Chronometer, Chronograph or Cosmograph?
What is the difference between a chronometer, chronograph and a cosmagraph? The three phrases are easily confused, even though they have completely different meanings. But each is linked to Rolex watches and therein lies the confusion.
Chronometer is a name that is given to a watch with the highest in precision standards, such as a new Rolex Datejust. Watches with chronometer certification have passed the rigorous testing of the Swiss Official Chronometer Control. This testing consists of 15 days of performance tests under various conditions like exposure to varying temperatures, positions, and water levels.
Only watches with automatic or mechanical movements are eligible for chronometer certification. Rolex was the first watch manufacturer to earn the coveted chronometer certification. They maintain it today through the precision of quality assurance that goes into every new Rolex Datejust before it leaves the manufacturing floor.
In contrast to a chronometer, a chronograph is a watch that has a stopwatch capability. Its counter can measure elapsed time in seconds, minutes, or hours. The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is one of the most popular examples of a chronograph.
Cosmograph on the other hand is actually part of the model name of a particular Rolex as mentioned above. The myth linked to the Cosmograph owes much to terminology. The reference to descriptive astronomy (cosmography) – the very essence of time measurement – is enough to grasp the ambition encapsulated within this prestigious model. It is certainly one of Rolex Watch Companies most sought after watches.
