Sellita SW200-1 machine features, history and interesting facts

The Sellita SW200-1 is a Swiss-made automatic movement that has gained widespread popularity in the watch industry. Known for its reliability, versatility, and robust construction, it has become a go-to choice for many watch brands around the world. Let's delve into the history, interesting facts, and functions of this significant mechanical movement.

History of the Sellita SW200-1

The Sellita SW200-1 is manufactured by Sellita Watch Company SA, a Swiss movement manufacturer based in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. The company was founded in 1950 and has since established itself as a reputable supplier of mechanical movements to the watch industry.

The SW200-1 was introduced as an alternative to the ETA 2824-2, another widely used Swiss movement. When ETA, a subsidiary of Swatch Group, restricted the supply of movements to third-party brands, Sellita seized the opportunity to fill the gap in the market. The SW200-1 was designed to offer similar performance and reliability to the ETA 2824-2, providing watchmakers with a dependable Swiss movement option.

Interesting Facts about the Sellita SW200-1

1. Versatility: The SW200-1 is a highly versatile movement that can be found in a wide range of watches, from dive watches to dress watches. Its modular design allows for various complications to be added, such as date, day-date, and GMT functions.

2. Reliability: One of the key selling points of the SW200-1 is its reliability. It operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), ensuring smooth and accurate timekeeping.

3. Interchangeability: The SW200-1 is often seen as a direct replacement for the ETA 2824-2 due to their similarities in design and specifications. This interchangeability makes it easier for watchmakers to service and repair watches with either movement.

4. Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to some other Swiss movements, the SW200-1 offers a good balance of quality and affordability. This makes it an attractive option for watch brands looking to produce high-quality watches without the high cost associated with some Swiss movements.

5. Decorative Finishes: Sellita offers the SW200-1 with various finishing options, including perlage, Geneva stripes, and blued screws. These decorative touches enhance the aesthetic appeal of the movement, especially when viewed through a transparent case back.

Functions of the Sellita SW200-1

1. Hours, Minutes, Seconds: The basic function of the SW200-1 is to display hours, minutes, and seconds with the central hands.

2. Date Display: Many watches equipped with the SW200-1 feature a date window at the 3 o'clock position. The date can be adjusted via the crown.

3. Stop-Second Function: The movement allows for precise time setting with a stop-second function. When the crown is pulled out to the time-setting position, the seconds hand stops, enabling accurate synchronization.

4. Bi-Directional Winding: The SW200-1 is a bi-directional winding movement, meaning it winds the mainspring regardless of the direction the rotor spins. This efficient winding system ensures the watch stays powered with minimal wrist movement.

5. Power Reserve: The SW200-1 has a power reserve of approximately 38 hours when fully wound. This means that if the watch is not worn for around two days, it will stop running and need to be wound again.

Conclusion

The Sellita SW200-1 has solidified its position as a reliable and versatile Swiss movement in the watchmaking industry. Its history as an alternative to the ETA 2824-2, along with its interesting features like interchangeability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, has made it a popular choice for watch brands worldwide. Whether it's a dive watch, a dress watch, or a pilot's watch, the SW200-1's ability to deliver accurate timekeeping and various functions has made it a favorite among watch enthusiasts and manufacturers alike.

You can view our entire range of watches with the Sellita SW200-1 movement below.