CORNAVIN GLOSSARY

This page was created to help you learn more about Cornavin watches and the processes of Swiss watchmaking. We explore the different materials used on our watches, the processes in place to ensure our high quality standards and more facts about the watch industry.

We will answer questions like; What is a chronograph, how often should I service my automatic Cornavin watch, and many more. 

What is a Complication on a watch?

A chronograph is an additional complication to a watch. What do we mean by complication? Any function that a watch has, other than displaying the time in hours, minutes and seconds is considered a complication. Therefore even a date disc on a watch is considered a complication. Some of the most common complications on watches are chronograph functions, dual time zones, tourbillon and moonphase. 

What is a Chronograph?

The chronograph function is, after date dsiplays, the most common complication found in watches. Chronographs have a built in stopwatch function in the movement. It usually allows you to measure seconds, minutes and hours which are then dsiplayed on the so-called sub-dials on the face of your watch. Chronographs are operated with the pushers on the side of the watch case. Some of Cornavin's most popular chronographs are found in the Downtown Sport and Big Date collections.

What is Sapphire crystal?

Sapphire crystal is the second hardest element after diamonds. It is therefore extremely scratch-resistant and the ideal material used to protect the face of your watch. All Cornavin watches are equipped with sapphire crystal.

What is an exhibition caseback?

You will often see an exhibition caseback on automatic watches. The Downtown Skeleton and Downtown Open Heart collections by Cornavin have this type of caseback made of sapphire crystal. It allows you to view the automatic movement of your watch from the back.

What does ATM mean?

ATM stands for atmosphere. It is, together with bar, the measurement used by the watch industry to measure how much pressure a watch can withstand - not the depth in which a watch can be worn. All Cornavin watches are water resistant to various grades, from 5 ATM (50 meters) to 10 ATM (100 meters).

What is 316L stainless steel?

All Cornavin watches are made from 316L stainless steel. It is a very corrosion-resistant material which makes it ideal for watch cases and bracelets.