At TIMEPIECES NZ, we take matters about time seriously. Below are some timely tips you may find useful – from handling your timepiece through to how to look after it.

 

Barometer Compensations

Transporting Barometers

Using Your Barometer or Barograph

Watches - Dos and Don'ts

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Barometer Compensations

 

  Temperature

The density of mercury will change with temperature, so a reading must be adjusted for the temperature of the instrument. For this purpose a mercury thermometer is usually mounted on the instrument. Temperature compensation of an aneroid barometer is accomplished by including a bi-metal element in the mechanical linkages. Aneroid barometers sold for domestic use seldom go to the trouble.

 

Altitude

As the air pressure will be decreased at altitudes above sea level (and increased below sea level) the actual reading of the instrument will be dependent upon its location. This pressure is then converted to an equivalent sea-level pressure for purposes of reporting and for adjusting aircraft altimeters (as aircraft may fly between regions of varying normalized atmospheric pressure owing to the presence of weather systems). Aneroid barometers have a mechanical adjustment for altitude that allows the equivalent sea level pressure to be read directly and without further adjustment if the instrument is not moved to a different altitude. 

  

 

Transporting Barometers

 

Mercury barometers should be transported at an angle of about 45 degrees. In this position the mercury will have risen to fill the tube completely. The lower outlet in those that have one should be closed with the special plug designed for the purpose.

 

Because Aneroid Barometers do not contain liquid they may be carried in any manner providing they are not subjected to knocks or severe vibration. In addition they can be smaller and combined with other instruments. Some are the size of pocket watches.

 

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Using your Barometer or Barograph

 

Click here to download barometer instructions

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Watches - Dos and Don'ts

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Do you watch out for your watch?

• Do keep your watch dry. Water-resistant watches are protected from accidental wetting, but should be dried as soon as possible. (Also refer to handling of water-resistant watches below.)

• Don’t keep your watch in close contact with perfumes, powder, fine particles or chemicals.

• Don’t subject your watch to extreme temperatures or unusual or excessive shocks.

• Do take your watch to a competent watchmaker for necessary or periodic service to maintain accuracy and avoid premature wear.

• Don’t place your watch in strong magnetic fields close to electric motors, generators or televisions.

• Do wear your watch. Constant temperature is best for good timekeeping.