How to Use a Watch Tachymeter: A Beginner’s Guide to Wristwatch Timing
A tachymeter is a speed measuring tool found on sporty wristwatches.

Part of what gives a luxury watch their value is the feats of mechanical engineering that are crammed into the tiny case. A great example is the tachymeter, often found on chronograph watches, which is both a demonstration of horological craft, and a sometimes-helpful gadget.
Understanding what a tachymeter is and how to use it can enhance your appreciation of your watch or your next potential watch. In this guide, we’ll explain what a tachymeter is, how it works, and why you might consider adding a watch with this feature to your collection.
What Is a tachymeter?
A tachymeter is a scale typically engraved on the outer bezel of a watch. It allows you to measure speed or calculate units per hour, making it a handy tool for timing various activities.
Key Characteristics:
- Figures that represent “unit of distance per units of time” are marked around the edge of a watch face.
- Can measure miles per hour, kilometres per hour, or other units over a set distance or time.
- Found on chronographs, enabling precise measurements when paired with the watch’s stopwatch functionality.

It’s most famously associated with racing chronographs, so a watch with a tachymeter would be considered a “sporty” watch.
Watch enthusiasts may buy a watch with a tachymeter purely out of appreciation for the craftsmanship. Similar to minute repeaters and chronographs, their value is more than in their function.
How to use a watch tachymeter
The use of a tachymeter is simple, but understanding the result can daunt some people. but it’s simpler than it looks. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Start the chronograph
Begin timing as the event starts. For instance, if you’re measuring the speed of a car over a mile, start the chronograph as the car passes a set point.
2. Stop the chronograph
Stop the timer when the event ends—for example, when the car has travelled the measured mile.
3. Read the tachymeter scale
The number on the tachymeter bezel aligned with the stopwatch’s seconds hand indicates the speed in units per hour.
4. Example calculation
If the car travels one mile in 30 seconds, the tachymeter scale will point to 120, meaning the car is moving at 120 miles per hour.
Why buy a watch with a tachymeter?
A tachymeter isn’t just a functional tool—it’s a nod to the history and precision of horology. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
- Practical Utility: Whether you’re timing laps at a racetrack, calculating your average speed on a road trip, or estimating travel time, a tachymeter adds practical value.
- Historical Significance: Tachymeters are iconic features of classic racing watches, like the Omega Speedmaster or the TAG Heuer Carrera. Owning one connects you to a legacy of precision and innovation.
- Luxury Appeal: Watches with tachymeters often showcase exceptional craftsmanship, appealing to those with a passion for intricate designs.
Choosing the right tachymeter watch
When selecting a watch with a tachymeter, consider the following:
- Purpose: Will you use it for its functional timing abilities or as a stylish statement piece?
- Design: Look for clear, legible tachymeter scales and durable materials.
- Brand Heritage: Opt for brands renowned for their chronograph watches, such as Omega, Breitling, or Rolex.
Conclusion
A tachymeter is more than just a watch feature—it’s a gateway to precision, history, and style. By understanding how to use this versatile tool, you’ll not only gain a deeper appreciation for your watch but also enjoy practical benefits that extend beyond the ordinary.
Ready to explore tachymeter watches? Browse our collection of luxury timepieces, such as the Rolex Daytona, and find the perfect chronograph to elevate your style and functionality.