Before you buy

What Is a Chronograph Watch? How to Use One and How to Choose

5 min read·Updated 9 July 2026

Many people see a watch with two or three small dials inside the main one and wonder what they are. That's a chronograph. This article explains simply how it works, what it's for and how to choose one — browse authentic EDIFICE, known for its chronographs.

1. What is a chronograph?

A chronograph is a watch with a built-in stopwatch as well as normal timekeeping. You can spot one by the pushers on the side of the case (above and below the crown) and the sub-dials that show the timed result. It's different from a 'chronometer', which is a certified accuracy standard.

2. How the pushers and sub-dials work

Top pusher — Start/Stop the timer
Bottom pusher — Reset the hands to zero
Sub-dials — show the timed seconds, minutes and hours (some models have a constantly running seconds dial called a small second)

3. What it's useful for in real life

Beyond looking great, a chronograph times all sorts of things: boiling eggs, a run, parking, or any task. Some models have a tachymeter scale on the bezel for calculating speed. If exercise is your main use, compare with watches for exercise.

Tip: always press Reset before Start so the chronograph hand returns to zero. If it doesn't return exactly to zero after a battery change, you can usually recalibrate it following that model's manual.

4. Chronograph vs a regular watch

If you like a sporty, detailed dial and want a stopwatch, a chronograph fits. If you prefer clean and easy to read, a regular three-hand watch is enough. To understand movements better, read automatic vs quartz.

5. Recommended chronographs

CASIO's EDIFICE line stands out for sporty-luxury chronographs, great for work and events — read which EDIFICE to buy. For rugged digital timing, many G-SHOCK models have it too.

FAQ

What's the difference between a chronograph and a chronometer?

A chronograph is a stopwatch function on a watch; a chronometer is a certified standard of accuracy. They're different things despite the similar names.

Can I wear a chronograph to work?

Yes. Many models have smart designs on steel bracelets that look great at work. Choose a case that fits your wrist and a plain colour and it works for both work and casual wear.