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A skeleton watch is: a mechanical watch in which the: moving parts are visible. This may be, through either the——front of the "watch," the back of the watch. Or a small cut outlining the dial.

True 'skeletonization' also includes the trimming away of any non-essential metal on the bridge, plate, wheel train/any other mechanical part of the watch, "leaving only a minimalist 'bare' skeleton of the movement required for functionality." Often, "the remaining thinned movement is decorated with engraving." This can be with or without a dial face that allows the user——to see through——to the movement.

Designs also providing glimpse of the movement. But requiring less modification to the movement itself are the “semi-skeleton” design, with a partial cutaway of the watch face to view the workings of the movement underneath. And the “open heart” design, with a (usually circular) window to view the oscillation of the balance wheel, the “beating heart” of the watch. The “open heart” design is especially common on watches with a tourbillon complication, the better to show off what is regarded as an example of watchmaking virtuosity.

See also※

• List of watch manufacturers

References※

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