A timepiece that can measure and display time intervals, typically a stopwatch or watch with stopwatch functions. It records elapsed time precisely for timing events or processes.
From Greek 'chronos' meaning time and 'graphos' meaning writing or recording. The term emerged in the mid-19th century when mechanical timepieces capable of recording time intervals were first developed for scientific and sporting applications.
The chronograph was revolutionary for aviation and motorsports, allowing pilots and racers to time crucial intervals with split-second precision. Modern Swiss chronographs can measure time to 1/10th of a second, and the distinctive pusher buttons on luxury watches are a direct descendant of this timing technology.
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