What are the two main types of watch movements?

The correct answer highlights the two principal categories of watch movements: mechanical and quartz.

Mechanical movements are further divided into automatic and manual types, but they fall under the broader classification of mechanical mechanisms that rely on intricate gear systems and springs. These movements are powered by the motion of the wearer (in the case of automatic) or by winding the crown (in the case of manual). They are esteemed for their craftsmanship, tradition, and often, their aesthetic appeal.

Quartz movements, on the other hand, utilize a battery and a quartz crystal to keep time. This technology revolutionized watchmaking with its accuracy and lower maintenance requirements compared to mechanical movements. Quartz watches can maintain time with much greater precision, making them a popular choice for everyday use.

In summary, the distinction between mechanical and quartz movements encompasses the fundamental ways watches operate, differentiating based on power source and technological design.