Why is there no sweep second hand in a quartz watch?

[Flaxmoore]

Originally Posted by nylawbiz

It's the nature of analog vs. digital technology. Digital is yes/no; on/off; 1/0. Nothing in between. Everything incremental. Analog technology is continuous; as in the uncoiling of a spring. A constant movement; that is translated into the ratcheting of teeth in a gear. Does that make sense?

It makes perfect sense, but there is one problem. Why is the on/off set at 1 second intervals? It seems as if it would be a fairly simple matter to set it to 1/10 second, or even 1/6 to keep it in base 60.

[nylawbiz]

Originally Posted by Flaxmoore

It makes perfect sense, but there is one problem. Why is the on/off set at 1 second intervals? It seems as if it would be a fairly simple matter to set it to 1/10 second, or even 1/6 to keep it in base 60.

Not sure, but I would venture to guess it has to do with the limitations of the mechanics of the watch.

[gregdolley]

Originally Posted by Flaxmoore

It makes perfect sense, but there is one problem. Why is the on/off set at 1 second intervals? It seems as if it would be a fairly simple matter to set it to 1/10 second, or even 1/6 to keep it in base 60.

I heard that it's once every second to conserve battery life.