A perpetual calendar is a type of mechanical chronograph that measures and records time during different intervals of the day, rather than simply tracking minutes and hours. In addition to showing the current date, perpetual calendars can track different lengths of months and leap year cycles. They are called "perpetual" because their indicators will never need to be set to zero. A perpetual calendar has two main functions: displaying the current date and tracking leap year cycles and other information related to the Gregorian calendar. These functions are accomplished through a series of levers, cams, springs and gears that all work together to accomplish these specific tasks. There are not many manufacturers producing perpetual calendars for watches at this time; however, if you are looking for one, you will likely pay a high price because they are so rare.

A brief history of the perpetual calendar

Before we dive into the intricacies and inner workings of a perpetual calendar, let's take a moment to learn about the history of this type of calendar. While the perpetual calendar is a specific type of chronograph, the chronograph itself was invented in Switzerland in the late 1880s. Originally, the chronograph was designed as a chronometer (a device used to measure time) with a pen attached.

Early chronographs were not worn as watches, but were primarily used in a professional setting by people who needed to measure time accurately. The perpetual calendar was invented about 50 years after the chronograph. The first patents for perpetual calendar watches are attributed to Jules-Cesar Gonzales in France.

Although perpetual calendars have been around since the early 1900s, they have been produced by very few companies. It is extremely difficult and rare to find a new perpetual calendar, and buying an antique perpetual calendar is quite expensive. The last popular brand of perpetual calendar watches was produced by Patek Philippe. And the last Swiss-made perpetual calendar was produced in 1989. After the popularity of perpetual calendar watches began to fade in the late 20th century, the production of this type of watches ended.

How does a perpetual calendar work ? 

The most important part of a perpetual calendar is the equation of time. This takes into account the fact that each day is about one and a half minutes longer in summer than in winter. The equation of time is used to correct the calendar for these seasonal variations. A perpetual calendar also takes into account other factors, such as leap year cycles.

In addition to these corrections, a perpetual calendar also shows the current month and day of the week. It accomplishes these tasks by using a series of levers, cams, springs and gears that all work together to accomplish these specific tasks. Each perpetual calendar watch is different in the way it keeps track of time, and to find the right watch for you, you will need to research the specific features of the watch you wish to purchase. Due to the complexity of the mechanisms inside a perpetual calendar, the likelihood of something breaking is higher than with a normal watch. If a part breaks, it is unlikely that it can be repaired.

Other features to look for in a perpetual calendar

Accuracy

While most perpetual calendars are extremely accurate, some may need adjustment like our calendars. It may be wise to have your watch checked by a professional to see if any adjustments are needed after purchase.

Power Reserve

Another important feature to look for in a perpetual calendar is the power reserve. This feature tells you how long the watch can continue to run without being wound. Most perpetual calendars have a power reserve of about 40 hours.

The date change mechanism

Another feature to look for is the date change mechanism. Some perpetual calendars have a change that occurs on the last day of the month. Others have a change every month on a specific date.

Visibility

The final feature to look for in a perpetual calendar is visibility. A perpetual calendar is a complicated watch, and the dial can be cluttered with information. You want to be able to read all the information on the dial, so make sure you find a watch that is easy to read.

Should you buy a perpetual calendar watch ?

A perpetual calendar is a very complex and intricate piece of machinery that is more likely to break than a normal watch. However, many people find that the extra complexity and cost is worth it, as they will never need to reset their watch again. If you are looking for a watch with an exceptional amount of functionality, you should consider purchasing a perpetual calendar. A perpetual calendar shows the month and day of the week, as well as the current year and leap year cycles. If you want a watch that will last you a long time and require little maintenance, a perpetual calendar is probably for you. However, the cost of the watch can be prohibitive.

A perpetual calendar is a beautiful and complex watch. It is a mechanical watch that is meant to last a lifetime. It is a watch that has been crafted with a level of care and precision that a quartz watch simply cannot match. A perpetual calendar is a watch that will be passed down from generation to generation as a family heirloom. It is a watch that you will pass on to your children and grandchildren or as a birthday gift knowing that you bought it because you wanted a watch that would last forever.