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Skeletonised

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(skel-uh-tuh-nahyzd)

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

What does

Skeletonised

mean?

A skeleton watch is a type of mechanical watch where the moving parts are visible, either through the front, back, or a small cut outlining the dial. True skeletonization involves trimming away non-essential metal from the bridge, plate, wheel train, or other mechanical parts, leaving only a minimalist 'bare' skeleton necessary for functionality. The remaining movement is often decorated with engraving. Skeleton watches can also feature designs like the “semi-skeleton,” which has a partial cutaway of the watch face, and the “open heart,” which includes a window to view the oscillation of the balance wheel. These watches are known for their intricate design and craftsmanship, often considered luxury items due to the complexity and skill required in their creation.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a skeletonized watch?

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.

Are skeletonized watches less reliable?

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.

What's the difference between skeleton and open-heart watches?

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.

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