watchcases
Shells for timepieces
Watchcases are the outer housings that protect the internal mechanisms of watches.
The case holds the dial, crystal, and movement, shielding them from dust, moisture, and impact.
Watchcases come in various materials—gold, silver, steel, titanium—and styles, from slim dress watches to rugged diving cases.
Collectors sometimes value antique watchcases for their craftsmanship apart from the movements they once held.
Timepiece specialist
- goldsmithPrecious metal artisan
- silversmithMaker of silver objects
- engravingCarving into hard surfaces
- hingeMovable connecting joint
bezel · crystal · caseback · lug · crown · stamping · polishing · hallmark
Element seventy-nine
- silverLustrous white precious metal
- platinumDense precious silvery metal
- stainless steelRust-proof iron alloy
- titaniumElement twenty-two
brass · nickel · copper · palladium · rhodium · vermeil · plating · alloy
Curved like circle
- squareRhombus with right angles
- tonneauVehicle cargo cover
- cushionStuffed fabric for comfort
- rectangularFour right angles
oval · octagonal · tank · asymmetrical · slim · dress · diver · pilot
Impervious to moisture
- dustproofResistant to fine particles
- shock-resistantAble to endure impacts
- gasketMechanical leak preventer
- sealAuthentication stamp or mark
pressure · O-ring · hermetic · moisture · corrosion · scratch-resistant · sapphire crystal · rubber seal
Old valued collectible
- vintageQuality from past eras
- wristwatchPortable timekeeping accessory
- patinaSurface film from aging
- provenanceRecord of ownership
restoration · authentication · hallmark · serial number · rarity · condition · estate · auction
horologist
Timepiece specialist
- goldsmithPrecious metal artisan
- silversmithMaker of silver objects
- engravingCarving into hard surfaces
hinge · bezel · crystal · caseback · lug · crown · stamping · polishing · hallmark · tooling
gold
Element seventy-nine
- silverLustrous white precious metal
- platinumDense precious silvery metal
- stainless steelRust-proof iron alloy
titanium · brass · nickel · copper · palladium · rhodium · vermeil · plating · alloy · precious metal
round
Curved like circle
rectangular · oval · octagonal · tank · asymmetrical · slim · dress · diver · pilot · sport
waterproof
Impervious to moisture
- dustproofResistant to fine particles
- shock-resistantAble to endure impacts
- gasketMechanical leak preventer
seal · pressure · O-ring · hermetic · moisture · corrosion · scratch-resistant · sapphire crystal · rubber seal · submersible
antique
Old valued collectible
- vintageQuality from past eras
- wristwatchPortable timekeeping accessory
- patinaSurface film from aging
provenance · restoration · authentication · hallmark · serial number · rarity · condition · estate · auction · appraisal
watchcaseswatch straps
Wrist-securing timepiece fasteners
bracelets · wristbands · watch dials · buckles · watch faces
watchcasesmovements
Changes in position
mechanisms · calibers · escapements · mainsprings · dials