What is the definition of a tuning fork watch?

A tuning fork watch is a type of watch that uses a tuning fork as the oscillating element to keep time. It was first introduced by the Bulova Watch Company in 1960 and gained popularity in the following decades. The tuning fork, typically made of metal, vibrates at a specific frequency when an electric current is passed through it. These vibrations are used to regulate the movement of the watch, enabling it to keep accurate time. Inside a tuning fork watch, there is a small electric circuit that generates a current to drive the tuning fork. The vibrations of the fork are then converted into rotational movement through a series of gears and levers. These movements are used to power the watch's hands and other timekeeping functions. Tuning fork watches are known for their exceptional accuracy and reliability. With the constant vibrations of the tuning fork, they are less susceptible to external factors such as temperature variations and mechanical shocks. While they were popular during the 1960s and 1970s, the advent of quartz watches, which are even more accurate and affordable, led to a decline in the popularity of tuning fork watches. However, they still hold a special place in horological history and are often sought after by collectors.