Can I Get My Watch COSC Certified? [ Complete Guideline Here ]
Just like with cars, there is often a big difference in quality and price between watches that are COSC Certified and those that are not. However, you can get this certification watch without paying an extra premium for it.
The COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres) is the official Swiss chronometer testing institute that came up with the “Label of Chronometric Precision” (L.C.) precisely for this reason: to make it easy for watch buyers to identify chronometer-certified watches.
Also, you have to check out my post on the Top 5 Best Smartwatch With Oxygen Sensor Reviews of 2022.
Only watches that pass the COSC’s high standards receive this prestigious distinction. And, as you might expect, these watches come with a correspondingly high price tag.
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How To Get A COSC-Certified Watch?
However, you don’t have to break the bank to get your hands on a COSC-certified timepiece. Many brands offer this model at a variety of price points.
To receive this certification, all a watch needs to do is pass the official chronometer tests. There are two ways this can happen: either with a manufacturer’s certificate or with an official COSC watch certificate.
Manufacturer’s Certificates: An increasing number of brands offer watches that have passed the tests but are not COSC certified. These watches usually have the mention of “Chronometer” somewhere on the dial, which is another sign of the high quality of these watches.
Official COSC Certificate: A watchmaker can send in a movement to be tested for this certification, which costs from about 80 to more than 1000 Swiss Francs. The actual testing is then free of charge, which makes the cost a lot easier to bear.
If you want to get a COSC-certified timepiece for less, this is the way to do it. The most important thing to look for is the “Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute” (COSC) stamp on the movement.
How Does A Chronometer Work?
A chronometer is a watch that has been certified to meet high accuracy standards. The term comes from the Greek words “khrón” meaning time, and “metron” meaning measure.
If a watch is called a chronometer, it means that the movement has been tested and certified by the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC). To be certified, a watch movement must meet the demanding criteria for the precision of -4/+6 seconds per day.
The rate for a chronometer is measured in “per hour” not “per day” because the latter would be too lenient. For example, a watch that lost 2 seconds per day would be off by -24 seconds per day if it lost 2 seconds over 12 hours.
While the chronometer was originally designed for use in marine navigation, it has become part of everyday life for watch owners.
Recommend Our Top Pick – Great COSC Certified Watch
Finding the best COSC-certified watch can be a challenge, but we’re here to help! In this section, we’ll recommend our top pick and share some of the features you’re most likely to find in a top-of-the-line COSC watch so that you can make the most informed decision possible.
#CX Swiss Military Unisex 2116 COSC Certified Chronometer DLC Watch
Features:
- DLC-coated
- COSC-Certified
- Anti-magnetic
- SO 764 standardized
- Scratch-resistant
Our Review:
What a beautiful piece of machinery. It is a pilot watch with a professional design and it functions very well too.
The hurricane with the ETA cal.7750 COSC, which has been certified by the chronometer, establishes a new bar in its field. From a construction point of view, the watch is robust and well manufactured.
We loved that the movement has been described as being similar to that found in watches costing 10 times the price. The rotor winds smoothly and the watch keeps excellent time. The dial is very clear and easy to read, even for those of us wearing glasses.
You will like that the steel casing is DLC-coated and anti-magnetic according to ISO 764 so that it can withstand a magnetic field of up to 80,000 A/m. The sapphire glass is very thick and scratch-resistant.
Moreover, the bezel allows you to perform all necessary aeronautical computations. The black strap is also very interesting and it is made of rubber and kevlar. The screw-down crown and pushers keep the watch water-resistant up to 200 meters (which is better than normal … usually watches can only be used for shallow-water activities like swimming).
Why We Like It:
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Very accurate timekeeping
- Professional design
- Water-resistant up to 200 meters
Why We Dislike It:
- A screw-down crown usually makes the watch more difficult to wind
Conclusion
A chronometer is a watch that has been certified to meet high accuracy standards. If you want to get a COSC-certified timepiece for less, this is the way to do it. Just look for the “Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute” (COSC) stamp on the movement.
CX Swiss Military watch is one of the most incredible watches on the market for this price range. It has a beautiful design and it is functional. From a construction point of view, it is solid and reliable.
We hope that this article has helped you learn more about chronometers, COSC certification watches, and what to look for when purchasing one. Stay safe and happy shopping!
