QUICK ANSWER
A skeletonised watch exposes its inner workings by removing non-essential metal from the movement, revealing the mechanical artistry through the dial.

A skeletonized watch has been meticulously carved and decorated to remove non-essential metal from the movement bridges, plates, and wheels, revealing the mechanical components through the dial and/or case back. True skeletonization showcases craftsmanship through hand-engraved, openworked architecture rather than simple cutouts.
Properly executed skeletonization doesn't compromise reliability—only non-structural material is removed, and remaining components are reinforced. However, exposed mechanisms are more vulnerable to dust, magnetism, and shock. Skeleton watches require more frequent servicing and careful handling compared to enclosed movements.
Open-heart watches feature a small window in the dial showing the balance wheel, while maintaining standard movement finishing underneath. Skeleton watches have extensively carved, decorated movements visible throughout, with artistic engraving and architectural openwork. Skeletonization is far more labor-intensive and expensive.

.avif)