Quartz clocks are a staple in households and workplaces around the world, prized for their reliability and precision. But what exactly makes these timepieces so accurate? The secret lies in the use of quartz, a remarkable mineral with unique properties that revolutionised timekeeping. In this blog, we’ll explore how quartz clocks work, why they’re so accurate, and what alternatives are available in the world of timekeeping.
What exactly is quartz?
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on earth. It’s made from silicon dioxide, which forms in a crystalline structure that has some intriguing physical properties. One of these properties, piezoelectricity, plays a crucial role in timekeeping. When a piece of quartz is cut into the right shape and placed under an electrical charge, it vibrates at a very precise frequency. This characteristic is key to the accuracy of quartz clocks.
In the 20th century, clockmakers discovered that quartz could be used to regulate timepieces much more effectively than traditional mechanical methods. Quartz crystals vibrate at a consistent rate, making them ideal for ensuring that clocks tick at exactly the right pace.
How do quartz clocks work?
In a quartz clock, a small piece of quartz crystal is used as the heart of the timekeeping mechanism. The clock’s battery sends an electrical charge through the quartz, causing it to vibrate. These vibrations occur at an extremely steady rate—usually at 32,768 vibrations per second. This frequency is perfect for timekeeping as it can be easily divided down to produce one tick per second.
Here’s a simplified breakdown of how it works:
- Electrical charge: The battery supplies power to the quartz crystal.
- Quartz oscillation: The crystal vibrates at a precise frequency due to the piezoelectric effect.
- Frequency division: An electronic circuit divides the quartz vibrations down to one pulse per second.
- Movement control: These pulses are sent to a motor or electronic display, moving the hands of the clock or updating the digital readout.
This steady, reliable vibration allows quartz clocks to maintain their accuracy over long periods, with minimal deviation.
Why are quartz clocks so accurate?
Quartz clocks are highly accurate because the quartz crystal vibrates at a stable and predictable frequency. Unlike traditional mechanical clocks that can be affected by changes in temperature, humidity, and even gravity, quartz remains unaffected by these environmental factors.
A typical quartz clock will deviate by only a few seconds per month, making them vastly more accurate than mechanical clocks, which may lose or gain several minutes over the same period. Quartz's piezoelectric properties ensure that these tiny vibrations continue at a constant rate, providing an unmatched level of timekeeping precision for everyday use.
Alternatives to quartz clocks
While quartz clocks dominate the market due to their affordability and accuracy, there are other types of clocks available, each with its own timekeeping mechanism:
Mechanical clocks: Traditional mechanical clocks use gears, springs, and pendulums to keep time. These clocks are powered by winding a spring or by weights that provide energy. However, mechanical clocks are more prone to variations in time due to external factors and wear over time. While they may not be as accurate as quartz, mechanical clocks are cherished for their craftsmanship and historical significance.
Atomic clocks: Atomic clocks are the most accurate timekeeping devices in the world, far surpassing both quartz and mechanical clocks. Instead of using a quartz crystal, atomic clocks measure the vibrations of atoms, usually caesium or rubidium. These vibrations are even more consistent than quartz, making atomic clocks accurate to within one second every 100 million years. However, atomic clocks are highly specialised and are not typically used in homes or offices.
Meet some of our favourite Jones quartz clocks
A quartz movement wall clock with a faux dark wood acrylic case, metal hands, and a glass lens.
A quartz movement wall clock with a flat glass lens, metal spade hands, and a decorative moulded case.
A quartz movement alarm clock with a decorative matt-finish case, metal spade hands, and a glass lens.
A quartz movement wall clock with an eye-catching red colour, a retro acrylic case, metal hands, and a glass lens.
A quartz step movement wall clock with an acrylic case, metal hands, and a glass lens.
Our quartz clocks are known for their precise time-keeping, losing only about four seconds per month. They are powered by batteries, which are not included with the clock.
At Jones Clocks, we’re proud to offer a wide range of beautifully designed quartz clocks, ensuring you always stay on time and in style. Whether you’re looking for a classic wall clock, a hint of retro, or a sleek modern design, a quartz clock from Jones is the perfect solution for accurate timekeeping in your home or office.
