In the world of watches, the movement is like an engine, determining the accuracy and performance of the watch. And high-frequency movement is a “black technology” in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. How awesome is it? What kind of improvement in travel time accuracy can a difference of one Hz bring? This article will give you an in-depth understanding of the charm of high-frequency movements, and compare several distinctive watches to help you find the one that suits you best!
The charm of high-frequency movements
In the world of watches, the movement is like the engine of a car, determining the performance and quality of the watch. We often see “vibration frequency 5 Hz” written in the parameters of some watches. What does this mean? Simply put, the vibration frequency is the number of times the balance wheel swings per second. A vibration frequency of 4 Hz is equivalent to a balance wheel swinging four times per second, while a vibration frequency of 5 Hz is equivalent to five swings per second.
From a numerical point of view, the vibration frequency of 5 Hz is one more time than that of 4 Hz. This difference may not sound big, but in actual travel time, the time difference produced by one vibration is very significant. Take the second hand to complete a circle as an example. If the unit of each jump is 100 milliseconds, then the vibration of 1 Hz takes about 100 milliseconds. If it is 5 Hz, it only takes 20 milliseconds. In this way, the accuracy of 5 Hz travel time is a whole order of magnitude higher than that of 4 Hz.
Moreover, high-frequency movements also have great advantages in theory. They are less susceptible to external interference. Factors such as temperature changes and magnetic fields have far less impact on them than low-frequency movements. This is why some watch enthusiasts like high-frequency movements.
Longines L2.839.4.52.2
Here, let’s compare the parameters and features of these three watches.
It is Longines’ classic replica series L2.839.4.52.2. This watch uses a 43 mm carbon fiber case and is equipped with an L.836.6 high-frequency movement. The vibration frequency is also 5 Hz, the power reserve is 52 hours, and it has a waterproof depth of 200 meters.
From a price point of view, this watch is less than 50,000 yuan, which is undoubtedly a good choice for consumers with limited budget. Moreover, the carbon fiber material not only reduces the weight of the watch, but also improves the overall pressure resistance.
Zenith 03.9301.3620/18.I001
Next is Zenith’s pinnacle series 03.9301.3620/18.I001. The case of this watch is made of fine steel with a diameter of 41 mm. It is also equipped with a high-frequency movement with a vibration frequency of 5 Hz, a power reserve of 60 hours, and is waterproof to 100 meters.
Judging from various parameters, this watch is slightly better than Longines, but the price is also much more expensive, basically within 100,000 yuan, which is a good choice for consumers with sufficient budget.
Rolex M1273340001
Let’s take a look at Rolex’s land-based series M1273340001. This watch is a new model launched in 2025. It is made of white gold and steel. It is very luxurious. The diameter of the watch is 40 mm. It is also equipped with a high-frequency movement type 7135, with a vibration frequency of 5 Hz, a power reserve of 66 hours, and a water resistance of 100 meters.
From the parameter point of view, this watch has the strongest dynamic storage capacity, and the material is also the highest quality, which is very suitable for consumers who like luxury goods.
Summarize
From these three watches, we can clearly see the different pursuits of Rolex, Zenith and Longines in watchmaking technology. Although they are all high-frequency movements, they still have their own advantages in other aspects.
If you like lighter watches, then Longines will be a good choice; if you like more classic designs, then Zenith may be more suitable for you; if you pursue luxury, then Rolex will definitely not let you down.