Seeing through the 'heart' of a watch—the secrets of an exhibition case back

　　Many watch enthusiasts have a keen interest in the internal structure and mechanical movements of timepieces. With their graceful curves, constantly running gears, and power transmission, exhibition case backs capture the curiosity of many, allowing one to admire the little secrets of “exposed” time while wearing the watch.

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　　If that were all, why would people spendQuartz watchesseveral times the price to buy a mechanical watch?

　　Because of the substance and inner beauty. While exceptional technology can create high-quality quartz watches, however,Mechanical watchmechanical watches are different. Technology is one aspect, but luck and attitude also play varying roles. The prices of quartz watches are mostly similar, and they are highly interchangeable, much like spare parts; whereas mechanical watches of the same model all have subtle differences, much like a painter's work. The culture and substance hidden within a mechanical watch are its very essence.

　　An exhibition case back also allows us to clearly see the internal mechanical operation, providing a better understanding of how functions like perpetual calendars, alarms, flybacks, and minute repeaters are achieved. One can also carefully appreciate the artistic beauty of the finishing patterns and engravings, all of which are a pleasure that quartz watches cannot match.

　　Of course, this substance is not something we can see at a glance. When a watch is worn on the wrist, the dial certainly cannot be seen from the back, making the exhibition case back an important expression of the watch's substance. You will find that most high-end watches have a simple front and a gorgeous exhibition back. This is the charm of the exhibition case back; it requires time to understand and your heart to contemplate.

　　There is also a semi-exhibition case back. Although some parts of the movement are obscured by the bearings, the “exposed” portion of the movement creates a sense of 'half-hidden behind a lute,' which is breathtakingly beautiful, adding a sense of balanced beauty that is both reserved and expressive.