An Expression Of Time

An in-house, or "manufaktur", movement is a watch mechanism that is designed, manufactured, and assembled entirely by the watch brand itself. This contrasts with using pre-made movements from third-party suppliers. Creating an in-house movement like our Caliber 7 requires immense investment in research, development, and skilled craftsmanship. It allows us complete control over the quality, performance, and unique features of our timepieces, ensuring every Aethel watch is a true and exclusive expression of our brand's vision.

Sapphire crystal is the standard for all high-end timepieces, and for good reason. It is a synthetically grown crystal that is almost identical to natural sapphire. On the Mohs scale of hardness, it scores a 9 out of 10, second only to diamond. This makes it virtually scratch-proof in everyday use, ensuring that the dial of your watch remains clear and unblemished for decades. All our crystals receive multiple layers of anti-reflective coating on both sides to minimize glare and maximize legibility.

Water resistance is often a point of confusion. A rating of "50 meters" does not mean you can dive 50 meters deep. It indicates the watch can withstand static pressure equivalent to that depth. For practical purposes: 50m is suitable for splashes and brief immersion, 100m is suitable for swimming and snorkeling, and 200m+ is required for scuba diving. Every Aethel timepiece is tested to meet or exceed its stated rating, thanks to our robust case construction and screw-down crowns.

A chronometer is a particularly precise watch. To earn this title, its movement must be tested and certified by an official neutral body, the most famous of which is the COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres). Over 15 days, the movement is tested in different positions and at different temperatures. It must maintain an accuracy of -4 to +6 seconds per day. Many of our Caliber 7 movements undergo this rigorous testing to guarantee superior timekeeping performance.

The dial is the face of the watch, and its finish is a mark of quality. We employ a range of traditional techniques. A "sunray" finish creates dynamic light reflections from the center outwards. A "guilloché" pattern involves engraving intricate, repetitive patterns onto the dial with a lathe. Our aventurine "Eclipse" dials are made from glass infused with mineral crystals to create a unique starry-night effect. Each technique requires a steady hand and an artist's eye.

In horology, a "complication" is any function on a watch that does more than simply tell the hours, minutes, and seconds. This can range from a simple date window to highly complex mechanisms. Common complications include the chronograph (a stopwatch function), a GMT hand (to track a second time zone), a moonphase display, and a perpetual calendar (which accounts for leap years). Complications add functionality and are a showcase of the watchmaker's skill.