Why does an automatic watch cost more?

An automatic movement is around 150 parts that have to be assembled, oiled and adjusted; a quartz movement is a circuit board and a small motor that are mass-produced. That is a large part of the price difference — and of the difference in what you are buying: quartz is the accurate, effortless watch, automatic is a piece of mechanics that lives off your wrist and can last for generations with servicing.

In short: if it's your first proper watch, or it just needs to keep time and look good, go for quartz (accurate, thinner, cheaper). If you want the craftsmanship, the sound and a watch with a display back, go for automatic — and expect to set it now and then. Citizen and Maserati have both, so you can compare; see automatic watches and quartz.

If you have a question about a particular watch, ask Nord, our assistant, at the bottom right — or write to us.