acrylic glass

Glass-like product made from polyacrylic esters.

It is highly break resistance and is resistant to weather and corrosion. Small scratches can easily be polished out.

amplitude
Distance of oscillation (swing or beat).
The amplitude is the maximum angle of rotation of the balancebetween the point of equilibrium and one of the
reversal points of the oscillation. The average amplitude values of most watch movements made today are between
250 and 300. As the lubricant ages, this value gradually falls.
DIAPAL Technology deals with this problem at the root, by dispensing with the need for oil altogether.

angling
Decorative processing of edge contours, particularly on the bridges and cocks of a high quality movement.
During angling, a decorative bevelled edge is created (the edge is angled). Angling is a highly skilled finishing
technique used instead of the conventional deburring/rounding of edge contours.

anti-magnetic
Sensitive to magnetic field interference up to a certain level.
Devices or equipment, the functions of which are protected from magnetic interference by the use of suitable
materials and/or screening up to a specified level, are antimagnetic.

anti-reflection
When light hits a glass surface it splits in two: one part of the light is bounced back as a reflection, the other goes into
the glass. Reflections severely impair the readability of a watch; they reduce both the light permeability of the crystal
and also the clarity of the image. Diffuse points of light and reflected images in non-antireflective glass can in some
cases be more dominant than the dial itself.
A very thin coating of a suitable translucent material is used to make glass anti-reflective. This coating is generally
vapor deposited onto the glass in a vacuum. The splitting of the light mentioned above then takes place both on the
surface of the glass and also on the surface of the thin anti-reflective layer. The light reflected from this layer overlaps
with that from the glass itself. The layer needs to be thick enough for the light reflected from the different surfaces to
cancel each other out through destructive interference. Destructive interference, in simple terms, is when two
opposing waves are offset so that the peak of one wave always coincides with a trough of the other, thereby
canceling each other out. Such a displacement occurs because the light reflected from the surface of the glass has to
travel slightly further than that from the surface of the coating to ensure overlapping. A further precondition for mutual
cancellation is that both waves must have the same amplitude. Multiple layers with different types of coating and
thicknesses are required to create an anti-reflective effect at different wavelengths (colours) of visible light.
Sinn's sapphire crystals are always coated on both sides to ensure optimum readability. Colorless anti-reflective
coatings are used, created using a precision-controlled coating technique, to ensure that the dials show their true
color.

antimagnetic watches
According to DIN, watches which do not stop when exposed to a magnetic field (see magnetism) and the accuracy of
which does not exceed specified limits when exposed to a magnetic field may be described as antimagnetic.
DIN guideline 8309 stipulates that mechanical watches areantimagnetic if their rate change does not exceed +/- 30
seconds per day after exposure to a magnetic field of 4,800 A/m (corresponds to 6 mT) (movement diameter larger
than 20 mm). The watch should also not stop when exposed to a magnetic field of this strength.
Mechanical watches react to magnetic fields primarily due to the fact that they contain temperature-compensating
hairsprings (seeNivarox).
At Sinn, we offer additional magnetic field protection in some watches.

Ar-Dehumidifying Technology
Sinn technology to reduce ageing processes inside the watch.
See Sinn Technology Ar-Dehumidifying Technology.

balance
The balance, in combination with the hairspring, constitutes the oscillation system of a mechanical watch.

Balance wheel withhairspring.

Balances nowadays are nearly always closed metallic wheels with two or three spokes. The balance spring is firmly
fastened to the balance shaft. This allows the balance to execute a rotary oscillation which is ultimately responsible
for the even running of the watch.
The to-and-fro motion of the balance is translated by means of a small ruby pin (ellipse) into to-and-fro rocking of the
anchor. Within this rhythm the anchor, in turn, inhibits the anchor wheel and therefore the entire gear train of the
watch (escapement).
The balance is normally made from an alloy called "glucydur". This is a type of beryllium bronze. This material
considerably reduces the influence of temperature. The residual temperature error is compensated by
the Nivarox spring.
An older, historical type of balance is the screw balance. This was first used in the form of the compensating balance
which is split at two points to compensate the temperature error; it has a bi-metal construction. The split balance
wheel creates the two balance "wings". The adjustment screws inserted on the sides were used to individually
compensate the large temperature error of earlier steel balance springs and to carry out the basic adjustment of the
movement. To compensate for the softening and lengthening of the balance spring as the temperature rose, the
inertia of the balance was made obversely dependent upon the temperature. The bi-metallic effect caused the two
balance wings to bend inwards when the temperature increased. This reduced their inertia, mirroring the principle
behind a figure skater lowering his arms while pirouetting to increase his speed of rotation.
Monometallic balances fitted with side adjustment screws for the basic regulation of the oscillation duration are still
valued today as means of upholding this watchmaking tradition. In homage to this tradition, balances in pocket watch
calibres are fitted with side screws to give them a high moment of inertia and to create the characteristic 18,000
vibrations per hour found in many pocket watches.

bar
Physical unit of pressure, i.e. force per surface area.
1 bar = 100 kPa = 0,1 MPa
One bar corresponds roughly to the average atmospheric air pressure at sea level. Water (hydrostatic) pressure
increases by approx. one bar for every 10 m of water depth. A watch is therefore subjected to one additional bar for
every 10 m of diving depth (quod vide pressure resistance and water-resistance).
1 bar corresponds roughly to the weight of 1 kg per cm (1 bar = 10 N/cm). The precise value depends on the
location on Earth. The gravitational acceleration varies between 9.78 and 9.83 m/s Taking the mean value (9.81) as
the basis, 1 bar corresponds to a weight of 1019.4 g per cm .

Black Hard Coating

A hard TiAlCN (titanium-aluminium-carbonitrite) coating, applied using a so-called PVD process. This layer has a
surfacehardness of more than 2000 HV.
See Sinn Technology Black Hard Coating.

calibre
Another word for a movement.
The term is usually used in connection with a numerical movement name such as Calibre ETA 7750, for example.
Unlike calibre information in weapons technology, in watchmaking the term calibre has nothing to do with the size of
the movement.

captive bezel
Outer bezel with a special design to prevent it from being lost.
Bezels are conventionally attached to the body of the case using a snap-in mechanism. If knocked, the ring can, in
the worst case, become detached and the set time lost. Many our watches are therefore fitted with a safety system
which overcomes this design weakness.

captive safety bezel

The captive safety bezel in the U1000 diver's chronograph also includes a further safety feature besides its captive
design: rotation protection. See Sinn Technology: Captive Safety Bezel.

chronograph
A chronograph is a timepiece with a stop mechanism which can be used to time the length of a particular procedure.

chronometer quality
Conditions which movements must meet to fulfill the chronometer standard.
Watches or movements with particularly accurate running, confirmed by an official certificate, are designated
chronometers. Chronometer movements have to be given a serial number to ensure that the certificate and the
movement can be uniquely matched. Chronometer tests are currently carried out and documented almost exclusively
by the C.O.S.C. (Contrle Officiel Suisse des Chronomtres, an independent public-service organization in
Switzerland). Just recently, however, the Landesamt fr Me- und Eichwesen Thringen (Thuringian State Office for
Measurement and Calibration) in Glashtte has started offering chronometer tests as the accreditation office of the
German Calibration Service in Germany.
The chronometer quality of a mechanical watch movement is determined in part by the special workmanship of
certain movement components, partly by precise regulation of the watch. We only use the highest quality products
provided by Swiss movement manufacturers in Sinn watches. Basically all these movements can be regulated as
chronometers. If desired, our watches can be given a fine-adjustment, i.e. they are of chronometer quality, but are
supplied without a certificate.
The specifications of a mechanical chronometer movement include a number of rate accuracy aspects: e.g. the effect
of position on the rate, the stability of the rate in each individual position and the temperature dependency of the rate.
There is an international standard (ISO 3159) for mechanical movements which correspond to national standard
systems (DIN 8319, part 1 and NIHS 95-11).
Because the accuracy of a mechanical watch generally depends on its spatial orientation in the Earth's field of
gravity, five test positions for observing the escapement are distinguished (e.g. "dial top", "dial bottom" etc.). The
mean of the accuracy values measured in the five test positions should remain within a range of -4 to +6 seconds per
day (24 hours) at room temperature (23C). This standard, by itself, is not particularly exacting and would probably
be fulfilled by any modern mass-production caliber. However, a chronometer movement must also achieve this mean
value with no appreciable accuracy differences between the individual positions. The largest accuracy difference
between an upright and horizontal position (more precisely: between "crown left" and "dial top") should be no more
than -6 to +8 seconds per day. For the remaining positions: each individual position value should not differ from the
average of all five positions by more than 10 seconds per day.
Further demands are placed on the stability of the accuracy in each individual test position. The watch should not
deviate by more than 5 seconds per day in any given position (at a constant temperature of 23C). The mean of the
deviations observed in the individual test positions should also be no greater than 2 seconds per day. Critical
demands are also placed on the temperature dependency of the watchs accuracy. The watchs accuracy is tested
within a temperature range of 8C to 38C. The deviation per degree Celsius and day should not exceed +/- 0.6
seconds. Finally there is a test to ensure that the watch regains its accuracy at 23C, after the temperature change.
In a given test position, the accuracy may not differ from the mean accuracy in this position measured before the
temperature change by more than +/- 5 seconds per day.
In chronograph movements, the accuracy difference is checked with the stop function turned on and off. All accuracy
measurements are carried out without the use of an electronic timing machine, i.e. the time is read off directly after
24 hours as measured on a test dial. The entire chronometer test takes a total of 15 days.
Up to now there has been no international standard (ISO) for quartz chronometers. In the meantime, the technical
possibilities of series production have overtaken the requirements of the Swiss and German standard systems (see
e.g. DIN standard 8319, part 2, from 1978). In 2001 the Swiss testing organization C.O.S.C. therefore formulated
new criteria for its own testing practice. This placed more stringent requirements on quartz chronometer movements.
The test criteria are designed so that quartz movements without special temperature compensationcannot pass the
test. Based on these criteria, the daily average accuracy of a quartz chronometer should be between +/- 0.07

seconds per day at 23C, and within a range of +/- 0.20 seconds per day at both 8C and 38C. The stability of the
running accuracy at a set temperature is limited to 0.05 seconds. The test is conducted for a total of 12 days.
On account of its temperature compensation, a quartz chronometer is roughly twenty times more accurate than a
high-quality quartz movement adjusted to room temperature, and represents the most accurate autonomously
running wristwatch currently available. In our diving watches UX we use the thermocompensated ETA 955.652
movement with a quartz frequency of slightly over 32 kHz. Quartz movements with even higher running accuracy are
technically possible in the form of megahertz oscillating quartz crystals, but only small numbers of them were made
for a limited period due to the high manufacturing costs.

D3-System
In our D3-System watches, the push-piece pins and crown shafts are mounted directly in a fine-finished case
aperture, creating a perfect seal to the case.
In conventional designs, the push-piece pin and crown shaft are mounted in the case hole inside a tube insert. The
required tube seal not only represents an additional potential source of gas diffusion (see Ar-Dehumidifying
Technology), but careless handling can also lead to loss of water resistance with this design. This is because the
push-piece pin and the crown shaft can bend in the tube if exposed to lateral knocks, permitting moisture to
penetrate. This is a risk which also exists in screwable crowns and push-pieces when they are unscrewed to make
an adjustment.
The D3-System permits the crown and push-piece to be integrated in the case, providing reliable protection from
lateral knocks and the penetration of dust or moisture.

Damascus steel
A composite material which is known primarily for its use in knife making. The special characteristic of this material is
brought out by surface etching, which reveals an organic pattern of light and dark stripes.
The etching pattern normally used on Damascus steel highlights the stratified composition of the material, which is
made up of at least two different types of steel. A Damascus steel block is traditionally forged by repeatedly folding
and stretching a package of layered steel plates made of different types of steel. The individual steel layers are forgewelded. After a work piece has been welded, forged and hardened, the typical Damascus pattern created by these
processes is revealed by surface etching. The two types of steel are heavily corroded in an acid bath. This causes
the strata between the more resistant steel layers to wear more quickly so that it becomes rough and takes on a
darker grey tone. This gives rise to the typical Damascus steel texture, which most resembles a wood grain, but can
also take the form of more unusual patterns (when the material is twisted during forging, for example).
A Damascus steel created using this traditional process is not suitable for use in a watch case, because the steels
needed for the process lack corrosion resistance. Knives manufactured using this process, for example, have to be
cleaned and oiled after each use to protect them against corrosion. High-quality stainless steels which meet the
requirement of high corrosion resistance do not have the necessary forge-weldability.
New developments in materials technology offer a solution to the problem of combining a composite-steel material
(Damascus steel) with corrosion-resistant steels. The solution is a powder-metallurgical process whereby different
steels are first layered in the form of powder and then undergo cold and hot isostatic pressing. During this process,
the metal powder is heated to just below its melting point and undergoes hot isostatic pressing at very high pressure
until it forms a dense, blowhole-free steel block. Because the reforging process is not needed, this process can also
be used to combine high-quality stainless steels to create a Damascus steel.
Watch cases are directly and permanently exposed to the corrosive effects of perspiration. For this reason, we
decided to use a combination of stainless steels to produce the case material of our 1800 model, with corrosion
resistance almost as high as the other steels we use for our cases. Finally, the work piece also undergoes our tried
and tested tegimenting process. In this regard, the stainless steel composite resembles traditional Damascus steels,
which are also hardened using a heat treatment.
Another point to note is that the dial on this model is not designed as a separate component, as is customary;
instead, the dial and central part of the case are milled from a complete steel block. This means that the Damascus
pattern on the dial continues across the entire case, creating an organic whole.

Deck watches
The deck watch a portable watch with readability and precision tailored to navigational purposes.
The history of B-Uhren, or deck watches, began when they were first used as timekeeping equipment on ships.
Once it was possible to make watches that could provide sufficient accuracy at sea, the navigational determination of
the longitude was based on the difference between the true local time astronomically determined on the ship and the
time taken along on the voyage from a harbour (this equated to the time at the harbours known longitude). The
difference was determined by synchronising a marine chronometer permanently installed on the ship with the harbour

time. Smaller, portable precision watches were therefore required for two reasons. Firstly, the precise harbour time
had to be transported from the nearest observatory to the marine chronometer. Secondly, to conduct astronomical
observations at sea, the time on the marine chronometer had to be frequently compared with the time astronomically
determined on deck. These tasks were performed by deck watches, which combined a high level of precision with
clear readability and, above all, easy portability. The classic deck watch was similar in format to a pocket watch, but
slightly larger. At sea, the deck watch would be set to the true local time once or twice a day by observing the sun or
other celestial bodies, and the difference between this time and the time on the marine chronometer would then be
used to calculate the longitude currently reached.
In the 20th century, a large number of deck watches were made for the military sector. In 1940, the Deutsche
Wehrwirtschaftsamt (German Office of Military Economics) forced several well-known manufacturers to produce
navigation wristwatches which had to fulfil special requirements established by the Reichsluftfahrtministerium
(German Ministry of Aviation). Because the specifications included a narrowly defined model (the company name
was not even allowed to feature on the dial), a standardised design emerged during this period. To this day, pilot and
deck watches are still based on this historical standard design.
The watches had a standard diameter of 55 mm. From 1941 onwards, there was a prescribed dial pattern with a
minute scale from 5 to 55 and an inner circle with an hour scale from 1 to 12. Instead of the 60 minute marker, this
dial features an eye-catching triangle to make the watchs orientation clear and ensure that it can be quickly and
reliably read.

DIAPAL
Sinn trademark: Used for watches featuring DIAPAL Technology.

DIN 8330
At the suggestion and with the help of Sinn Spezialuhren, TESTAFwas used shortly after its completion by the
German Institute for Standardisation to develop a new standard for pilot watches DIN 8330 "Timekeeping Technology
- Pilot watches" for the first time.
Please refer to:DIN_8330_pilot_watches.

divers bezel
A minute-clicking bezel which can only be rotated on one side to prevent accidental adjustment. It should also be
possible to set a divers bezel when wearing gloves. Besides the main marking (e.g. luminous triangle) there may
also be a minutes scale running clockwise.

diving equipment standard

Diving equipment, such as diving cylinders and breathing apparatus approved in accordance with European norms
EN 250:2000 or EN14143:2003, is subjected to various tests to ensure that it functions correctly at low temperatures
and in high humidity.
In 2006 we commissioned Germanische Lloyd Hamburg to adapt these standards to wristwatches. Our diving
watches were then for the first time formally accepted as integral pieces of diving equipment and tested as such.
The tests are repeated at regular intervals and the results documented as a means of ensuring consistently high
quality.

diving watch
Watches specially built for diving which, in compliance with DIN, have to fulfill a range of requirements in addition to
being water- and pressure-resistant.
Our diving watches meet the safety requirements and pass the tests stipulated in DIN 8306. This contains the
following test criteria:
Readability
Accuracy
Antimagnetism
Shock-resistance
Fastening elements
Air tight under high pressure
Saltwater resistance
Scale setting ring or divers bezel
Functional reliability of control features

 Functional reliability of diving watch under high water pressure

Resilience to temperature stress
Perfect functioning of crowns, push-pieces and similar control features
Watertight under high water pressure
Sinn attaches a great deal of importance to observing the prescribed requirements, and Sinn watches are often relied
upon to withstand long-term professional use.

DNV GL Certifies Diving Watches

DNV GL provides technical testing and certification as well as software and independent advisory services to the
energy, oil and gas, and maritime industries. See Tests and Certifications: DNV GL certifies Sinn Diving Watches

EDR seals
Name of sealing materials which have much greater diffusion-inhibiting properties than the conventional case sealing
material (nitrile rubber, (NBR)). With these seals, the diffusion rate from inside the case to the air outside is reduced
by up to 75 % in comparison to conventional nitrile seals.
EDR seal materials also offer further benefits. They are exceptionally weather and ageing-resistant and, in contrast to
nitrile rubber, are not prone to ozone cracking. EDR seals are also resistant to numerous chemicals such as
chlorinated, aromatic or aliphatic hydrocarbons.
The ageing processes in the movement depend largely on the microclimate in the case, meaning that EDR seals
represent an effective Ar-Dehumidifying Technology component for ensuring greater accuracy over a longer period of
time.

electronic timing machine

An instrument which measures a watchs accuracy acoustically (i.e. from its ticking) and uses this to extrapolate the
standard unit of seconds per day.
The isochronal error and amplitude can be read off directly. A timing machine will also break down the processes
which occur in an individual beat, or oscillation, and show them in graphic form. The instrument can therefore be
used for a range of diagnostic purposes.
The measured results of the watchs rate, however, are always snapshots taken under laboratory conditions. For
this reason, we also take each owners individual movements into account when making a specific regulator
correction.

epilam
Thin layer of a perfluorinated plastic (e.g. Teflon) which is applied to certain parts of the escapement to prevent the
watch oil from liquefying. An epilam coating is oil-repellent.

escapement
The part of a watch movement which periodically inhibits uncontrolled running of the tensioned gear train, thereby
ensuring smooth running.
The escapement also supplies new energy to the oscillation system (hairspring), compensating the inevitable friction
losses. Modern watches generally contain the Swiss anchor escapement. This works on the principle of an anchor
interacting with an escape wheel. The escape wheel intervenes directly in the seconds wheel, onto the shaft of which
the seconds hand is fastened. The to-and-fro oscillation of the balance causes the anchor to rock back and forth. As
a result it periodically intervenes with its ruby pallets in the escape wheel, blocking its rotation for a short period,
before releasing it again for a short time (during the rocking motion). In one second, therefore, there are eight small
steps of the seconds hand (at a half-oscillation rate of 28,800/h).
The Swiss anchor escapement is a proven design. However it requires lubrication to ensure proper functioning.
Ageing of the oil is particularly apparent on the escapement. This is why SINN developed DIAPAL Technology. It
permits the escapement to work without oil.

EZM
Sinn trademark: Used for Einsatzzeitmesser (Mission Timer).

fluorescence
The luminescence phenomenon exploited by daylight luminouspaints.

Ordinary paints reflect some of the sunlight or artificial light falling upon them, making them visible to the human eye.
In addition to simply reflecting light, daylight luminous paints, by contrast, also emit light, giving these paints their
characteristic brightness. The effect is familiar from highlighter pens.
Fluorescent paints only emit this extra light when they are exposed to a light source. Tiny afterglow effects (lasting
millionths of a second) which occur as a result of fluorescence cannot be perceived by the eye. By contrast,
the luminous paints used to make the dials, hands or luminous triangle glow in the dark exploit the effect
of phosphorescence.

flying spring barrel

A spring Barrel supported on one side.

galvanising
Electrolytic depositing of thin metallic layers for ornamental refinement of surfaces or for corrosion protection. During
galvanising an electrically conductive workpiece (or one which has been made conductive) is coated with a thin layer
of a different material. This takes place in a special immersion bath, using an electric current. Copper, nickel, silver or
gold coatings are created electrolytically from the corresponding metallic salts (copper, nickel, silver salts). Sulphuric
acid solutions of chromic acid anhydride are used, by contrast, to generate a shiny chrome finish.
If you dissolve a silver salt in water and pass an electrical current through the solution, the silver ions in the silver salt
will migrate to the cathode (negative terminal) of the power source and be deposited there as neutral silver atoms
(after being reduced). Objects being galvanised are therefore connected to the negative terminal of a power source,
i.e. they are submersed as the cathode in the aqueous solution. The longer the treatment in the immersion bath is
carried out, the thicker the galvanically created coating.
To keep the ion concentration at a constant level in the solution, an anode (positive terminal, or target) made from
the coating material (e.g. silver) is used. It gradually dissolves during the galvanisation process and must therefore
be replaced from time to time.
Conventionally created galvanic coats are relatively soft and are therefore susceptible to scratches and knocks.
However there are other techniques which can be used to create gold plating with a surface hardness of up to 380
HV. We mainly use galvanically applied layers as means of refining dials and interior bezels. This method produces
superior decorative brilliance in comparison to varnishing, and is distinguished by its exceptional UV colour fastness
(ageing resistance).

Glucydur
This is the name of a beryllium bronze suitable for use as the material of the balance wheel in a chronometerenabled (seeChronometer) escapement.
Ordinary metallic materials such as steel or brass used in movement construction expand so much at higher
temperatures that the balance wheels (see balance) moment of inertia would change significantly. This has a direct
impact on the speed of the watch. It is for this reason that the balance wheel is made from beryllium bronze in highquality complete balances. The temperature error, which still occurs, is compensated for by abalance spring made
from Nivarox.
Other possible material choices for the balance wheel are technical ceramics. Due to the elaborate processing they
require, however, they are not often found on the market.

GMT
Greenwich Mean Time. The astronomically defined local time in Greenwich which was adopted as world time.
GMT was established at the so-called "Meridian Conference" held on 1 October 1884 in Washington. On that day 25
countries agreed upon a binding time zone regulation to provide help to international shipping in particular. Ever
since, the Earth has been divided into 24 time zones; adjacent zones differ by exactly one hour (apart from a few
exceptional cases). The zero meridian runs through Greenwich (near London). This time zone was defined as the
standard world time, GMT or Greenwich Mean Time.
The individual times were defined as astronomical local times, meaning that GMT, in contrast to UTC, is an
astronomically based time. One second was defined as one 86400th of the mean solar day, and 12:00 o'clock noon
as the sun's highest point. Starting from zero, the meridians are numbered in ascending order to the east and the
west, up to the 180 meridian. The 180th degree of longitude divides two days from one another, which is why it is
also known as the dateline.
In practice, however, this theoretical zone division is not actually adhered to. Whereas Russia, for example, is divided
into several time zones, China only uses one single zone although it stretches over roughly 60 degrees of longitude.
The time zone in which a country lies, and how many time zones it covers, are also political decisions.

The letters GMT or UTC on watches indicate that a second time zone can be read off.

hairspring
A spiral-shaped, coiled, flat wire which, together with the balance, forms the oscillation system of a mechanical
wristwatch. Modern wristwatches generally contain flat coils with 12 to 15 windings, i.e. all the coils are in a single
plane. In addition, most hairsprings are made of a metallic alloy called Nivarox.
The hairspring is fixed to the rotation axis of the balance and provides the decelerating and accelerating forces
required to make the balance wheel oscillate evenly to and fro. The energy lost through friction is applied in pulses by
the escapement.

Hairspring (here Breguet overcoil).

hardness
Hardness is a bodys resistance to penetration by another.
Mohs Hardness Scale, shows the score out of minerals from the following:

Hardness is measured using various methods based on different scales (Vickers, Rockwell etc.). The Mohs
hardness scale was often used in the past for many purposes. However, it is very imprecise, as the entire hardness
range is represented by values between 1 and 10. The most common methods used today are the Vickers, Rockwell
and Brinell hardness test methods. All of these are penetration methods in which a small test object (e.g. a diamond
pyramid) is pressed at a defined pressure into the test surface. The hardness can then be determined from the depth
or the area of the resulting impression. One of the first form of hardness mesurement was the Mohs hardness scale,
a relative scratch resistance scale, devised by mineralogist Friedrich Mohs (1773 to 1839).
The Mohs hardness scale is a relative hardness scale from 1 to 10. It was specially devised to rate minerals. The
scale is based on the following principle: if two minerals cannot scratch each other, they are both said to have the
same hardness. If a mineral cannot be scratched by one mineral on the scale, but can be scratched by the next
hardest mineral, then its Mohs hardnesslies between the two hardness figures of the relevant minerals. At one end of
the scale is diamond, with a value of 10, and at the other end is talcum.
The Mohs hardness scale is imprecise and non-linear in comparison to the Vickers scale. The difference in hardness

between corundum and diamond is up to 8000 Vickers. On theMohs hardness scale, however, the difference in
hardness carries a value of one. By contrast, minerals with Vickers hardness levels which are much closer together,
such as quartz and corundum, are separated by two points on the Mohs scale.
For this reason the Mohs hardness scale is not used for material specifications. It is, however, a useful tool for
classifying minerals.
The Vickers hardness test is a common method for determining the hardness of a material. This measuring process
involves pressing a small diamond pyramid into the object being tested using different loads.
The diagonal length of the resulting impressions are measured to generate an average; this figure is used to
determine the hardness.
Examples of different degrees of hardness:
Stainless steel: approx. 200240 HV
Titanium Grade 2: approx. 210 HV
Titanium Grade 5: approx. 350 HV
Hardened mineral glass: approx. 800900 HV
Sapphire crystal glass: approx. 2,000 HV
Diamond: > 4,50010,000 HV

HYDRO
See Sinn Technology HYDRO.

ice hardening
Part of the heat treatment process used to alter the material characteristics of certain types of steel by "quenching"
them at low temperatures.
The term "ice hardening" was originally coined due to the use of ice water, however this form of rapid chilling is
carried out today in a vacuum or in liquid gases, typically at a temperature of -80 C. Only special grades of steel are
suitable for ice hardening and for thermal hardening techniques in general. Steel processing traditionally involves a
number of such hardening processes, for example in the manufacture of knife blades. The (martensitic) steels
concerned are not generally corrosion-resistant and require special care.
However, modern developments have given rise to types of steel which exhibit considerable corrosion resistance
after being subjected to this hardening process. In 2002 the first series of our Duochronograph 756 was made from
just such a type of steel which had been subjected to ice hardening.
In 2003 the ice hardening method was replaced by TEGIMENTTechnology for two reasons: firstly because the
corrosion resistance caused by the ice hardening deteriorated on contact with perspiration and salt water, and
secondly because the treated parts had a strong tendency to become magnetised, which can have a negative impact
on movement components which are vital to the watch's correct functioning.
The TEGIMENT Technology process is used on non-magnetisable high-grade stainless steel to increase the
corrosion resistance. It also improves the surface hardness, which is crucial for optimised scratch-resistance.

IFR
Instrument flight rules
In aviation, there is a distinction between visual and instrument flight rules (see VFR). Visual orientation (where
possible) is not avoided in practice for instrument flights. But the entire principle of this method of flight is
fundamentally divorced from reference to external points (excepting take-off and landing). Instead, flight manoeuvres
during instrument flights are based on the flight deck instruments and on coordination with air traffic control on the
ground. A detailed flight plan must also be provided for instrument flights, which must be given to air traffic control
before departure.
Due to the absence of visual orientation, instrument flights largely do not depend on weather and time of day. This is
why the planned schedules of commercial flights are essentially based on IFR. There is a regulation in Europe as to
which conditions require commercial flights to fly under IFR or VFR. Approval from the country-specific regulatory
authority must be acquired in each individual case.
In TESTAF, the demands made on wristwatches change with the flight rules. For instrument flights,
a chronograph function is required in addition to the rotating bezel, which facilitates the execution of short-timed flight
manoeuvres.

inhibition cycle
Correction interval in quartz movements.
A range of different techniques has been used in different developments to optimize the accuracy of quartz

movements. In the past manufacturers tried to produce the quartz as precisely as possible, to grind it or to set the
precise oscillation frequency by depositing layers of vaporized gold and then removing it by laser. Today, quartz
crystals are ground in such a way to produce a significant gain in the movement. This gain is then measured in each
individual movement at room temperature. Subsequently the movement is programmed so that the gain is corrected
every one to four minutes (depending on the caliber). The movement is briefly paused to compensate for the gain of
the quartz oscillation.
In quartz chronometer movements there is also temperature compensation. The temperature sensor on the
movement plate then helps to determine the current temperature in the watch and to calculate a correction value
accordingly. The correction value which is applied once the inhibition cycle is complete is therefore not constant in
quartz chronometer movements; rather it is continually adjusted in line with the current movement temperature.

isochronal error
Asymmetrical oscillation of the balance.
The rotary oscillation of a balance can be described as an angle of rotation. When the watch stops, the halted
position of thebalance defines its home position. A (constant) isochronal error is when the rotary oscillation is not
executed entirely symmetrically around the home position in all test positions, i.e. the balanceoscillates to different
extents in each direction. This asymmetry can be made visible using a timing machine. Isochronal error is measured
in milliseconds (ms). Sinn only permits a maximum isochronal error of 0.7 ms. High-quality watches possess a
special device for adjusting the isochronal error.

lines
A unit of length by which the diameter of Swiss movements has traditionally been and still is measured.
The line as a unit of length was introduced to Swiss watchmaking as the Paris line, a French unit of measurement,
for the purposes of documentation in the context of the international watch trade. It has been used as the traditional
unit of measurement for movement diameters ever since.
A line is 2.256 mm.

low pressure resistant

The compression resistance of a water-resistant watch is always related to the increased external pressure that
would be experienced in the form of a column of water pressing down onto the watch case, whereas high-altitude
resistance is related to reduced external pressure as encountered at high altitude above sea level. If the pressure
outside the watch case falls, the difference between the pressure inside and outside the case acts as a force pushing
from the inside out. Special design features have to be incorporated to ensure that the glass cannot escape from its
press fit.

luminescence
Type of light radiation which is not caused by the temperature-specific thermal radiation of a body.
The sun or the coiled filament of a conventional light bulb emit light as the result of their being at a sufficiently high
temperature, whereas in luminescent substances it is other processes which generate light by "cold" means. Two
variations of luminescence which are of significance for technical applications
arephosphorescence and fluorescence. In both cases, the "cold" radiation of light, i.e. luminescence, is caused by
the incidence of an appropriate form of artificial light or sunlight. The underlying effects are closely related and can
only be distinguished by referring to complex physical phenomena. However, given that phosphorescent pigments
are designed to glow for longer periods (hours) whereas fluorescent pigments are not, it can be said in simple terms
that daylight luminous paints are the product of fluorescence, whereas afterglow effects are basically caused
by phosphorescence.

luminous paint
A coating for watch dials and hands, enabling them to be read in the dark.
In the past the main luminous paint used was radioactive tritium(H). Today inactive luminous paints such
as Superluminova are used almost exclusively. These are charged by the incidence of light and exhibit a temporary
luminous effect (phosphorescence). Daylight luminous paints (fluorescence) are used in individual cases
(e.g. EZM 10, NaBo).

Magnetic Field Protection

Watch case which shields against magnetic fields. See Sinn Technology Magnetic Field Protection.

magnetism
Forces which can commonly be observed in the form of magnetized objects attracting and repelling each other.
Possible source of interference in a watchs action.
Magnetic fields are encountered with ever-increasing frequency in our environment. Whereas the Earths magnetic
field does not constitute a risk, magnetic fields from loudspeakers, door closers, locks etc. can have a lasting effect
on the action of a mechanical watch. In a survey of almost 1000 watches carried out by SINNs customer service
department, roughly 60% of these proved to be magnetized, and half of these, i.e. 30% of the total, exhibited strong
magnetic field errors. In some cases the accuracy errors could be corrected by demagnetizing them.
The main source of magnetic field errors lies in a magnetizedNivarox hairspring, i.e. the timing organ of the
watch. Nivaroxhairsprings are far superior to older steel springs with regard to magnetic field sensitivity,
as Nivarox springs are antimagnetic(DIN 8309). However this requirement permits an error margin of +/- 30 seconds
per day under exposure to relatively weak magnetic fields. This, though, is not compatible
with chronometerstandards.

Mission Timer
Mission Timers (Einsatzzeitmesser or EZM) are watches which have been specially developed for a particular
purpose. They always offer excellent readability. This means: the form is always dictated by the function and handling
requirements.

The legendary EZM1 was the first in a successful line of mission timers.

Mohs Hardness Scale

see hardness

NaBo
Sinn trademark, standing for navigation cockpit clocks. Navigation cockpit clocks are intended for installation in
aircraft cockpits.

nickel
Chemical element: a hard, silver-white metal obtained primarily from magnetic pyrites.
Nickel is an important alloy component in many types of steel. The nickel content in these is between 9 and 18%.
Nickel steel is exceptionally hard and robust. It is used for tools and for military purposes (armor plate, gun barrels).
Combined with chromium it produces highly corrosion-resistant chromium-nickel steel. Some people have an allergic

reaction to it if it comes in contact with their skin.

nickel silver (ARCAP)

An alloy made of copper, nickel and zinc.
This material has been dubbed nickel silver due to its silvery appearance. It does not contain any silver, but has
been purposely developed to look like silver.
Nickel silver is an excellent material, characterised by high strength and corrosion resistance. It is traditionally used
to make instruments, cutlery and precision equipment.

nickel-free metals and nickel release

Euro standard 1811 was implemented in German law in 2000, aimed at avoiding nickel allergies. This standard
defines and regulates nickel release.
Nickel release is basically a measure of the release of nickel into the skin. The emission of nickel can result in allergic
reactions. The standard stipulates that no more than 0.5 g of nickel may be released per square centimeter of skin
per week. This limit may not be exceeded by any product coming into direct and long-term contact with the skin.
The level of nickel release is not determined by the nickel content of a metal, rather by its corrosion resistance. Only
through corrosion processes can nickel escape from a steel alloy in the form of ions or complexes. In highly
corrosion-resistant steel, thenickel therefore remains stably bonded in the steel even if it has a relatively
high nickel content. For example, stainless steelcontaining nickel (content 12.5% to 15%) is used even in medical
implants, without any allergic reactions being observed. At Sinn we also use this same grade of steel (DIN 1.4435).
Its nickelrelease is 50 times lower than the value prescribed by EURO standard 1811. This corresponds to 2%.
There are also grades of steel with a residual nickel content of less than 0.2%. This, however, is merely the impurity
traces ofnickel measurable in all types of stainless steel and not an alloy component. In this case and also in the
case of special case backs offered by Sinn, we therefore refer to nickel-free steel although strictly speaking it is nonnickel-alloyed steel.

Nivarox
Metallic alloy used to make superfine hairsprings.
This alloy solves to a great extent the problem of temperature-related changes to the elasticity and length of
the hairspring and the balance. As the temperature rises, a metallic spring generally becomes softer and longer; the
diameter of a metallic ring (balance) also increases slightly. However, such a change in the material characteristics
would cause the balance to oscillate more slowly, and therefore the watch to lose time. Nivarox is the name (derived
from the German terms for "non-variable" and "oxide-resistant") of the most common type of alloy used to make
temperature-compensating (or auto-compensating) hairsprings. This material solves the problem of temperature
sensitivity in two ways. Firstly a Nivarox spring only changes its length and elasticity to a relatively small extent within
the temperature range stipulated by the chronometer norms. Secondly, the remaining temperature effect is
compensated by processes inside the spring itself (hence the term "auto-compensating"). These compensatory
processes stem from the magneto-strictive properties of nickel an element which appears in Nivarox springs as an
alloy component.
Magneto-strictive interaction takes place in certain conditions in (ferro-) magnetic objects. Such objects have an
internal magnetic field structure which is not necessarily apparent as an external magnetic field, as the internal fields
of the magnetic domains (Weiss domains) cancel each other out. The objects are therefore in a constant state of
internal magnetization. What is decisive is that the predominant magnetic field structure depends on the temperature
of the object and that a change in this structure due to magneto-strictive interaction causes elastic tension in the
object, i.e. deforms it, which then neutralizes this tension.
This link between elastic tension and a magnetic field is also known as magneto-striction. Two aspects are important
here: Firstly a change in temperature, as explained, always has the effect of altering the magnetization status and
therefore the internal tension of the spring. Secondly, the direction of the magneto-strictive effect is the exact
opposite of the temperature response of ordinary materials.
This means that, as the temperature rises, the magneto-strictive interaction causes the spring to harden and shorten.
In watches with Nivarox coil springs, these two factors combined cause the rate of the balance system to remain
largely constant despite any change in temperature. If the temperature does rise, two effects cancel each other out to
a certain extent: the magneto-strictive hardening and shortening of the spring counteracts the usual temperaturerelated slackening and extension of the spring and the increased inertia of the balance wheel.
A Nivarox I coil in combination with a glucydur balance therefore yields a (primary) temperature error of less than half
a second per degree Celsius per day.
However, the basic principle of this temperature compensation the use of ferromagnetic materials leads to
susceptibility to external magnetic field influences, as other magnetic fields can of course change the magnetization

status of the spring, and hence its elasticity, in addition to the temperature. This can cause considerable rate
deviations up to and including complete stoppage of the watch (see magnetism).

non-magnetic
Unsusceptible to the influence of magnetic fields up to a defined strength.
Strictly speaking, no material is completely unaffected by magnetic fields. Materials or objects are described as nonmagnetic if they react so minimally to magnetic fields that sensitive instruments are needed in order to detect any
effect. For all practical purposes, materials such as glass or some types of steel can be rated non-magnetic.

orientation pointer
The 24-hour pointer, shaped in the form of an arrow, is intended to help calculate the compass direction.
When the current position of the sun is visible, a 24-hour pointer, which runs synchronously with the 12-hour hand,
makes it easier to determine the approximate direction. In the Northern hemisphere, if the dial is oriented horizontally
and the watch turned so that the 12-hour hand (ignoring daylight savings time!) points to the sun, then the 24-hour
pointer will point North. In the Southern hemisphere, North and South should be exchanged.
It should be borne in mind that, depending on the time of year and the parallel and meridian, the calculated
geographical North may deviate by up to 25.

ornamental movements
Decoratively refined movement, e.g. featuring ornamental grinding, mirror finish, engraving, galvanic surface
refinement or special components.
Regardless of its technical design quality, the aesthetic appeal of any movement can be enhanced through various
decorative features. Bridges and plates offer scope for engraving or skeletonisation and can also be given
ornamental grinding features (e.g. sun, stripes or clouds).
Instead of conventional nickel-plating of the brass bridges and plates, a galvanic rhodium coating (a metal from the
platinum group) or a colouring metal compound can be applied. Screw heads can be polished, varnished blue or
turned blue through tempering. Simple edges can be transformed through angling (to create a chamfer). Milled ring
grooves around visible bearing jewels create the impression of a bearing lining (Chaton) in places where the goldcoloured substrate is exposed in a rhodium-plated bridge.

phosphorescence
The luminescence phenomenon upon which afterglow luminouspaints are based.
Ordinary paints reflect some of the sunlight or artificial light falling upon them, making them visible to the human eye.
The luminouspigments in phosphorescent paints are charged up by being exposed to light; they then function
themselves as a light source for several hours afterwards. This effect is used, for example, to highlight escape routes
in buildings during a power failure or to ensure that watch dials or numerals can be read in the dark.
Phosphorescence is not based on radioactivity. The materials used are non-toxic and, in contrast to
radioactive luminous paints, do not lose their ability to glow even after longer periods of time. The
afterglow luminous paints we use are supplied bySuperluminova. These have been specially developed for use in
watches and their length of afterglow and intensity are constantly being improved.

pilot watches
The term pilot watch is used in literature and by watch manufacturers in an inconsistent and unclear way. The
general understanding is that a pilot watch is characterised by certain traditional design features such as a blackand-white dial with a striking, triangular 12 oclock marking.
At SINN, too, we provide the clearest possible readability for pilot watches. In addition, the sapphire crystal watch
glass in all SINN pilot watches must be capable of withstanding negative pressure of up to 0.2 bar. This corresponds
to a flying altitude of approx. 12,000 metres.
Together with SINN, the flight lab at Aachen University of Applied Sciences launched a technical standard (TESTAF)
for the professional use of wristwatches in aviation, which contains a precise list of requirements and sets out an
appropriate certification procedure.
The first watches to be TESTAF-certified were the SINNchronographs EZM10 TESTAF, 103 Ti UTC TESTAF, 103
TiTESTAF. The pilot watches 857 UTC TESTAF and 857 UTCTESTAF LH Cargo followed in 2013, and
the EZM 9 TESTAF in 2014.

pilots bezel
A bezel that is generally rotatable in two directions and may have minute ratcheting.
In addition to the main markings, a minute scale may be applied either clockwise or anticlockwise (count-down
numbering). A pilots bezel should be operable whilst wearing gloves. ForTESTAF, a bezel rotatable in two directions
with at least one luminescent marker is compulsory both for visual flight rules aviation as well as instrument flight
rules aviation.

Powder-metallurgical production processes

Processes used to manufacture metallic finished components or blanks, whereby metal powder and a mould is used
instead of solid material.
Normally, the production of metal components involves machining semi-finished products such as solid poles or
plates. The end product is gradually carved out of these raw materials using milling machines and lathes.
In a powder-metallurgical process, on the other hand, the raw material is a fine powder (or powder mixture made up
of different metallic components). The typical grain size is less than 0.5 mm. First of all, the powder is pressed into a
mould and compressed at such high pressure that the grains fuse together and usually also due to the intense
friction between them undergo cold welding. A so-called green compact is formed, which is still visibly grainy in
texture. At the second stage, the green compact undergoes a sintering process. It is heated until it is close to melting
point. Wherever the grains touch, the diffusion of metal atoms creates a permanent bond between the grains.
Finally, the remaining porosity in the work piece can be eliminated either by hot isostatic pressing, by immersion in
molten metal or by hot rolling.
The process is particularly suitable for producing moulded parts from hard metal (where the level of resistance is too
high for turning and milling). In our 1800 S Damascus model, the process is used to create steel strips out of
stainless Damascus steel. The steel qualities necessary for corrosion resistance can withstand the traditional process
of folding and forge-welding.

pressure-resistance
According to DIN, the pressure resistance of a water-resistant watch describes the pressure load which a watch can
withstand.
In Sinn watches, the pressure resistance is generally given in baror in diving-depth meters. One bar of pressure
corresponds to the static pressure of a 10-meter head of water.

pulsimeter scale
The pulsimeter or respiration scale is a scale with a base of 15. It permits pulse or breathing rates to be read off after
stopping the time required for 15 pulses or breaths. For example: 15 heartbeats in ten seconds equals a pulse rate of
90 beats per minute; or 15 breaths in 36 seconds represents a respiration rate of 25 breaths per minute. This
procedure can also be used to determine other units on a per-minute basis. Simply measure the time needed for 15
units, and then read off the units per minute.

Combination of a tachymeter/pulsometer scale on a 144 St DIAPALwatch

PVD
PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) refers to a group of processes used to apply thin layers of hard material to an
object. The coating material is initially provided as a solid. It is then vaporized or atomized and subsequently
deposited on the substrate, with no change to its chemical composition. The main advantage of PVD lies in their
relatively low deposition temperatures. This permits a wide range of materials to be used for coating.
The surface hardness of PVD coats is 2000 to 3000 HV, depending on the type of coating. It is therefore significantly
higher than that of galvanically applied chrome plating. The possible coat thicknesses start at the nanometer level

and can be built up to several micrometers.

A negative effect arises if such thin hard material coats are applied to untempered materials such as stainless
steel ortitanium (180 to 220 HV). Knocks and scratches give rise to the so-called eggshell effect on account of the
difference in hardnessbetween the hard material coat and the base material. The coating collapses, exposing the
different color of the material beneath.
At Sinn we only use hard material coats in combination withTEGIMENT for this reason. TEGIMENT has
a hardness of approx. 1200 HV and merges gradually, and not suddenly, into thehardness of the case stainless
steel itself. This avoids the eggshell effect.

Ratchet wheel chronograph

A chronograph in which the start, stop and reset functions are controlled by a ratchet wheel.
A ratchet wheel, also called a column wheel, is a pivoting sawtoothed gear wheel to which several columns are
attached at right angles. It is made as a single piece, polished and hardened. According to the positioning of the
ratchet wheel, holes open up for the levers of the chronograph mechanism which can resolve a previously existing
blockage, or the lever touches a column and is lifted up due to its slanted side surfaces. The positioning of the ratchet
wheel is altered via the aforementioned sawtoothing at the base of the column wheel.
A ratchet wheel chronograph is much more challenging to produce in terms of manufacturing processes than the
usual shifting link. These chronographs are therefore much rarer.

Rattrapante
Ratchet wheel chronograph

regulation
The stages involved in achieving that highest possible degree of accuracy in a watch.
Even though the production quality of toothed wheels, bearings and pivots is decisive for the stable running of a
watch, these manufacturing stages are not generally regarded as part of the regulation system.
However, the regulator correction at the end of the regulation process, which is often the most visible aspect of
regulation, can only succeed as part of a good overall regulation process.
Regulation is an adjustment procedure carried out in four stages: centering the hairspring, adjusting the escapement,
truing thebalance, adjusting the regulator.
Regulation can cover both the different test positions and also temperatures. This is required in particular in the
regulation of achronometer.

regulator ? regulator correction

A device used to set the rate of a watch.

Regulator device mounted on balance cock.

A regulator correction changes the effective spring length of the oscillation systems hairspring. Before
the hairspring hits its outer fixture point it passes through a gap formed by two adjacent pins. The part of the spring
between the gap and the outer fixture point is exempted from the free oscillation of the spring. If the position of the
gap is shifted by a regulator correction, this changes the active spring length. Depending on the direction of the
change, the watch then runs faster or slower.

Reintitan
Siehe Titan.

safety bezel
See Sinn Technology Captive Safety Bezel.

sapphire crystal
Watch glass made from artificially produced sapphire crystal. Sapphire crystal consists of monocrystalline aluminum
oxide (Al2O3). At 2000 HV on the Vickers hardness scale, it is a scratch-resistant watch glass. It is also considerably
more scratch-resistant than mineral glass.

sapphire crystal, domed

A specialty of high-quality watchmaking.
On account of its exceptional hardness, sapphire crystal is the material of choice for high quality watch glasses.
Watch glass made of sapphire crystal is significantly more difficult to manufacture than mineral or synthetic glass.
A total of up to five different radii of curvature are created for our domed sapphire crystals by means of elaborate
cutting and grinding processes a special feature which is contrasted here briefly with conventional glass forms.
The final form of flat sapphire crystal is not too different from that of its original raw state. These watch glasses can
be cut directly from a cylinder and then polished.

Section through flat sapphire crystal.

The blank of a single-dome sapphire crystal watch glass needs to be thicker than the final glass thickness. However,
the final shape of the crystal is only formed from a single dome radius, meaning that the grinding process is still
relatively simple.

Section through domed sapphire crystal.

A domed sapphire crystal watch glass for our series 356 and 358 recreates the form of the acrylic glass, using five
different curvature radii. For this reason, grinding tools which have been specially made for the specified radii are
needed to create the inner and outer form of the dome.

The domed sapphire crystal watch glass of series

356 and 358.
The thickness of the sapphire crystal glass blank for our series 356 and 358 is roughly 5 mm, i.e. it is much thicker
than the blank for a conventional flat glass. The final shape must first be ground out of this blank and then carefully
polished.

Blank for sapphire crystal glass with indication of

final watch glass.

screw balance
See balance.

seconds stop function

Device to stop the watch movement, allows precise setting of the time.
The seconds stop function needs to be distinguished from the stopwatch second function. The stopwatch second
function is operated by pressing a push-piece; this allows times to be stopped using a separate display without
having to lose the current time as a result. This function is reserved exclusively forchronograph movements. The
seconds stop, by contrast, is also incorporated in three-hand movement watches (hours, minutes, seconds) and is
triggered by pulling the crown into the setting position. A lever mechanism linked to the crown arrests
thebalance oscillation right at the balance wheel, stopping the movement immediately. Once the hands have been
adjusted, the watch can then be restarted with split-second accuracy using a reference time signal.
Pocket watch calibres do not usually feature a seconds stop function. For our 6100 REGULATEUR and 6100 series,
however, we have carried out the required extensive reconstruction work to allow precise adjustment of the time.

shock resistance
Watches which are shock resistance must meet the requirements set out in DIN 8308. The testing equipment must
deliver a hammer blow at a speed of 4.43 m/s. The resulting change in the watch rate should not exceed +/- 60
seconds per day. The speed of 4.43 m/s is derived from the previous requirement that a fall from a height of 1 m onto
a wooden floor should not result in any defect in the movement. All Sinn watches are shock resistance as defined by
DIN 8308.

Sinn sealing grease 30-288

Fully synthetic grease developed especially for SINN for use on seal rings at temperatures ranging between -45C
and +80C. A seal ring treated with this grease has a considerably lower gas permeability rate than an ungreased
ring at the same compression and temperature. It also increases the ageing resistance of the seals.
The performance of EDR seals is optimized through the use of Sinn sealing grease 30-288. This combination gives
Sinn watches significantly greater protection against humidity than any conventionally sealed watch.

Sinn special oil 66-228

High-grade, fully synthetic oil specially developed for Sinn. Its outstanding properties at low and high temperatures
allow the watch to run accurately from -45C to +80C.

slide-rule scale
The slide-rule scale works on the principle of logarithmic scale divisions. This allows you to multiply and divide
numbers. It is useful for calculating consumption, converting units and currencies and for all kinds of rule-of-three
calculations. Additional information about the slide-rule function of the 903 model series.

split-seconds hand
An additional second hand on a stopwatch/chronograph for recording intermediate times.
With a split-seconds chronograph (also called a rattrapante), two second hands are set in motion when the start
button is pressed. The specific split-seconds function now makes it possible to stop the second stopwatch hand (the
carried hand) separately, without affecting the movement of the other second hand. In this way, an intermediate time

can be recorded. The split-seconds hand can be re-synchronised with the first second hand by pressing the
intermediate stop button again.
Our 910 Anniversary model features this special function.

stainless steel
Stainless steel is a grade of steel with a very high degree of purity and a chemical composition defined within narrow
tolerances.
Of particular importance in watchmaking are corrosion-resistant stainless steels, i.e. types of steel which are
protected from corrosion.
As a special feature we use submarine steel which is distinguished by its resistance to seawater and its
premium non-magnetic qualities.

submarine steel
Special grade of steel developed by ThyssenKrupp for the outer shells of the very latest non-nuclear submarines, the
212 class, of the German navy.
Our U series diving watches are made entirely from this special grade of steel.
This material is 100% austenic steel; it is exceptionally strong and has superior non-magnetic properties. Its
mechanical strength is more than 1.55 times that of the usual watch case steel AISI 316L.
A further advantage of using this steel in the manufacture of diving watches lies in its unique saltwater resistance.
Normal case steel has to be rinsed in fresh water after contact with saltwater, as long-term exposure to saltwater can,
in adverse circumstances, lead to corrosion. Submarine steel, by contrast, is completely resistant to prolonged
contact with saltwater. Also, submarine steel is, on account of its ductility, extremely resistant to cracking, thereby
further increasing its reliability.

SUG
Acronym for SCHSISCHE UHREN-TECHNOLOGIE GMBH GLASHTTE.
SUG is a manufacturer of high-grade watch cases. In 2001 SUG was the first, and to date the only, German watch
case manufacturer to be awarded DIN EN ISO 9002 certification.
This standard requires exacting quality management based on the use of suitable test methods and full traceability of
all procured materials.
Most of the outstanding watch cases made for Sinn are manufactured by SUG in Glashtte in Saxony and carry the
SUG inscription.

superluminova
Luminous paint for dials and hands, belonging to the group of inactive luminous paints, i.e. it emits no radiation.
The luminouseffect is based on the principle of phosphorescence.
Superluminova therefore needs to be charged by an external light source. In order to exploit the
maximum luminous capacity of the paint pigments, the paint must first be fully activated. In direct sunlight this takes
roughly 90 minutes. Superluminova can be charged and discharged as often as required without losing any of its
charging capacity. A further advantage in comparison totritium-based radioluminescent paint is that it does not turn
gray or yellow with age.

SZ movement
Name of in-house movement modifications.

SZ01
The SZ01 movement is based on the successful Valjoux 7750 and has been specially developed by SINN. The
development work began back in 2003.
The main priority in undertaking the redesign was to make thechronograph functions significantly easier to read off.
Which is why we attached so much importance to finding a first-class technical solution to mounting the jump 60minute stopwatch hand in the centre of the dial. This allows users to take accurate stop times even more quickly and
simply. The clarity and distinct readability of this chronograph stem from the design of the well-known Lemania 5100
movement.

Schematic diagram showingchronograph functions of the SZ01 using the example of

pilot chronograph EZM 10
Our redesign enhances the readability in two ways: firstly, 60 minutes are now counted in one sweep of the hand
instead of the usual 30 minutes, and secondly, the minute stop scale covers the entire diameter of the dial.

SZ02
Chronograph developed by Sinn on the basis of the Valjoux 7750.
The SZ caliber 02 is a modification of the SZ01 movement, characterized by an off-center 60-minute counter.

Schematic diagram showingchronograph functions of the SZ02 using the example of

diving chronograph U1000
The Valjoux 7750, by contrast, only has a 30-minute chronometercounter. Stopped times are difficult to see on this
standard caliber as the interim marks of the hour counter are very close to the hour indices. Only with the aid of this
pointer is it possible to distinguish between a minute display of 0 to 30 and 30 to 60. The SZ02 permits direct reading
of the minutes right through from 0 to 60 minutes.
The SZ02 was launched in 2006, the year of the World Cup in Germany. It was housed in the case of the 303
footballchronograph. The caliber has more than proved its worth since then, forming a reliable base for the perfect
readability of thediving watch U1000 range.

SZ03
A chronograph developed by SINN on the basis of the Valjoux 7751.

Schematic diagram showing calendar week display functions of the SZ03 using the
example of Frankfurt Financial District Watch 6052
The SZ03 is characterised by a calendar week display at six oclock. The movement also features a 60-minute
counter. This replaces the 30-minute counter which is characteristic of the standard movement and is positioned
off-centre at 12 oclock, just like SINNs own chronograph rebuild, the SZ02.
The Valjoux 7751 standard movement features an integrated full calendar. This is retained in our movement design
and displays the day of the week, date and month.

To enable intuitive reading of the calendar week at a glance, the week display is now featured alongside a 60-minute
display in the SZ03.

SZ04
Sinns own rebuild of the Unitas 6498 pocket watch caliber into a movement with regulator display.

Schematic diagram showing regulateur dial of the SZ04 using the example of
Regulateur 6100 Klassik
A regulator pointer recalls a feature found in precision grandfather clocks, which have a large-diameter fine-minutes
dial for regulatory or monitoring purposes. For reasons of better readability in the minute hand, this features small,
off-center hour and second dials.
Sinn has moved the hour dial from the center towards 12 oclock, without causing any additional friction losses or
using additional gearing. The Unitas 6498 caliber already had a small seconds dial, and the SZ04 represents the
optimum horological solution of a regulator display with three separately positioned dials for hours, minutes and
seconds.

SZ05
Sinns own movement rebuild of the Valjoux 7750 watch calibre.

Schematic diagram showingchronograph functions of the SZ05 using the example

ofchronograph 358 Anniversary
The purpose of the redesign was to significantly increase the clarity and readability of the dial display. Which is why
we focussed on the design of the SZ05 and the 60-minute stopwatch display at 3 o'clock and the running seconds at
9 o'clock. This does away with the annoying necessity of adding stopwatch minutes, as is required with conventional
30-minute stopwatch displays.

tachymeter scale
The tachymeter scale permits an average speed to be measured over a distance of one kilometer. For this, the stopwatch function must be activated at the start and end of the distance. Miles per hour (mph) can also be measured
using the tachymeter scale and the same principle.

A tachymeter scale shown on a 956 Classic watch.

TEGIMENT
SINN trademark for stainless steel and titanium surfaces with a particularly high level of hardness and scratch
resistance. SINN watches featuring this technology have been labelled with the TEGIMENT logotype since 2008.
See SINN TechnologyTEGIMENT.

temperature compensation
Temperature compensation refers to devices or combinations of materials which keep temperature-related
fluctuations to a minimum.
The physical timer processes at the heart of a timepiece movement are subject to temperature fluctuations. For
example, when warm, the pendulum of a large clock becomes elongated, extending the duration of the oscillation.
The rotational oscillation of a balance also changes its frequency due to temperature fluctuations, as the length of
the hairspring, the circumference of the balance wheel and the elasticity of the spring are all temperature-sensitive.
In the past, bi-metallic designs were common in pendulums and also in balance wheels. Two metals with different
thermal expansion coefficients were combined so that two contradictory expansion effects cancelled each other out
in temperature fluctuations.
In modern mechanical wristwatches, the temperature is compensated by the use of springs made from Nivarox. By
contrast, a temperature sensor is used in high-quality quartz chronometers (see chronometer quality, such as the
models in the UX series. The correction value of the quartz oscillation is constantly adjusted in its inhibition cycle in
line with the measured temperature.

Temperature Resistance Technology

See Sinn Technology Temperature Resistance Technology.

TESTAF
TESTAF is an acronym for Technischer Standard Fliegeruhren (technical standard for pilot watches), a list of
requirements and the creation of a certification body for watches launched by the Department of Aerospace
Technology at Aachen University of Applied Sciences together with Sinn Spezialuhren which is used in professional
aviation operations.

The role of a watch as part of contemporary aviation is barely different from the role of the diving watch in diving
when it comes to issues of safety. In both cases, diving computers or on-board instruments are the main means of
measuring time. However, wristwatches are commonly used as backup devices which enable the execution of the
flight or dive in accordance with prescribed procedure or emergency termination in the case of primary equipment
failure. Despite these similarities, DIN 8306 does provide a standardisation of the term diving watch, but there is not
yet a similar regulation of the term pilot watch. TESTAF is meant to close this loophole and set out all requirements
a wristwatch should meet in modern aviation. In addition, both TESTAF and the German Institute for Standardisation
are developing the first standard for pilot watchesin line with German Industry Standard DIN 8306 for diving watches.
TESTAF can be viewed or downloaded for free at www.testaf.org.

TESTAF and the new DIN standard pilot watches

At the suggestion and with the help of Sinn Spezialuhren, TESTAFwas used shortly after its completion by the

German Institute for Standardisation to develop a new standard for pilot watches (DIN 8330-1 / DIN 8330-2) for the
first time.

titanium
Sinn only uses titanium grade 2 and titanium grade 5, which is an ideal material for wristwatches.
No allergic reactions are known. With a specific weight of roughly 4.5 g/ccm it has just 60% of the weight of stainless
steel (specific weight approximately 7.8 g/ccm). It quickly absorbs body heat as a result of its low specific thermal
capacity and its low thermal conductivity. This makes it comfortable to wear, particularly during the cold months of the
year. The low electrical conductivity of titanium also increases wearing comfort as it reduces the electrical voltage
compensation between different parts of the skin around the wrist.
Grade 2 titanium: pure titanium with the material number 3.7035.
Grade 5 titanium: a high-strength titanium alloy with the material number 3.7165.

triovis precision adjustment system

A sophisticated system for speed adjustment of a movement.
The exact speed setting of a movement can often not be carried out with the desired precision by means of direct
regulator correction. The Triovis system is one of the precision adjustment systems with which the speed setting on a
watch can be optimised. For this purpose, the regulator disc is fitted with a very fine outer toothing which interlocks
with an equally fine set screw. The regulator disc can thus be moved via the rotation of a set screw. This is
advantageous in both the permanent fixing of a regulators position and in the precision of the adjustment, as the
breakaway torque typical of the regulator is mostly eliminated.

tritium
A radioactive luminous paint for dials and hands.
Tritium is an isotope of hydrogen (H), a volatile gas. It is slightly radioactive and has a half-life of 12.3 years.
Luminous paint which is energised by tritium does not need to be charged by external light. The volatile gas is
bonded in a polymer (tritiated plastic). With its electron radiation, it energises a passiveluminous substance such as
zinc sulphide, causing it to emit visible light.
The radioactivity emanating from the tritium coating in a water-resistant watch covered with a sapphire crystal is not
detectable. Luminous paints containing radioactive tritium are completely harmless to wearers of watches.

UTC
Universal Time Coordinated (UTC) = coordinated world time, since 1975 (15th General Conference on Weights and
Measures) the basis both for legal time and also for scientific-technical applications in astronomy, navigation and
electronic communication.
The UTC scale is not an astronomically based time, rather it is calculated from the coordination of roughly 250 atomic
clocks worldwide. The irregular rotation of the Earth results in small discrepancies to GMT using this definition.
However, reference to the mean solar time at 0 degrees longitude is necessary for navigation purposes, and so UTC
is adjusted to the astronomically anchored GMT by means of leap seconds. This adjustment is made once per year if
the deviation between the two times has grown to more than 0.9 seconds.
Central European Time (CET) is UTC plus one (or two) hours (daylight savings time).
The letters GMT or UTC on watches indicate that a second time zone can be read off.

VFR
Visual flight rules
In aviation, there is a distinction between visual and instrument flight rules (IFR). In visual flights, the pilots flight
behaviour is based on their visual perception of their flight environment. Visual flight is founded in the principle of see
and be seen. The rules of giving way follow the simple principle of see and avoid; flight separation using flight
control (an air traffic control system) is not practised with visual flights.
Accordingly, visual flights may only be carried out with adequate visibility (weather conditions, time of day) and at low
altitudes. Clouds may also not be entered, and horizontal and vertical distances from them must be complied with. In
general, VFR is used for smaller aircraft (light aircraft). In the military sector, low-level flights can be conducted using
VFR.
In TESTAF, the demands made on wrist watches change with the flight rules and are taken into account in the
certification.

vickers hardness
A very commonly used indication of the hardness of a material. The associated measurement process prescribes
pushing a small diamond pyramid into the test object at different test loads. The diagonal of the resulting impression
is measured and an average obtained. This is used to calculate the hardness.
Examples:
Stainless steel: approx. 200 up to 240 HV
Titanium Grade 2: approx. 210 HV
Titanium Grade 5: approx. 350 HV
Hardened mineral glass: approx. 800 up to 900 HV
Sapphire crystal: approx. 2,000 HV
Diamond: 4,500 HV up to 10,000 HV

water resistance
If a Sinn watch is labeled water-resistant, it fulfils the requirements of DIN 8310 in its original specifications. Sinn
guarantees that its water-resistant watches can withstand pressures up to at least 10 bar. This corresponds to the
pressure at a depth of 100 m. Some of our classic masterpiece models are exempt from this. The water-resistance of
each individual watch we produce is checked. The maximum depth given on many watches always refers to the
maximum static compressive stress which the watch case is guaranteed to withstand. When swimming, or in a jet of
water (washing hands or showering), there are also directional flows with dynamic pressure peaks which impact
upon the relevant parts of a watch to a greater extent than the diving depth alone.
In order to use a watch safely when swimming we therefore recommend a compression resistance of at least 100
m. Diving watches are recommended for intensive and frequent use in water. The compressive resistance of a diving
watch is given inbar or in depth, measured in meters. When diving, the pressure increases by one bar every 10 m.
In everyday use it is important to note that seals can suffer from wear or ageing and that small direct particles can
build up in them as the result of a wide range of factors which arise when wearing a wristwatch. These particles can
themselves assume a part of the seal function if the seal elements are already suffering from extensive wear.
Tensides from detergents or similar cleaning agents can then coat such particles, making it easy from them to be
washed away.
For these reasons the airtightness of a wristwatch should be checked on a regular basis (once per year).
For smartwatches, statements about water resistance usually refer to the so-called IP protection classes. The
distinctions between these protection classes are used in electrical engineering to describe cases for electrical
equipment in terms of the protection they offer against water and dust and to enable this protection to be verified.
The associated standard is DIN EN 60529.
Because this approach treats a watch as a piece of electrical operating equipment, the requirements and testing
methods are not specific to wristwatch cases but have to be applicable to any protective case. The disadvantage of
this is illustrated by the following example.
The protection class most commonly found with electronic watches is IP 67 (which corresponds to DIN EN 60529).
The first digit, 6, indicates how dust-proof the case is. The second digit, 7, is determined by a water resistance test
which, at first glance, corresponds exactly to the designated stress for wristwatches as per DIN 8310 (water
resistance): the device is immersed in water at a depth of 1 m for 30 minutes. But while DIN 8310 includes several
sub-tests to ensure that the case is equipped to withstand this stress, the IP protection class test is limited to the
immersion of the device in water at a depth of 1 m for 30 minutes. The reason for this difference is that DIN 8310
wants to test the cases ability to withstand repeated immersion for short periods of time in shallower water depths,
whereas IP 67 describes a one-off test process with the same situation.
To this end, DIN 8310 includes more stringent sub-tests than what is specified in its designated stress section. Thus,
the watch is exposed for five minutes to water pressure of 3 bar, which equates to a water depth of around 30
metres. To comply with DIN 8310, the watch also has to be exposed to a level of compressive stress 30 times higher
than that of protection class test IP 67.
With DIN 8310, the watch is also immersed for 60 minutes in a water depth of 10 cm. So after the watchs stability at
a water depth of 30 m has been guaranteed, it is tested at very low pressure at a depth of 10 cm. When the case is
immersed in shallow water, the seals are no longer being pressed against the sealing surfaces on the case as they
are at higher pressure. This means that the seals have to be able to withstand capillary splitting effects themselves,
using their own inbuilt compression.
Furthermore, DIN 8310 checks for any water that might have penetrated the case using a condensed water test
(whereby water that has penetrated the case is vaporised via exposure to heat, causing condensation to form on the
cooled crystal). In this way, even very small quantities of water can be detected because they form a thin layer of
condensation on the crystal. In DIN EN 60529, by contrast, this test criterion (the amount of water permitted to
penetrate the case) is expressly left open and is subject to the jurisdiction of a Technical Committee responsible for
the specific product. If there is no additional information available for these test criteria for a watch tested using

protection class IP 67, then the labelling of that watch as IP 67 is not really very meaningful.
Overall, therefore, it is clear that the watch-specific DIN standard has significantly more stringent requirements when
it comes to the word water-resistant than protection class IP 67.

white gold
Gold alloys are not restricted to gold tones, they also come in a range of colours. By changing the proportions of
copper and silver, a gold alloy can be given a yellow, ros or reddish appearance. An additional alloy component is
required to produce high-carat white gold which bleaches the gold evenly to make it look like steel or silver. In the
past, nickel was used for this. However, palladium is now used on account of the growing allergy problems and the
resultant Euro standard 1811 which has set a legal restriction on the release of nickel in jewellery in direct contact
with the skin since the year 2000. Palladium, though, is a very expensive precious metal, and companies often like to
save costs by treating the surface of their jewellery products with a galvanic rhodium coating. This coat covers the
remaining yellow colour of the base material and also protects it from tarnishing.
We use an 18ct gold alloy containing a high proportion of palladium. As a result, the alloy does not need to be coated
with rhodium to alter the colour tone.

zirconium oxid
Zirconium-oxide ceramics
Technical ceramics that are made from the oxide of the metallic element zirconium using a sintering process. The
precise chemical name is zirconium dioxide. This raw material belongs to the group of oxide ceramics which also
includes aluminium oxide, known in watchmaking through (polycrystalline) sapphire glass and rubies.
The term ceramics is generally understood to be a much narrower term than the one used today in technical
contexts. Whilst people mostly think of clay and porcelain products i.e. special silicate ceramics when ceramics
are mentioned, they have also long been widely used in technology such as in ball bearings, plain bearings or engine
parts. First amongst the modern types of ceramics used here is zirconium oxide. Whereas conventional ceramics
dating back far into the annals of history can be produced from natural raw materials and at relatively low firing
temperatures, the technical ceramics introduced over the last 100 years only obtain their special properties by using
high-purity synthetic starting materials and applying high temperatures and pressures.
Beginning with a very fine powder (less than 1 micron particle diameter), a sintering process is used to produce
zirconium ceramics, just like in the production of traditional ceramics. The temperatures almost reach the melting
point of the ceramic powder and induce the fine powder particles to cake. This sintering process is combined with the
hot isostatic pressing process in the production of technical zirconium ceramics, where it is fired under high pressure
(acting from all sides) to produce a significantly thicker material with much finer crystals, as opposed to traditional
firing technology. Among the resulting properties of this material, the main ones are:
+ high heat resistance, low thermal expansion
+ non-conductive
+ biocompatibility
+ high corrosion resistance
+ high hardness levels with equally high levels of mechanical strength
The two latter points make the materials very attractive to watchmakers. Zirconium oxide ceramics are characterised
by very high resistance to scratches, but at the same time they have a mechanical strength that is more than double
that of sapphireglass. This means that zirconium ceramics are not prone to breakage despite their
high hardness level.
By adding coloured particles, the naturally white zirconium dioxide can take on a black or coloured appearance.