The Feeling of Weight on the Wrist: Why a Watch’s “Presence” Matters
Why does the weight of a watch matter? Discover how the feeling of heaviness on the wrist influences perceptions of quality, comfort, and style in the world of mechanical watches.
Author: Recep Dayi
What Is a Tool Watch? Mission-Ready Gear or Just a State of Mind?
What is a tool watch really for? This article explores whether these rugged timepieces are made for real missions—or just to make you feel ready for anything, even if you’re just making a PowerPoint.
Why Is the Ticking of Mechanical Watches So Satisfying?
Some sounds evoke a sense of calm in our minds—raindrops tapping against a window, the scratch of a pencil on paper… and for watch enthusiasts, one of the most captivating of all: the tick of a mechanical watch. But why is this sound so uniquely satisfying?
For me, it’s not just the sound of a machine working—it’s the sensation of time flowing silently beneath the surface. When I got my first mechanical watch, I discovered its ticking late at night in complete silence. That was the moment I realized: this isn’t just a device—it’s something alive on my wrist.
This article explores more than just a sound; it’s a journey through emotion, memory, and choice.
The Rhythm of Time: Why Does It Tick?
Mechanical watches generate a steady rhythm through the oscillation of the balance wheel. The frequency of that movement determines the character of the ticking sound.
- 3 Hz (21,600 vph): Slower, more pronounced tick (e.g., Miyota 8215)
- 4 Hz (28,800 vph): Smoother but still audible rhythm (e.g., ETA 2824)
- 5 Hz (36,000 vph): High-frequency hum with a rapid cadence (e.g., Zenith El Primero)
These ticks are the dance of microscopic components, orchestrating time.
The Psychological Impact: Why Does Our Brain Respond?
The ticking of a mechanical watch is rhythmic—predictable, like a heartbeat. It creates a sense of order, something our minds instinctively find soothing. Unlike digital screens, mechanical watches make time feel tangible.
- Improved focus: In quiet environments, rhythmic sound can enhance concentration.
- Nostalgic trigger: The ticking reminds many of old clocks or heirloom pocket watches.
I still recall the sound of my grandfather’s pocket watch tucked under his pillow. That subtle rhythm occasionally echoes in my memory during moments of silence.
Digital Silence vs. Mechanical Sound
Digital watches boast their silence. But for enthusiasts, this absence of sound can feel like something is missing. Ticking isn’t just a byproduct—it’s a sign of life.
Some wearers find the absence of that soft mechanical beat unsettling, as if something essential is lost.
Capturing Emotion with a Microphone: Why Is Watch Ticking So Popular on YouTube?
Search for “watch ticking ASMR” on YouTube, and you’ll find hundreds of videos. The sound isn’t just auditory—it’s tactile and emotional.
Some clips offer nothing but the ticking of a watch and rack up thousands of hours of views. It shows how a timekeeping tool becomes a deeply personal object. On quiet evenings, I’ve caught myself lifting a watch to my ear, letting that steady rhythm remind me there’s still structure amid the noise of life.
Which Watches Offer the Most Satisfying Tick?
- Manual-wind watches: No rotor noise, clearer ticking.
- Low-frequency movements: More defined gaps between ticks.
- Vintage pieces: Older materials and thinner cases enhance acoustic resonance.
Personally, the clearest ticking I’ve ever heard came from an old Poljot. The sound wasn’t just rhythmic—it carried a faint metallic echo that seemed to hold time itself.
Conclusion
The ticking of a mechanical watch isn’t merely a vibration. It’s a subtle reminder of time’s presence—a sound that deepens our connection to the moment. In a digital world where silence is often praised, for watch lovers, a tick might mean everything.
Sometimes, that ticking sound takes you back—to a memory, a person, a forgotten dream. That’s when a watch doesn’t just tell the time; it links you to time itself.
Why Do Some Watches Have an Extra Button for Date Adjustment?
Some mechanical watches use a small button instead of the crown to adjust the date. Discover why this feature exists—especially in watches with the ETA 7753 movement—and what it says about mechanical design.
Mühle-Glashütte – Committed to Function, Without Sacrificing Elegance
Mühle-Glashütte blends German engineering with functional elegance. A microbrand for those who value clarity, durability, and refined tool-watch design.
Sinn Spezialuhren – German Watches for the Technically Minded
In the world of watches, some brands may not strike you as “design icons” at first glance—but the more you explore, the deeper you fall. For me, Sinn Spezialuhren is exactly that kind of brand. Understated but uncompromising, simple yet highly technical. And if the concept of a true “tool watch” speaks to you, meeting Sinn is inevitable.
A Brief Introduction to Sinn
My journey with Sinn started out of pure curiosity but gradually turned into admiration. Today, I proudly wear a Sinn 105 St Sa, and it reminds me not just of time, but of the kind of respect that real engineering deserves. The first time I wore it, I felt an immediate sense of sturdiness, subtle elegance, and functionality—exactly what I expect from a tool watch.
Sinn was founded in 1961 by Helmut Sinn, a former pilot and flight instructor, in Frankfurt. From day one, the brand’s DNA has emphasized functionality, readability, and technical durability.
Initially focusing on aviation instruments and professional-grade watches, Sinn has since expanded its range. Still, the focus on professional use remains at the brand’s core.
What Makes Sinn Watches Special?
Sinn is all about engineering over marketing. They offer truly functional, patented technologies that are built to perform in extreme environments—not just look impressive on paper:
- Ar-Dehumidifying Technology: This system uses a special drying capsule to keep the inside of the watch moisture-free, preventing fogging and protecting the movement from corrosion for years. Especially useful when exposed to rapid temperature changes.
- Tegiment Technology: Sinn hardens the case material not just on the surface but on a molecular level. The result? A case that’s up to 5x more scratch-resistant than traditional stainless steel—built for real-world toughness.
- HYDRO Technology: Used in diving watches, this technique fills the case with a special liquid to eliminate internal reflections and ensure 100% legibility from any angle—even underwater. It also enables extreme depth resistance, up to 5,000 meters.
- DIAPAL Technology: In select calibers, Sinn uses lubricant-free materials for the escapement wheel and pallet fork. This increases long-term accuracy and eliminates the need for lubrication in key areas.
- Magnetic Field Protection: Some models provide resistance up to 80,000 A/m, making them ideal for pilots, engineers, or anyone working in high magnetic environments.
Sinn is also one of the few brands that builds watches to meet DIN 8330—a German standard for pilot watches. This makes them not only aesthetically appealing but also a technical benchmark.
Highlight Models
Sinn 556
A favorite among minimalists. Clean dial, solid case, automatic movement. A perfect daily companion.
Sinn U1 / U50
Tanks among dive watches. Made from German submarine steel. Exceptional durability and strength.
Sinn 103 / 140
Classic pilot chronographs. Retro in spirit, but highly capable.
Sinn EZM Series
“Einsatzzeitmesser” translates to “mission timer.” Designed for professionals who rely on maximum functionality.
Pricing and Availability
Sinn operates on a direct-to-consumer model, which helps keep prices competitive. Entry-level models start around €1,300. Icons like the U1 or 103 range between €2,000–3,000, while EZM models with advanced technologies can exceed €4,000.
Who Is It For?
- Those who value function over flash
- Fans of tool-watch culture
- Admirers of German engineering
- Curious minds who appreciate technical depth
Sinn doesn’t build watches that try to impress with more—they build watches that do more. And in my opinion, that’s exactly what gives them their special place in the watch world. In the next post, we’ll continue exploring technical brilliance through another German microbrand.
NOMOS Glashütte – Minimalist Design, German Craftsmanship & In-House Movements
Discover NOMOS Glashütte: minimalist German watches with in-house movements, Bauhaus-inspired design, and Glashütte-level craftsmanship.
Damasko: Durable German Watches with In-House Innovation
Discover Damasko, the German microbrand redefining tool watches with hardened steel cases, oil-free escapements, and in-house A26 movements. Built for real-life durability.
Exploring German Pilot Watch Heritage with Laco
When it comes to pilot watches, one of the first names that comes to mind is Laco. Founded in 1925 in Pforzheim, Germany, Laco earned its place in horological history through the iconic Beobachtungsuhr (B-Uhr) timepieces it produced during World War II. Today, the brand continues to honor that legacy with functional, minimalist designs, earning a special place among German microbrands.
A Brief History of Laco
Laco was established in 1925 by Frieda Lacher and Ludwig Hummel. The name “Laco” originates from “Lacher & Co.” In the 1930s, co-founder Hummel also established DUROWE (Deutsche Uhren-Roh-Werke), giving Laco the capability to manufacture its own movements—a significant turning point in the brand’s growth.
During World War II, Laco became one of the official suppliers of pilot watches to the German Luftwaffe. The B-Uhr watches they produced, with their massive 55 mm cases, highly legible dials, and precise mechanical movements, remain among the most iconic pilot watches in history.
Craftsmanship and Philosophy
Laco’s approach to watchmaking can be summed up as “strength from tradition.” Their timepieces, crafted in the Pforzheim workshop, combine traditional hand-assembly with modern manufacturing techniques. Using reliable ETA, Sellita, and Miyota movements, the brand offers pieces across a range of price points.
One of its standout lines is the Erbstück (“heirloom”) series. These watches are aged by hand to create patinated cases and dials with vintage character—no two watches are exactly alike.
Highlighted Collections
Flieger Original
A faithful tribute to the original B-Uhr designs of WWII. Available in large sizes like 42 mm and 45 mm, these watches offer an authentic pilot watch experience.
Augsburg / Aachen
Affordable and suitable for everyday wear. The Augsburg features the Type A dial, while the Aachen offers the Type B configuration. Both automatic and manual winding options are available.
Erbstück
A time capsule for vintage lovers. Each watch is individually aged by artisans. Unique, characterful, and steeped in history.
Frankfurt GMT
A modern take with dual-time zone functionality. Ideal for frequent travelers seeking a sleek yet practical companion.
Navy / Squad
Robust, technical diver-style watches. Designed for both everyday use and challenging environments.
A Watch Enthusiast’s Perspective
Laco is both a historic brand and a modern, dynamic microbrand—making it a rare gem in the watch world. For aviation enthusiasts and collectors, Laco is a go-to name. Its broad product lineup ranges from entry-level models to collectible timepieces.
Customization options like engraving, strap choices, and presentation boxes add a personal dimension to each Laco watch.
Who Is Laco For?
- Fans of historical pilot watch design
- Admirers of traditional German craftsmanship
- Those seeking vintage aesthetics with modern reliability
- Collectors looking for character-rich microbrand watches
Where to Buy Laco
Laco watches are available through the brand’s official website and selected specialty retailers. For international customers, shipping and warranty services are reliable and efficient.
Price Range of Laco Watches
Laco watches start at an accessible €400 and go up to over €2,000 for special editions. The Flieger Original Erbstück line, in particular, occupies the premium segment with its artisan finishing.
This is the second entry in the “Silent Master of Time” series. In the next article, we’ll explore Damasko—a German microbrand that pushes the boundaries of engineering excellence.
A Journey into German Watchmaking with STOWA
Take a journey into German watchmaking with the history, production approach and the featured collections of the STOWA watch brand. Discover STOWA, which stands out among micro brands.