With the recent release of the Longines Ultra-Chron, we couldn?t help but think ?wow, silicon has come a long way in watches.? Sure, this fairly abundant element is used in far more sophisticated applications than in the manufacture of springs, gears, and other components that make our watches tick, but in the scheme of an anachronistic and stubborn industry, it?s still new and exciting. Loved for being amagnetic, light, hard, and not needing oil, silicon can lead to movements that are more durable, require less servicing, and depending on how it is used, more accurate. header image shows the silicon oscillator from the short-lived Zenith Defy Labs
But, you probably already knew all that. After all, it?s been over 20 years since silicon was introduced into watches by Ulysses Nardin in the Freak (a name that somehow doesn?t quite convey its historical significance). Omega also introduced the Si14 silicon hairspring in 2008, paving the way for their highly magnetic resistant and accurate Master Chronometer movements. What really has changed is accessibility. No longer do you have to invest in a piece of Haute horology to have the silicon experience. Rather, you can get started for under $1k. Perhaps even more interesting, however, are some of the recent applications of this material that truly feel like the future of watchmaking.
Before getting into our list below, it?s worth mentioning that due to patents, silicon hairsprings, in particular, are still fairly restricted t...