The NH35 Movement: Why Is It the Benchmark in Accessible Watchmaking?
If you're interested in automatic watches, you've probably come across the name NH35. This mechanical movement manufactured by Seiko Instruments has, in just a few years, become the absolute benchmark in the segment of quality, affordable watches. It's what powers A★Star watches.
What is an NH35 movement?
The NH35 is an automatic movement — meaning it winds itself automatically through wrist movements, without a battery or external intervention. It is produced by Seiko Instruments (SII), a subsidiary of the Seiko group specializing in the manufacture of movements for the global watch industry.
Technical characteristics of the NH35
- Frequency: 21,600 vibrations per hour (6 beats per second)
- Power reserve: approximately 41 hours
- Number of jewels: 24
- Central second hand: yes, with seconds display
- Date window: yes, at 3 o'clock
- Manual winding: possible via the crown
Why is the NH35 so popular?
The NH35 owes its popularity to a rare balance between reliability, precision, and price. Manufactured in Seiko factories, it benefits from Japanese quality standards, renowned for their rigor. Its typical precision is between -10 and +30 seconds per day, which is excellent for a movement in this price range.
It is also very robust, easy to maintain, and its spare parts are widely available. For a watchmaker, the NH35 is a movement they know inside and out.
The NH35 at A★Star
At A★Star, we chose the NH35 because it perfectly matches our philosophy: to offer a true mechanical watch that is reliable and durable, without compromising on quality. Each movement is tested on a timegrapher before assembly, and the watch undergoes a 48-hour water resistance check before shipping.
The transparent sapphire case back on some models allows you to admire the movement in action — a real pleasure for enthusiasts.
