Watch crown explained

With the crown of your watch you can set the time of an analog watch, change the date and sometimes wind the watch. 
When choosing a new watch, most people mainly look at the strap, the dial, the case and less at the watch crown. Unjustified, because although the watch crown is only a small part, the crown plays a crucial role in both the appearance and functions of a watch. In this article we give you all the information about the different types of watch crowns, shapes and functions 

Types of watch crowns 

The three most common types of watch crowns are the push-pull crown, the screw-down crown and the pusher. 

Pull-push crown 

The pull-push crown is standard on most analog quartz and automatic watches. As the name suggests, you can pull the crown out and then adjust the day, date and time by turning the crown. Then push the crown back in to lock it in place. 

Screw-down crown 

Unlike a push-pull crown, a screw-down crown must first be unscrewed in order to operate the crown. This type of crown is mainly used on watches that must be waterproof, such as diving watches. After adjusting the time/date, press and screw the crown back into the case. 

Push crown or pusher 

The push crown, also called a pusher, is usually used to operate specific functions of the watch, such as the chronograph (stopwatch). An analog watch usually has a 'normal' crown in addition to the pusher(s). Digital watches generally only have pushers.

The most common shapes of watch crown 

Over time, different crown shapes have evolved, which often provide information about which watch type the crown belongs to. The most common crown shapes are the following: 

Straight crown 

The most common crown shape is simple and straight. This type of crown is mainly found on modern watches. The straight crown is usually round in shape and ribbed for good grip, but sometimes also has another shape such as a hexagon. This is usually done to make operating the crown more comfortable. 

Onion-shaped crown and conical crown 

The onion-shaped crown is so called because of its spherical appearance and grooves reminiscent of the layers of an onion. This crown is often used for classic pilot watches and pocket watches. The conical crown is also a remnant from the early days of aviation and is therefore mainly found on aviator watches. Pilots appreciated the feel of the conical crown because it was easy to operate even with gloves on.

Cabochon crown 

Cabochon means "nailhead" in French, and refers to a gemstone that is cut flat at the bottom and domed at the top. A crown with cabochon is usually decorated with a small gemstone or glass and is often found on classic luxury watches. 

Recessed crown 

The most subtle crown shape is probably the recessed crown. This is concealed in the case and thus less visible. This type of crown is mainly found in high-end women's watches and minimalist and design watches.

Protection of the crown; the most vulnerable point of your watch 

The crown - because it is directly connected to the movement with a thin pin - is the weakest point of a watch. Because when the crown is pulled or screwed open, dirt and water can easily enter the case. For this reason, watch manufacturers have taken various measures to protect their watches. The best-known example of this is the screw-down crown; The crown is screwed into the case, making it hermetically sealed. In addition, the case and crown contain various sealing rings, further increasing water and dust resistance. For example, Certina's DS system. 

Because the crown protrudes from the case, you can easily bump into it, causing it to bend. Especially with "tool watches" such as outdoor watches or military watches, elevations have been added to the case, where the crown is protected. For example with Victorinox I.N.O.X. 

A third way to protect the crown is a special lever or closing cap, such as on the iconic TW Steel Canteen.

Position of the watch crown 

On most watches, the crown is located on the right side of the case at the 3 o'clock mark.

Why do different watches have the crown at 4 o'clock? 

If you are right-handed and move a lot, the crown - especially with larger watches - can irritate your hand. Moving the crown to 4 o'clock makes it more comfortable to wear. 

Watch crown on the left 

The vast majority of humanity is right-handed and watches are traditionally worn on the wrist of the non-dominant hand. This means that most people wear their watches on their left wrist. Because the watch crown protrudes from the right side, this means that it can damage the back of your hand during sports or other activities. That is why some right-handed people wear their watches on the right wrist, or purchase a watch with the crown on the left. 
Also, a watch with the crown on the left is easier to operate for left-handed people. You will find left-handed crowns, on among others Citizen Promaster watches.

Watches with two or more crowns 

In addition to watches with one crown, there are also watches with two or even three crowns. These 'extra' crowns are usually intended to serve a separate function. For example, an internal (diving) bezel or second time zone on a GMT watch.

Watch crown broken 

If the crown of your watch is stuck, do not try to force it, but visit the watchmaker immediately. He or she can oil the mechanism and replace any worn gaskets. If the watch crown is broken off or bent, it must be replaced. But it is even better to have your watch regularly serviced.