Watch GlossaryAltimeter
An altimeter function in a watch helps to measure the altitude at your current location based on accumulated atmospheric pressure changes measured by the pressure sensor
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What is altimeter in a watch?
One of the most useful features in a watch for an outdoor enthusiast is the altimeter. An altimeter is a function in watches that helps measure the altitude. By measuring the atmospheric pressure, the watch is able to measure the altitude above sea level or a relative fixed point and provide the information in either feet or meters. Apart from measuring the current altitude, the altimeter watches can also display other important information like speed, temperature and rate of ascent or descent. Usually altimeter watches also have a built-in-compass to help you find the directions properly. A fine example of a watch with an altimeter function is the Favre Leuba Raider Bivouac 9000. While commemorating their 280th anniversary at Baselworld in 2017, Favre Leuba introduced the Bivouac 9000, a watch designed for extreme heights.
The Bivouac 9000 can effortlessly measure altitudes up to 9,000m above sea level and also features an aneroid barometer—a clever addition that allows the watch to gauge altitude based on changes in air pressure. This remarkable fusion of craftsmanship and functionality makes it a truly unique offering and explains why the watch that can measure altitude anywhere on Earth has remained so desirable ever since its addition to the contemporary collection of watches by Favre Leuba.
It is driven by the hand-wound FL311 movement, which is based on the EMC 3903M calibre, and delivers a substantial power reserve of around 65 hours. This impressive engine enables various functions, including hours, minutes, small seconds, a central hand to display altitudes of 3,000m per full rotation, and a sub-dial for displaying altitudes of up to 9,000m and air pressure in hPa. Additionally, there are power reserve and date displays as well.
The best way to calibrate an altimeter is to adjust your reference altitude on a daily basis. To get an exact initial altitude follow google earth as it is the most accurate altitude readings. The altimeter acts as a gauge which can give the best estimate of current altitude if the initial base readings are taken in a stable weather. Most of the time, the altitude reading shown by the altimeter varies from the real altitude, by about 3 feet or so. In spite of the fact that altimeter watches do not always show the correct readings, they are popular just because they are portable and easy to use.
A perfect companion for those who indulge in adventure sports, a watch with an altimeter will make your life much easier while you go trekking or hiking. The altimeter works on the relation between the atmospheric pressure and altimeter. The atmospheric pressure decreases as the altitude increases. Basically, the altimeter watch converts biometric pressure into altitude. The barometer is built inside the watch itself. Calibrating an altimeter is extremely simple. Since the altimeter will help you determine the atmospheric pressure at specific areas, simply set your exact altitude. One can do that by using Google Maps which provides accurate altitude readings. Once the altimeter is calibrated, you can let the adventures begin.
