Kinetic watches have increased in popularity over the years since the Japanese company; Seiko first introduced this type of watch in Germany in 1988. These watches were first called Auto-Quartz and the automatic quartz movements were called the Automatic Generating System, it wasn't until 1997 that Seiko named the watches "Kinetic".
Technological advancements by Seiko include:
Kinetic Auto Relay, if the watch is stationary for 72 hours that stops the analog hands in order to conserve power during long periods of inactivity, and can maintain a record of the correct time for four years.
Kinetic Perpetual which is the first Kinetic caliber combining Kinetic technology, Auto Relay capabilities, and a perpetual calendar correct until February 28, 2100.
The different calibers of Kinetic watches are relatively large and heavy. Therefore, most Seiko Kinetic watches are only available in a men's size.
The mode of operation of a kinetic watch is this: A rotating pendulum inside the watch casing is connected to a large gear meshed with a small pinion. As the wearer of the watch moves, the pendulum turns and spins the pinion at very high speeds powering the mini generator which charges the tiny capacitors which can store enough power to run the watch for up to six months.
There are other companies such as Swatch and Critique who have attempted to foray into the market without much success.
Seiko was the first to introduce the technology of a quartz watch powered by human movement which is an innovation so important that it has resulted in over fifty patents. The great thing about a kinetic watch that most guys love is that it is very low maintenance. It never needs winding, never needs a battery and it is environmentally friendly.
Some of the models available are:
Kinetic Perpetual: This watch automatically adjusts for odd and even months including February leap years up to the year 2100. It will also put itself in suspended animation after 24 hours of inactivity to conserve energy. All you have to do to "wake it" is shake your wrist and it will automatically reset itself to the correct time even if it has been sitting for years.
Kinetic Chronograph: These watches have four times as many wheels than those found in a normal quartz watch. The kinetic technology reduces heavy power consumption which is the problem facing most quartz chronographs and a full charge can power the watch for up to five months.
It features and energy depletion forewarning functions, overcharge prevention, and measures standard elapsed time.
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