Glossary · Complication
Chronometer (marine)
A precision timekeeper certified for rate stability, historically for marine navigation.
Explanation
A chronometer is a timekeeper of certified precision. The marine chronometer — a boxed, gimballed instrument with a detent escapement — revolutionised navigation by carrying Greenwich time for longitude finding. In modern Swiss usage, 'chronometer' means a movement certified by COSC to ISO 3159 rate limits. The word was also used loosely in advertising, so a dial inscription alone proves nothing.
In the object catalogue
Catalogued objects whose own source record mentions “Chronometer (marine)”. The quoted line shows where; it is the seller’s or museum’s wording, not independent verification.
Pocket watch
Albert H. Potter & Co., Geneva Gold Hunting Cased Keyless Pocket Chronometer No. 85
“Albert H. Potter & Co., Geneva Gold Hunting Cased Keyless Pocket Chronometer No. 85”
Wristwatch
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 6567
“This is a vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual wristwatch listed under reference 6567 with Caliber 1030 in a 14k gold shell case. The dial displays a silver sunburst finish with appli…”
Pocket watch
Dent 18K Gold Pocket Chronometer with Original Box
“Dent 18K Gold Pocket Chronometer with Original Box”
Pocket watch
Albert Pellaton-Favre Attributed 18K Yellow Gold Pocket Chronometer with One-Minute Tourbillon Regulator
“Albert Pellaton-Favre Attributed 18K Yellow Gold Pocket Chronometer with One-Minute Tourbillon Regulator”
Clock
Edward John Dent Gilt-Brass Chronometer Carriage Timepiece, No. 693
“Edward John Dent Gilt-Brass Chronometer Carriage Timepiece, No. 693”
Pocket watch
Eberhard & Co. Chronomètre Pocket Watch
“Model: chronometer”