Timing is absolutely necessary for motorsport. A racing watch, as the name implies, is a timepiece designed specifically for keeping track of race times. A racing watch is generally used while taking part in automobile races, although it can also be worn during motorbike, horse, and yacht events.
Since the late 1800s, when horse-drawn carriage runs were timed using pocket watches, timekeeping has been used to document accurate racing times. While motor racing and watchmaking have evolved in terms of technology and innovation, racing watches are still vital today as they were back then.
A racing watch is influenced by a vehicle’s design and features sporty straps and dials reminiscent of a car’s dashboard, as well as a chronograph to measure time and distance, as well as a tachymeter to calculate speed. Let’s have a look at some of the standard features of a racing watch.
Racing Watch Features
Chronograph
A chronograph is a timepiece that also has the ability to measure duration. A chronograph may be used to check the passage of time by utilizing either a single or two push buttons to start and stop the sweeping second hand, as shown in this illustration. By pushing a button, you may start, stop, and reset the stopwatch without jeopardizing the watch’s main purpose.
Tachymeter Scale
A Chronometer is a precision measuring instrument that can be used to calculate speed. A Tachymeter, which may be found on chronograph timepieces, is a watch feature that measures how fast someone goes over a specified period of time. The scale of a Tachymeter is usually measured in miles or kilometres per hour and is inscribed around the dial or bezel edge.
High-Contrast Dial
A racing watch’s high-contrast dial improves the clock dial’s legibility, allowing drivers to read their timepieces while driving at substantial speeds. This is because it ensures that even if the driver is driving rapidly, they may still see their watch with a brief glimpse.
Rally Style Straps Or Metal Bracelets
On vintage racing timepieces, a rally-style strap constructed of sturdy materials such as rubber or leather is utilized. The straps usually had perforated holes, which were inspired by the steering wheel and driving gloves. The perforated holes also help to keep moisture away from the wrist and between the drive and watch while racing gear is worn. Stainless steel, titanium, gold, or platinum metal bracelets are most common in contemporary racing watches.
