters.
Square: Square watch case backs are less common than round cases, but they have become more prevalent.
Rectangular: Rectangular cases are typically found in dress watches. They are becoming less popular in favor of round and square cases.
Tonneau: Tonneau-shaped (2) cases are not very common, but they offer a unique look that some people prefer.
Oval: Oval cases are also not very common, but they have a sleek and elegant appearance.
Irregular shape: Some watches come in irregular shapes, such as triangular or hexagonal cases.
Transparent Back: Transparent backs are usually used in tourbillon watches. so you can see the skeleton of the mechanical structure
Case Materials
The case and back can be made from various materials, including stainless steel, gold, titanium, wood, and plastic. The most common material is stainless steel, which is strong and corrosion-resistant.
1）Plastic watch: plastic one-time molded watch case. Larger mold cost, less subsequent processing, if mass production, then the cost is relatively low. Generally assembled with cheap electronic movement. Most of the market is a relatively low grade of gift watches.
(2) alloy shell: the general use of zinc alloy material casting. Light material, easy processing, the surface of the workpiece needs to be plated. Short production cycle, high output, low price. Water resistance, wear resistance and corrosion resistance are poor. It is a low-grade watch.
3）Copper case: made of copper material and processed by beer pressing or casting. Copper case has the advantages of easy processing, beautiful appearance, better waterproof performance, surface wear resistance and corrosion resistance. Moderate price is its advantage. The surface of the workpiece needs to be plated. It belongs to the mid-range category of watches.
(4) Steel case: 304 or 316L steel is used and processed by beer pressing or casting. The material of steel is stable, with good waterproof performance, wear-resistant surface and strong corrosion resistance. There are also advantages such as anti-rust, anti-magnetic, high strength and environmental protection (not easy to occur skin allergy when wearing). But the processing is more complicated, the production is less and the price is high. It is generally used for high-grade quartz watches and mechanical watches. It is a high-grade watch. It is also the part we need to focus on understanding.
5）Tungsten steel, ceramic: processing is difficult, not easy to wear, special materials. Generally used in higher-grade watches.
Some watchmakers offer a limited edition version of their watches with a gold case back. Gold is a corrosion-resistant (3) precious metal and has a luxurious appearance.
Titanium or Meteorite(4) is another solid and corrosion-resistant material often used in watches. It is lighter than stainless steel and has a modern look. But also expensive.
Plastic is the least expensive option, but it is not as strong as other materials. It can be scratched or damaged easily. plastic cases and case back are used in the smartwatches or kids watches
The Different Colors Of The Watches Case and backs？
Do you know the different colors of the watch’s case and backs?
Those colors are all painted according to the customer’s requirements.
Here are some of the most popular colors!
Normal colors are:
- Silver color/ stainless steel color
- Black
- Ouro
- Rose gold
- Blue
- Champagne
- Gun grey
- Khaki
The Different Brushes On Watches Cases？
Hey everyone! I wondered if anyone could help me out with a question I had. I’ve noticed that many watches have different brushes on them, usually around the case.
Does anyone know what the different brushes are? Are they just for decoration, or do they serve a purpose?
My answers below, Different brushes are;
All-Glossy:
This is the most common type of case and back, and it has a high-gloss finish.
Full Sandblasting:
Full sandblasting was created by blasting the case with sand.
Between Stain:
This type of brush has a finish between a high-gloss and full sandblasting. It has a smooth finish with some texture.
Full Stain:
This type of artwork has a finish achieved by staining the case with a color. It has a smooth finish.
Vertical brush:
It is a brushed finish that is applied vertically.
Cross Brush:
This type of brush is a brushed finish applied in a crosshatch pattern.
Round Sand:
Round sand is brushed with a circular pattern around the cases.
How To Choose The Right Watch Case for your brand?
The case is just as important as the band for watches. A good case can accentuate your style and make you stand out from the crowd. So, how do you choose the right one for you? When shopping for a new watch, it is essential to select the correct case style that suits your needs.
Here are a few tips to help you choose:
- Choose a round or square case if you prefer a classic look.
- Choose a rectangular, tonneau, oval, or irregular case if you want a more modern look.
- Choose a Wood or Wood & Stainless case watch, If you prefer a Natural and original design.
- If you are looking for a durable and heavier watch, choose a case made from stainless steel or titanium.
- If you are looking for a luxurious watch, then choose a case made from gold or platinum.
- If you are looking for an inexpensive watch, choose a case made from plastic or Aluminum.
- If you are looking for a unique watch, choose a case made from an unusual material or shape.
- If you are not sure what type of case you want, consult with a watch expert to help you make the right decision.
The different wristwatch case backs and how they are used to identify watches. The different materials that wristwatch case backs are made from and the different colors they can come in. The different brushes used on watches cases and what they look like.
Now that you know everything about wristwatch cases and backs, This idea will add different feelings to your watch brand.
The Best Way To Store Your Watches When They’re Not In Use:
Like most people, you have a few watches that you wear regularly. But what do you do with the ones you don’t wear all the time?
Here are a few ideas for storing your watches when they’re not in use.
- If you have many watches, invest in a watch box to store them in. This will protect them from scratches and dust. Especially for mechanical & expensive watches, This box comes in hundreds of dollars.
- When you are not wearing your watch, store it in a dry place away from direct sunlight or heat. also magnets
- If you have a leather strap watch, store it in a cool, dry place to prevent the strap from drying out and cracking.
- If you have a metal strap watch, be sure to store it in a place where it will not contact other metals, which can cause corrosion.
Watches are a great way to accessorize your look, and with so many different styles and options available, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. By understanding the different types of case backs and how they are used to identify watches, you can make a more informed decision when shopping for your next watch.
How To Clean A Watch Case?
If your watch case back is dirty or stained, you can clean it with a soft cloth and mild soap. Be sure to rinse the case back thoroughly before drying it off.
You can also use a toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas. Just be sure to avoid using any harsh chemicals or solvents, which can damage the finish on the case back.
Keeping your watch’s case clean will help keep your watch looking its best.
Conclusão
So there you have it – everything you need to know about the watch case! Whether you’re looking to buy a new watch or just curious about the different types of cases and colors available, we hope this article has been helpful. And don’t forget, if you ever have any questions about watches or anything else related, feel free to reach out to us anytime.
We always love hearing from our readers!
References:
- watchmakers (Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_watchmakers)
- Tonneau-shaped (Retrieved from https://www.hautetime.com/barreling-forward-with-tonneau-shaped-watches/94152/)
- corrosion-resistant (Retrieved from https://www.metaltek.com/blog/material-applications-corrosion-resistance/#:~:text=Corrosion%20resistance%20is%20the%20ability,reactions%20within%20the%20specific%20environment.)
- Meteorite（Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meteorite#:~:text=A%20meteorite%20is%20a%20solid,of%20a%20planet%20or%20moon.）
