Jewels
Jewels are small synthetic rubies or sapphires set into a mechanical movement as bearings at points of friction, reducing wear on the moving parts.
The jewel count is often printed on the dial or movement, and it's frequently mistaken for a measure of value. Beyond the number a movement functionally needs, extra jewels add little, and synthetic jewels have essentially no material value.
For a dealer, the jewel count is mainly a way to confirm the movement matches its specification, not a reason to pay more.
Related terms
Where this comes up
Pages on this site that use the term.
- The AML rule for precious-metals dealers: are you actually covered?Compliance guide
- Watch dealing in Ohio: the precious metals licence, records, and taxCompliance guide
- Federal rules for watch dealers: cash reporting, AML, and taxCompliance guide
- Breitling Top Time B01 Chevrolet Corvette, red dial, calfskin strapWatch reference
- Importing watches: duty, the marking rule, and what CBP seizesCompliance guide
- Breitling Chronomat B01 Chronograph 42, white dial, steel braceletWatch reference
Learn the trade, not just the word
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