How do you use a Chronograph Watch?

A chronograph watch is a valuable tool that can help you track time accurately, especially when measuring elapsed time. It is commonly used by athletes, pilots, and professionals who require precise timing. In this blog, we will discuss how to use a chronograph watch effectively.

Before we begin, it is essential to understand the three main components of a chronograph watch:

1. The main timekeeping function: This is the regular watch function that displays the date, hours, minutes, and seconds.
2. The stopwatch function: This is the chronograph function that measures elapsed time in seconds and minutes.
3. The subdials: These are smaller dials on the watch face that display the stopwatch function's measurements.

The Chronograph model featured in this article is the Rotary Sport Chronograph - GB05450/59.

Now that we understand the basic components of a chronograph watch let's dive into how to use it:

Step 1: Start the chronograph

To start the chronograph, locate the pusher on the side of the watch and press it. The second hand of the watch will begin to move, indicating that the chronograph is running.

Step 2: Measure elapsed time

To measure elapsed time, use the pusher located at the top of the watch to start and stop the stopwatch function. When you press the pusher, the stopwatch will start measuring time, and when you press it again, it will stop. To reset the stopwatch, press the pusher located at the bottom of the watch.

Step 3: Use the subdials

The subdials on the watch face are used to display the stopwatch function's measurements. The subdial at the 3 o'clock position shows the running 24 hour time, the subdial at the 6 o'clock position shows the actual running seconds, and the subdial at the 9 o'clock position shows the number of elapsed minutes since the timer started. The main second hand is used to track seconds elapsed.

Step 4: Calculate elapsed time

To calculate elapsed time, add together the minutes sundial and the main second hand. For example, if the subdial at the 9 o'clock position shows 4 minutes and the main second hand shows 8 seconds, the elapsed time is 4 minutes and 8 seconds.

Overall, a chronograph watch is a valuable tool that can help you track time accurately, especially when measuring elapsed time. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively use a chronograph watch to measure time and speed with precision.

For more on measuring speed with a Tachymeter, read our blog.