Automatic Watches
A Comprehensive Guide of Watch Movement Manufacturers: The Pulse of Timepieces
By Argos Watches

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A movement inside a watch is as vital to watch enthusiasts as its design. The ticking heartbeat that powers a watch is not just a mechanism; it's a story of craftsmanship, precision, and decades of innovation. Whether you are a collector hunting for the perfect movement, an entrepreneur dreaming of launching your own watch brand, or simply someone who appreciates the art of watchmaking, understanding the insides of watches is a must.

This guide explores the world's most famous watch movement makers—from Swiss legends to reliable Japanese manufacturers and emerging Chinese challengers.

What Exactly is a Watch Movement?

Before we dive in, let’s break down what a watch movement actually is.

A watch movement—also known as a caliber—is the internal engine that keeps your watch running. It powers the hands, date function, chronograph, and any other complications (extra features like moon phases or power reserves).

Types of Watch Movements

  1. Mechanical (Hand-Wound): These require manual winding by turning the crown, a nostalgic touch for vintage lovers.
  2. Automatic (Self-Winding): These wind themselves using a rotor that moves as you wear the watch—perfect for those who want a classic feel with convenience.
  3. Quartz: Powered by a battery and a quartz crystal for extreme accuracy, these are the go-to for affordability and reliability.
With that in mind, let’s explore the major players in the movement industry.

Swiss Watch Movement Manufacturers: The Gold Standard of Horology

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Switzerland has been synonymous with watchmaking excellence for centuries. Swiss movements are known for their meticulous craftsmanship, luxury appeal, and enduring reliability.

ETA: The Powerhouse of Swiss Movements

If Swiss movements had a king, it would be ETA. Founded in the late 18th century and now owned by the Swatch Group, ETA is the world's largest movement manufacturer. It has supplied movements to almost every major Swiss brand, including Tissot, Longines, Omega, and TAG Heuer.

One of its most iconic movements is the ETA 2824-2, a workhorse automatic movement renowned for its accuracy, durability, and serviceability. However, in 2002, ETA announced plans to stop supplying movements to third-party brands outside the Swatch Group, forcing many brands to seek alternative suppliers.

Sellita: The ETA Alternative

Sellita started as an assembler of ETA movements but became fully independent in 2003. It is now the largest substitute for ETA, producing nearly identical clones of classic ETA movements. Some of the most well-known Sellita calibers include:
  • SW200 (clone of ETA 2824-2)
  • SW300 (clone of ETA 2892)
  • SW500 (clone of ETA 7750, used in chronographs)
Brands like Oris, TAG Heuer, IWC, and Sinn use Sellita movements, proving their reliability.

STP: Fossil Group's Well-Kept Secret

STP (Swiss Technology Production) is a relatively young Swiss movement manufacturer owned by Fossil. Established in 2008, it focuses on mechanical movements mainly for Fossil watches and smaller brands. The STP1-11 is an alternative to the ETA 2824-2, found in brands like Sternglas and Zodiac.

Japanese Watch Movement Manufacturers: Precision Meets Affordability

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Seiko: Innovation in Every Tick

Seiko is a household name, not only for its watches but also for its movements.

The NH35A, a reliable and budget-friendly automatic movement, is widely used by microbrands. Seiko also sells movements through its subsidiary Time Module Inc. (TMI), allowing third-party brands to use Seiko technology without the Seiko branding.

Orient: The Hidden Gem of Japanese Movements

Though owned by Seiko, Orient produces its own in-house movements. Known for their affordability and robustness, Orient movements power many entry-level automatic watches.

Chinese Watch Movement Manufacturers: The Emerging Challengers

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Seagull: The Champion of Chinese Watch Movements

Seagull, based in Tianjin, has been manufacturing movements since 1955 and is the world's largest volume manufacturer of mechanical movements.

One of the most famous Seagull calibers is the ST19 chronograph movement, an exact remake of the Swiss Venus 175. Originally designed for Swiss luxury watches, the design was sold to China in the 1960s, and Seagull has been producing it ever since.

Today, countless microbrands use Seagull movements, and the Seagull 1963 chronograph has become a collector’s favorite.

Last Thoughts: What Watch Movement to Choose?

Choosing the right movement depends on what you value most in a watch:
  1. If you want prestige and craftsmanship, go for a Swiss movement (ETA, Sellita, Soprod).
  2. If you want affordability and reliability, Japanese movements (Miyota, Seiko) are a great choice.
  3. If you want a budget-friendly alternative with surprising quality, Chinese movements (Seagull) are worth considering.
Regardless of the movement you choose, each one has a story—a legacy of engineering, innovation, and passion for watchmaking.

Precision in Motion: Argos Watch Movements

Argos Watches are powered by the reliable caliber 2706, an automatic movement boasting a 42-hour power reserve. These automatic movements are known for their durability, accuracy, and smooth performance. Designed for those who appreciate quality and precision, our timepieces offer both style and functionality.

Discover the perfect blend of craftsmanship and innovation—explore our collection today at Argos Watches!

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