When it comes to the intricate world of watch movements, two names stand out prominently: the Japanese NH35 and the Swiss Sellita SW200-1A. Both movements are highly respected in the horology community, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and priorities. Let's delve deeper into the nuances that set these movements apart.
The HISTORY
The NH35 and the Sellita SW200-1A both come from rich horological traditions, with histories that reflect the evolution of watchmaking in their respective countries.
The NH35 movement is a product of Seiko Instruments Inc., a subsidiary of the renowned Japanese watchmaking giant Seiko. Seiko has a storied history dating back to the late 19th century when the company was founded by Kintaro Hattori in Tokyo. Seiko has been at the forefront of innovation in the watch industry, introducing the world's first quartz watch in 1969 and pioneering advancements in automatic movements. The NH35, part of Seiko's SII division, exemplifies the Japanese dedication to precision engineering, reliability, and durability. Seiko's commitment to craftsmanship and technological advancement has solidified its reputation as a leading force in the watchmaking world.
Sellita, on the other hand, is a Swiss movement manufacturer that has a more recent history compared to Seiko. Founded in 1950 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Sellita initially focused on producing ebauches (movement blanks) and components for various watch brands. Over the years, Sellita expanded its operations and began manufacturing complete mechanical movements, including the SW200 series. The Sellita SW200-1A movement, often considered a reliable alternative to the ETA 2824-2, showcases Swiss precision and expertise in watchmaking. As a key player in the Swiss watch industry, Sellita has established itself as a trusted supplier of movements for both luxury and mid-range watch brands.
Both the NH35 and the SW200-1A movements embody the watchmaking heritage of their respective countries, with Seiko representing Japanese innovation and craftsmanship and Sellita showcasing Swiss precision and tradition. These movements carry forward the legacies of their manufacturers, blending modern technology with time-honored techniques to create reliable and high-performance movements that power a diverse range of timepieces around the world.
Our Watch The Ichthyosaur features the NH35 Movement:
The NH35, produced by Seiko Instruments Inc., is a workhorse movement renowned for its reliability and robustness. It operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3Hz) and boasts a power reserve of approximately 41 hours. Known for its accuracy and durability, the NH35 is a popular choice among affordable and mid-range timepieces, offering a solid foundation for everyday wear.
Our Watch The Neptune features the Sellita SW200-1A Movement:
On the other hand, the Sellita SW200-1A, hailing from Switzerland, is often considered a direct competitor to the ETA 2824-2 movement. The SW200-1A operates at a slightly higher frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and provides a power reserve of around 38 hours. Favored by many luxury watch brands as a reliable and precise movement, the SW200-1A offers smooth performance and is often found in higher-end timepieces.
One key difference between the NH35 and the SW200-1A lies in their origins and manufacturing processes. While the NH35 is a product of Japanese craftsmanship, and engineering excellence, known for its precision and longevity and dependability, the SW200-1A represents the Swiss tradition of watchmaking, synonymous with high quality and meticulous attention to detail.
In terms of customization and regulation, the Sellita SW200-1A provides more flexibility for watchmakers due to its compatibility with a wider range of complications and modifications. This versatility allows for greater creativity in designing timepieces that go beyond the standard hours, minutes, and seconds.
Ultimately, the choice between the NH35 and the SW200-1A depends on individual preferences, budget considerations, and the intended use of the watch. While the NH35 excels in reliability and affordability, the SW200-1A offers a touch of Swiss luxury and precision craftsmanship. Whichever movement you prefer, both the NH35 and the SW200-1A represent excellence in their respective categories, catering to the diverse needs of watch enthusiasts worldwide.
