An additional watch function or mechanism beyond basic timekeeping, such as a calendar, chronograph or tourbillon.
A complication generally adds a function or indication beyond the basic display of hours, minutes and seconds; the term also conventionally includes mechanisms such as the tourbillon. The term applies to mechanical and electronic watches, regardless of how the movement is wound. A calendar adds information about the date, while a chronograph measures an elapsed interval independently of the ordinary time display. These are different kinds of complication, with different mechanisms and checks. In production, watchmakers assemble movements that may include complications and then verify that the functions operate correctly. For a newcomer, the useful question is which additional function a watch offers and how the wearer uses it.
In job listings
Richemont’s Mississauga watchmaker posting required demonstrated servicing expertise in calendar complications, alongside chronographs and mechanical or automatic movements. Calendar complications provide a concrete example of the term because they add date information to basic timekeeping. Here complication identified a technical watchmaking specialism. Search local jobs for “complications”.
