How to Use a Tachymeter: 11 Steps
A tachymeter is a useful tool found on the bezel of many watches, particularly chronograph watches. It is used to measure speed based on the time it takes to travel a certain distance. With some practice, you can quickly learn how to use your watch’s tachymeter function in 11 easy steps.
1.Learn the basics:Understand that tachymeters work with a scale that is marked on the bezel of your watch. The numbers on this scale usually range from 60 to 400.
2.Identify the units:Make sure you know whether your tachymeter measures speed in miles per hour (mph) or kilometers per hour (kph). This should be indicated on the watch face or in its user manual.
3.Find the stopwatch:Locate the chronograph function on your watch, which will serve as a stopwatch.
4.Ready, set, go:Choose a starting point and begin timing when an object (like a car) begins moving. Start your watch’s chronograph as soon as the object starts moving.
5.Measure distance:Track how long it takes for the object to travel a specific distance, like one mile or one kilometer.
6.Stop the stopwatch:As soon as the object has traveled that specific distance, stop your chronograph.
7.Check elapsed time:Note down how many seconds it took for the object to travel that distance, using your chronograph’s second hand and sub-dial if necessary.
8.Locate measurement on tachymeter scale: Find the reading on your watch’s tachymeter that corresponds to the elapsed time you recorded in step 7.
9.Read speed:The number indicated by your stopwatch hand or sub-dial at this point on the tachymeter is an estimation of the object’s speed in either mph or kph.
10.Reset chronograph:Before attempting to use the tachymeter feature again, reset your watch’s stopwatch by pressing the designated button.
11.Practice makes perfect: Using a tachymeter may require some practice, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t master it right away. Keep trying different scenarios and distances until you become comfortable with the process.
By following these 11 steps, you can learn how to use your watch’s tachymeter function effectively and add an additional skill to your timekeeping arsenal. Whether you’re at the racetrack or simply tracking a passing car, a tachymeter can be a handy way to gauge speed on the fly.