
( Brand: Esa ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 923.031 ), ( Compatible Brand: Eta, Esa ), ( Type: Movement ), ( Movement Type: Quartz ), ( Material: Steel ), ( Country Of Origin: Switzerland )
The **ESA 923.031 (No. 923.031-5)** is a meticulously crafted Swiss-made mechanical movement, renowned for its precision engineering and timeless elegance, embodying the pinnacle of horological innovation. This automatic chronograph movement, developed by ETA (now part of Swatch Group), is a refined masterpiece designed for high-end wristwatches, offering an unparalleled blend of functionality and sophistication. At its core, the 923.031-5 is a 21-jewel, 28,800 vibrations per hour (2 Hz) movement, ensuring exceptional accuracy and smooth operation with a power reserve of approximately 50 hours when fully wound. The electronic setting mechanism, a hallmark of modern chronograph movements, allows for effortless start, stop, and reset functions with a single push of the crown, eliminating the need for multiple adjustments and enhancing user convenience without compromising the mechanical integrity of the timepiece.
This movement is built with a robust and reliable architecture, featuring a high-quality steel or gold-plated components where applicable, to withstand the rigors of daily wear. The chronograph function is driven by a separate set of gears and a dedicated hairspring, ensuring precise lap timing with a maximum count of 30 minutes, while the date display when incorporated operates seamlessly with a 24-hour format, accommodating both civilian and military timekeeping preferences. The 923.031-5 is particularly celebrated for its versatility, making it a favored choice among watchmakers for creating everything from sleek dress chronographs to rugged sports watches, thanks to its compact yet powerful design. The movement s ability to integrate with various case sizes and dial configurations further underscores its adaptability, allowing for endless customization possibilities.
Under the hood, the 923.031-5 showcases ESA s (now ETA) signature attention to detail, with features such as a high-torque automatic rotor for efficient power generation, a robust escapement system for consistent timekeeping, and a meticulously calibrated balance wheel for optimal accuracy. The inclusion of a **24-hour format** ensures that this movement is not only practical for everyday use but also highly functional for professionals who require precise timekeeping across extended periods. Whether paired with a minimalist dial or an intricate guilloch pattern, the 923.031-5 movement delivers a harmonious fusion of artistry and engineering, making it a sought-after component for watchmakers aiming to create timepieces that are as durable as they are desirable. Its Swiss heritage guarantees a legacy of craftsmanship, reliability, and innovation, ensuring that any watch equipped with this movement will stand as a testament to the art of horology.
### **Pros and Cons of Buying an ETA 923.031 Movement (NOS 923.031-5, Swiss, Electronic Setting, 24h Display)**
#### **Pros**
1. **High-Quality Swiss Movement** The ETA 923.031 is a well-regarded Swiss mechanical movement known for its reliability and precision. Swiss-made movements are often associated with better craftsmanship and durability compared to some Asian alternatives.
2. **24-Hour Display** The electronic setting feature allows for quick time adjustments without manual winding, which is convenient for everyday wear. The 24-hour format is useful for professionals who work in non-12-hour schedules.
3. **Automatic Winding** Being automatic means the watch self-winds with motion, reducing the need for frequent manual winding. This makes it more practical for daily use.
4. **Good Accuracy** While not as precise as a chronometer (COSC-certified), the 923.031 is generally accurate enough for most wearers, typically losing or gaining a few seconds per day.
5. **Affordable Compared to Full Swiss Brands** While not cheap, this movement is more accessible than high-end Swiss movements (e.g., ETA 2824-2 or Seiko NH35), making it a cost-effective choice for those who want Swiss quality without the premium price of Rolex or Omega.
6. **Widely Available in Second-Hand & New Models** Due to its popularity, you can find watches with this movement in both new and pre-owned markets, often at reasonable prices.
7. **Durable Construction** The 923.031 is built to last, with a robust design that can handle regular wear and tear, though it is not water-resistant without a proper case.
8. **Easy to Service** Being a common movement, spare parts and servicing are widely available, making maintenance straightforward.
---
#### **Cons**
1. **Not Chronometer-Certified (COSC)** The 923.031 is not certified by the Swiss Observatory (COSC), meaning its accuracy may vary slightly more than a chronometer. While this is rarely an issue for daily wear, it may be a concern for enthusiasts who prioritize precision.
2. **Electronic Setting Can Be Inconsistent** The electronic setting feature (often called "quickset" or "date adjustment") can sometimes be finicky, especially in lower-quality cases. Some users report issues with the mechanism failing over time, though this is more common in poorly made watches.
3. **Limited Water Resistance** The movement itself is not water-resistant; the watch s waterproof rating depends entirely on the case and sealing. A 923.031-powered watch is typically only water-resistant up to 30 meters (100 feet) if properly sealed, which may not be sufficient for swimming or diving.
4. **Potential for Wear Over Time** Like all mechanical movements, the 923.031 will eventually wear out, typically after 25,000 30,000 hours (roughly 3 4 years of daily wear). While servicing can extend its life, it will eventually need replacement.
5. **Dependence on Case Quality** The reliability of the watch as a whole depends heavily on the case and brand. Some budget brands may cut corners on materials or assembly, leading to issues like loose screws, poor water resistance, or unreliable date functions.
6. **No Hand-Winding Option** Since it s automatic, you cannot manually wind it if it stops. This can be inconvenient if the watch runs down unexpectedly.
7. **Limited Customization** Unlike some higher-end movements, the 923.031 does not offer features like power reserve indicators, moon phases, or other complications, keeping it a simple but functional timepiece.
---
### **Ending Conclusion**
The **ETA 923.031** is an excellent choice for those seeking a **reliable, Swiss-made automatic watch with a 24-hour display and electronic setting** at a relatively affordable price. It strikes a balance between quality and practicality, making it ideal for everyday wear. However, it is not without limitations its lack of chronometer certification, potential electronic setting issues, and dependence on case quality mean it may not be perfect for everyone.
If you prioritize **durability, Swiss engineering, and convenience**, this movement is a strong option. However, if you need **ultimate precision, water resistance beyond 30m, or additional complications**, you may want to consider alternatives like the **ETA 2824-2, Seiko NH35, or a COSC-certified movement**.
---
### **Recommendation**
**Buy the ETA 923.031 if:**- You want a **Swiss-made automatic watch** with a **24-hour display** and **quick time setting**.
- You prefer **affordability** without sacrificing too much quality.
- You plan to **service the watch regularly** (every 3 5 years) to ensure longevity.
- You choose a **reputable brand or case** (e.g., Orient, Tissot, or a well-known second-hand seller) to minimize risks of poor assembly.
**Avoid the ETA 923.031 if:**- You need **high water resistance** (e.g., for swimming or diving).
- You require **chronometer accuracy** (COSC certification).
- You dislike **electronic setting mechanisms** and prefer manual adjustments.
- You are buying from an **untrusted seller** with no warranty or service history.
**Final Verdict:** The **923.031 is a solid, practical choice** for most casual and semi-serious watch enthusiasts, provided you select a **well-made case and maintain it properly**. For those who want something more premium, exploring **ETA 2824-2 or Seiko NH35** may be worth the extra cost.
Pushers, 1 gold and silver. Sets,Runs,Keeps Time 24hr. Include 2 x 1.5mm Diam. Electronic minute and hour setting function working perfectly.
NOS ESA 923.031-5 J Swiss Movement.Electronic Setting.