One of the most widely used watch movements worldwide is the retrograde movement. Because of its distinctive and captivating design, it is also adored by a large number of people who are interested in vintage timepieces. Let’s take a deep look at this movement.

The retrograde or slow-grade watch movement is the internal mechanism of a watch. The movement is a kind of timekeeping device that measures time using a mechanical mechanism. Regular watch movements with a precision of 1/4 second operating at 6, 12, 18, 24, and 30 minutes per hour. Because it allows for more precise timekeeping than quartz watches, this type of movement is popular among vintage and classic timepieces.

How does it work?

The gears that drive regular watch movements rotate on an hourly or minute basis. The gears of your normal watch movement begin to move when you click the second button on your regular watch timer. This allows you to track the number of hours that have elapsed since you last hit the button. 

Tradition Quantième Rétrograde

On the other hand, when you press the retrograde button on your retrograde watch timer, the gears in the regular watch movement will stop and the gears in a progressive or fast-grade watch movement will start. This type of watch movement will track time in accordance with its schedule, which is one minute every hour.

Different types of Retrograde Movement

Retrograde watch movements come in three types: race cars, dive watches, and pocket chronographs, which are used for regular activities like drinking coffee. This kind of movement is used by race cars because they are popular for racing; diving watches use it because it allows you to stay submerged underwater while tracking dive data; and pocket chronographs use it because it is portable and useful for a variety of activities, including hunting and fishing.

Different types of Retrograde Display

A multitude of data can be shown on retrograde displays. The date is the most popular, with the hand moving in a semi-circular arc and returning at the end of the month. Retrograde displays, however, can also display additional data, including the day of the week, the month, or even the moon’s phase.

Breguet Tradition Quantieme Retrograde 7597 Blue Dial White Gold 7597BBGY9WU 7
Breguet Tradition Quantieme Retrograde 7597

Some timepieces even have numerous retrograde displays, each displaying a distinct piece of data. As a result, the dial is lively and captivating to look at, really setting these watches apart. The retrograde mechanism, which provides a distinctive touch to every watch regardless of the type of display, is a favorite among watch enthusiasts.

The retrograde movement is a unique example of watchmakers’ creativity and skill in the world of high-end mechanical timepieces. It provides a distinctive method of telling time, giving the watch a lively and eye-catching feature. Watch aficionados all over the world are still fascinated by the retrograde mechanism, maybe even more so because of its complexity.

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    There’s no doubting the attraction of these amazing watches, whether you’re pulled to the intricate technical details of the mechanism or just like the retrograde display’s aesthetic appeal. A retrograde watch is a monument to the human search for accuracy and beauty, as well as a celebration of the art and science of horology.

    MP 13 Tourbillion Bi Axis Retrograde 44mm back shot
    MP 13 Tourbillion Bi Axis Retrograde 44mm back shot

    So, are you interested in getting one? If you are looking for a timepiece with retrograde movement, you can visit the nearest The Time Place boutique.