What is the major advantage of quartz movements over mechanical movements?

Quartz movements provide a significant advantage over mechanical movements primarily due to their accuracy and lower maintenance requirements. Quartz watches operate using a battery that sends an electrical current through a quartz crystal, causing it to vibrate at a precise frequency. This results in a highly accurate timekeeping mechanism that can vary by only a few seconds per month, which is much more reliable than most mechanical movements.

In addition to their accuracy, quartz movements typically require less maintenance compared to mechanical movements. Mechanical watches, which rely on a complex system of gears and springs, require regular servicing to maintain their functionality and precision. In contrast, quartz watches generally need only a battery replacement once every few years, making them more convenient for everyday consumers.

While the other options touch on certain aspects of watches, they do not address the core benefits of quartz technology. For instance, while quartz watches can offer a variety of designs and customization to an extent, their primary selling point lies in their accuracy and low maintenance needs. Similarly, they are not necessarily more expensive than mechanical watches; in fact, quartz watches are often more affordable due to their mass production and simpler mechanics.