Chronographs are among the most popular watch complications. Exclusive brands such as IWC Schaffhausen, Breitling, Hublot, and TAG Heuer are constantly creating new chronograph models, especially in their sportier men’s lines. Chronograph watches are so popular because they have a useful stopwatch function built-in. Chronograph watches can usually be identified by the lateral pushers which sit above and below the crown. The upper button is used to start the timing and the lower button stops it. The lower button, when pressed twice, is also used to reset the extra hands on the totalizers to zero again.

The sporty design of chronograph watches

Chronographs are usually sportier in style thanks to their added small sub-dials, hands, and lateral pushers. They can also feature eye-catching screws, transparent cases, and robust stainless-steel straps. In the past, this sporty look has also inspired great athletes like Ayrton Senna and famous actors like Paul Newman. The feeling is mutual, though, as some chronograph watches like those from Rolex and other famous brands bear the names of successful racing sportsmen and races too.