Seiko 9R15, 9R65 manual Spring Drive Mechanism ①

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Spring Drive Mechanism ①

Taste of a Mechanical Watch

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High accuracy equivalent to a Quartz Watch That is the concept of the Spring Drive.

Let’s start from the drive method of a watch.

The method for driving a watch is divided into two types. They are mechanical type and quartz type.

In a mechanical watch, the mainspring is wound and its unwinding power moves the hands.

Amazing mechanism created by high quality workmanship, and admiration goes to skilled craftsmen with passion.

You can feel the appreciation and personal touch of the craftsmen in the ticking sound.

On the other hand, with quartz watches, the quartz is oscillated by a battery and the hands are turned by a motor.

It is characterized by accuracy using state-of-the-art technology.

What is the Spring Drive like?

This is not a mechanical watch or a quartz watch.

In one word, this is a“mechanical watch having accuracy equivalent to a quartz watch.”

The Spring Drive is a self-contained drive system that realizes accuracy equivalent to a quartz watch with only the power of the mainspring and has no battery, motor, or secondary battery.

Accuracy of monthly rate of ±15 seconds (daily rate of ±1 second)※ equivalent to a quartz watch is achieved while using a mainspring. The Spring Drive is Seiko’s proprietary mechanism which is made available only by SEIKO’s unique combination of skills in both mechanical and electronic micro-engineering.

Then, how could it be possible to achieve such a degree of accuracy?

That is explained on the next page.

※For Cal. 9R15, the average monthly rate is ±10 seconds (equivalent to daily rate of ±0.5 second).

Spring Drive Mechanism ②

The power of the mainspring is regulated by electronic control. That is the essence of the Spring Drive.

What controls the accuracy of a mechanical watch is

the balance spring, a part of the speed-regulating unit, called the balance.

This part influences the accuracy to some extent

because it is made of metal which expands and contracts with changes in temperature.

The Spring Drive is

completely different from a mechanical watch in this speed-regulating unit.

The Spring Drive is powered by a mainspring,

but adopts an electronic speed-regulating unit comprising a generator, IC circuit, and crystal oscillator.

In a little more detail,

at the end of the train wheel that moves the hands, a series of speed increasing wheels with a rotor are provided.

The unwinding power of the mainspring rotates the rotor, generating electricity in the coil to drive the crystal oscillator and IC.

The IC controls the spinning speed of the rotor by applying and releasing the electromagnetic brake, while comparing the accuracy of the electric signals generated by the crystal oscillator and the spinning speed of the rotor.

In addition, by making the energy transfer of the train wheel efficient and adopting an IC that drives with low power consumption and an amorphous core with low energy loss for the coil core part, power reserve of more than 72 hours far exceeding normal mechanical watches is realized.

An unprecedented drive system which offers quartz accuracy. This is the Spring Drive.

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Contents Spring Drive JSYGS9R1-1302Contents History of Spring Drive Spring Drive Mechanism ① Gear train hands MainspringTri-synchro regulator About the caliber number How to check the caliber numberWater resistance Precautions for diving 9R65, 9R15 Regular models Hour hand Second hand Crown Power reserve Date Indicator9R65, 9R15 Diver’s models 9R66 Model with a rotating bezel 9R66 Regular model9R86, 9R84 Power reserve indicator How to read the power reserve indicatorCrown Screw-lock type crownHow to wind the main spring Tips for more accurate time settingDate adjustment at the end of the month How to set the time and dateHow to use the screw-lock type button Before using the stopwatch functionNames of the chronograph parts and their function Screw-lock type buttonHow to use the stopwatch function Accumulated elapsed time measurement② If your watch has screw-lock Working Type buttons, unlock themHow to use the tachymeter How to measure average speed of your vehicleHow to compute productivity rate per hour How to set the time and calendarHow to set the calendar Time difference adjustment function How to use the 24-hour handHow to use the time difference adjustment function How to use the bi-directional rotating bezel Selectable display modeWhen daylight saving time is observed On the rotating bezelUnidirectional rotating bezel How to use the rotating bezelList of time zone differences in major regions of the world Diver adjuster How to use the diver adjusterAfter-sale service Replacement partsGuarantee Daily careBand Magnetic resistance Magnetic influenceMetallic band Leather bandTroubleshooting LumibriteIf your watch has Lumibrite Reference data on the luminanceSPECIFICATIONS（Movement）

9R15, 9R65 specifications

The Seiko 9R series is a remarkable line of mechanical watches featuring Spring Drive technology, a hallmark of precision and innovation. Among its esteemed models, the 9R65 and 9R15 movements stand out for their unique characteristics and advancements.

The 9R65 movement is known for its impressive power reserve of up to 72 hours, which is significant for a watch powered by a spring-driven mechanism. This makes it extremely reliable for everyday wear, as users can take the watch off for a weekend without worrying about it stopping. One of the most notable features of the 9R65 is its smooth and continuous movement of the second hand, a signature of Spring Drive technology. Instead of ticking like traditional mechanical watches, the 9R65 provides a seamless glide, offering a visual experience that is both captivating and elegant.

On the other hand, the 9R15 movement, while sharing some similarities with the 9R65, takes the craftsmanship a step further with its chronograph function. This feature allows users to accurately measure elapsed time, making it ideal for sports enthusiasts and those who require precision timing. The 9R15 has a power reserve of approximately 60 hours, ensuring that it maintains its functionality over an extended period. Its robust design is complemented by the familiar Spring Drive mechanism, ensuring that while it offers additional functionality, it does not compromise on the smoothness and reliability typical of Seiko.

Both movements utilize Seiko’s advanced Spring Drive technology, which combines the best elements of mechanical and quartz watchmaking. This unique hybrid system allows for unparalleled accuracy, with variations of just one second per day, which is exceptional for a mechanical watch. Furthermore, the 9R series features a durable construction, incorporating high-quality materials such as stainless steel and ceramic, enhancing their longevity and resistance to wear.

In conclusion, the Seiko 9R65 and 9R15 movements exemplify the brand’s commitment to innovation, precision, and durability. Whether you prefer the minimalist elegance of the 9R65 or the added complexity of the chronograph in the 9R15, both options promise an exceptional blend of technology and artistry that showcases Seiko's prowess in horology. These movements not only cater to the demands of modern watch enthusiasts but also pay homage to the intricate traditions of watchmaking, making them a desirable choice for collectors and aficionados alike.
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