watch-case

A watchmaker carefully opens the gold watch-case to inspect the movement.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A protective casing for a watch: "watch-case" refers to the outer covering or container that encloses and protects the internal mechanism of a watch, typically made of metal, plastic, or other durable material.
   • A structural component of a timepiece: In horology, the "watch-case" is the housing that holds the watch movement, dial, and crystal, and often includes features like a crown, lugs, and a back cover.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The watch-case was made of stainless steel, ensuring durability and water resistance. (The protective outer covering of the watch.)
  • He carefully opened the watch-case to repair the delicate gears inside. (The housing that contains the watch mechanism.)

Advanced Usage

• "watch-case back": the removable cover on the rear of a watch-case, often used for access to the movement or for engraving.
  • The watch-case back was engraved with a personal message. (The rear cover of the watch housing.)
• "watch-case design": the aesthetic and functional features of a watch-case, including shape, material, and finish.
  • The vintage watch-case design featured a round, gold-plated body. (The stylistic and structural characteristics of the watch housing.)

Variants and Related Words

• Watchcase (n): a variant spelling of "watch-case", meaning the same protective casing.
  • The antique watchcase was crafted from silver. (The outer covering of the watch.)
• Watch-case maker (n): a craftsman who manufactures watch-cases.
  • The watch-case maker specialized in custom designs for luxury timepieces. (A professional who produces watch housings.)

Synonyms

• Housing: a protective container or casing for machinery.
• Casing: a cover or shell that encloses something.
• Enclosure: a space or structure that surrounds something.

Related Idioms