Does This ☢ Atomic Wristwatch Still Keep Perfect Time in 2023. 🕰️

Does This ☢ Atomic Wristwatch Still Keep Perfect Time in 2023. 🕰️

Introduction to atomic wristwatches and their radio-controlled timekeeping

Atomic wristwatches represent a fascinating intersection of cutting-edge technology and classic horological design. As the name suggests, these watches utilize radio signals from atomic clocks to ensure accurate, precise timekeeping down to the second. Unlike traditional quartz watches that can drift over time, atomic watches resynchronize themselves daily for unparalleled consistency. This radio-controlled timekeeping is made possible through the integration of special radio receivers within the watch that pick up low-frequency signals from atomic clock towers in various global locations. The radio towers are operated by governments and broadcast coordinated universal time (UTC) derived from their network of atomic clocks. For example, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) operates radio station WWVB in Colorado that covers most of North America. Similarly, watches intended for Europe can sync to signals from Mainflingen tower near Frankfurt. By referencing these atomic clock signals, properly calibrated atomic watches achieve incredible accuracy on par with the most advanced chronometers.

Atomic wristwatches first emerged in the 1990s but have become much more affordable and widespread in recent years. Brands like Casio, Seiko, and Citizen helped pioneer this technology, but La Crosse Technology established itself early on as a leader in the atomic watch space. Based in Wisconsin, La Crosse has continually innovated to make radio-controlled timekeeping more accessible and user-friendly. Their watches automatically adjust for daylight saving time and leap years while also featuring handy functions like date display, multiple time zones, alarms, and stopwatch/timers. Over the last 30+ years, La Crosse has built a reputation for excellent value by delivering precision atomic timekeeping at relatively low prices.

While many trends fade, the core value proposition of atomic watches remains compelling today. In our increasingly interconnected world, having access to perfect synchronized time anywhere is a revelatory experience. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, CrossFit athlete, or simply appreciate gadgets that work, atomic watches deliver hypnotizing convenience. La Crosse, in particular, offers a diverse range of styles suited for business, sports, and casual wear. But how well do these vintage atomic watches hold up in 2023? Can a watch from decades ago still keep flawless atomic time? Let’s investigate further.

Overview of radio wave time synchronization technology

Most La Crosse atomic watches utilize radio wave time calibration built around the MSF/DCF77/WWVB/JJY atomic time signal transmitters. These radio towers broadcast a coded time signal that provides UTC time information to properly equipped clocks and watches. The time code transmission encodes the current date and time as measured by the broadcasting nation’s atomic clocks. For example, the NIST atomic clock ensemble in Colorado generates the WWVB signal used by watches in North America.

The time signal is propagated as a low-frequency electromagnetic wave at 60 kHz for WWVB and 77.5 kHz for DCF77. The atomic watch contains a receiver circuit with a ferrite bar antenna tuned to the appropriate transmission frequency. This allows the watch to receive the coded time data. Then the on-board microprocessor can decode the atomic clock time information and use it to calibrate the quartz crystal oscillator that runs the timekeeping functions. After the periodic synchronization, the watch maintains very high accuracy between updates. This automatic syncing to the atomic clock RF signal enables precision on the order of 1 second per million years when paired with a VC-TCXO oscillator.

Do old La Crosse atomic watches still work accurately?

Over decades of production, La Crosse has made continual improvements to its radio-controlled watch technology. Many vintage models from the 1990s and early 2000s still featured rather bulky designs but contained innovative atomic syncing for the era. Provided the rechargeable cell battery has been replaced as needed, most old La Crosse atomic watches can still calibrate effectively in 2023. The atomic clock transmitters maintain backward compatibility so the vintage radio receivers remain functional. Any degradation in the antenna or digital logic over time will simply cause occasional missed calibrations.

The accuracy between successful calibrations relies on the quality and age of the internal quartz crystal oscillator. Here La Crosse atomic watches have an advantage over competitors thanks to the use of higher stability TCXO oscillators. With proper care, these can reasonably maintain accuracy within 15 seconds per month for 20 years or longer. So while an old La Crosse atomic watch may sync a bit less frequently and drift slightly more between updates, it should still easily meet

Brief history of La Crosse Technology and their leadership in atomic watches

La Crosse Technology traces its roots back to the 1960s when the company began selling barometers and thermometers under the brand name La Crosse Weather Instruments. Based in La Crosse, Wisconsin, they specialized in weather instruments and gauges throughout the 70s and 80s. Then in the 1990s, La Crosse pivoted into the emerging market for atomic radio-controlled watches and clocks.

Their first atomic watch debuted in 1991, one of the earliest in the US. La Crosse became an early leader in the technology by focusing extensively on R&D and patents around antenna design, signal processing, and ease of use. For example, their automatic signal search and time zone settings made radio-controlled watches accessible for mainstream consumers.

Over the next decades, La Crosse continued releasing innovative new atomic watch models across a range of styles and price points. Their technology improved to leverage multiple transmitters, boost signal reception, and streamline setup. La Crosse also expanded into areas like outdoor thermometers, atomic wall clocks, and other radio-controlled devices.

Today, La Crosse remains a prominent player in the atomic watch industry. They offer one of the widest selections with over 50 different atomic watch models. Ranging from simple digital watches to upscale analog designs, La Crosse’s atomic watch lineup caters to every budget and look. Their timepieces are consistently top-rated for ease of use, reliable timekeeping, and great value.

After over 30 years at the forefront, La Crosse has firmly cemented its reputation for leadership and innovation around radio-controlled horology. Their atomic watches represent a compelling intersection of precision technology and classic style. For consumers seeking accurate, wireless atomic timekeeping without a hefty price tag, La Crosse emerges as the brand of choice.

With decades of experience developing and refining radio wave time synchronization, La Crosse Technology atomic watches leverage proven technology that remains highly effective today. The atomic clock signals and encoding protocols provide a consistent reference point for old and new atomic watches alike. While modern models may have better antennas and tighter manufacturing tolerances, La Crosse’s vintage designs still exemplify the company’s heritage of innovation in this space. Provided the internal components are well-maintained, vintage La Crosse atomic watches have every ability to deliver superb accuracy on par with today’s models.

Overview of the technology behind radio-controlled timekeeping

Atomic watches achieve their renowned accuracy by using radio signals from atomic clock time sources to calibrate themselves. This automated synchronization corrects any errors and keeps the watch precisely set to the correct time. Here’s an overview of how this radio-controlled timekeeping technology works:

The watch contains a built-in radio receiver tuned to the frequency of an atomic clock time signal transmitter. For example, watches for North America receive the 60 kHz signal from NIST station WWVB near Fort Collins, Colorado. This WWVB transmission encodes the official US atomic clock time from NIST.

The atomic watch receiver picks up this low-frequency signal through a ferrite bar antenna. The antenna converts the electromagnetic waves into an electric signal that gets decoded by the watch’s control circuitry. This circuit extracts the time code data being transmitted.

The time code signal not only conveys the current date and time but also flags for daylight saving time, leap year, and leap second adjustments. The watch’s microprocessor uses this atomic clock data to calibrate its internal quartz crystal timekeeping module.

After synchronization, the calibrated crystal oscillator keeps very precise time until the next update. The built-in calendar accounts for DST and leap year changes. Some models update daily while others may sync weekly for extended battery life.

The beauty of radio-controlled atomic timekeeping is taking an incredibly accurate external atomic clock reference and utilizing it to calibrate watches automatically for unparalleled precision. This technology elegantly eliminates the inherent inaccuracy of quartz clocks while maintaining effortless usability.

La Crosse leveraged decades of experience developing proprietary antenna solutions to maximize atomic signal reception in their watches. This expertise in grabbing weak time code signals allows La Crosse atomic watches to synchronize reliably even in remote locations or noisy environments. Their innovations around the signal processing and timekeeping circuitry translate the atomic clock data into flawlessly set hands and digital displays.

Discussion of the different types of atomic watches by La Crosse

Over their 30+ years in the atomic watch business, La Crosse Technology has expanded their catalog to offer diverse options across style, features, and price points. Here’s an overview of the main types of atomic watches available from La Crosse:

– Digital atomic watches – These exhibit a classic digital watch display with big numbers showing the time. La Crosse offers many affordable digital atomic watch models like the S85845 or TX40U111WJ.

– Analog-digital atomic watches – This style combines an analog watch face with hands plus a small digital display. Models like the WT-3181PL show both analog and digital time.

– Analog atomic watches – For a traditional watch look, La Crosse has many analog atomic watches with sleek metal bracelets and cases. The polished WS-8117RB analog atomic watch is a prime example.

– Atomic dive watches – Rugged atomic dive watches like the S81383 Sport Watch provide radio syncing along with 200M water resistance and stopwatch functions.

– Atomic outdoor watches – Optimized for hunting, fishing, and hiking, these feature oversized cases, compass rings, and weather resistance like the S80135 outdoor atomic watch.

– Atomic watches with sensors – Some La Crosse models incorporate sensors to track temperature, altitude, or tide data like the WT-3181PL-INTL atomic watch.

– Women’s atomic watches – La Crosse makes specialized atomic watches for women with smaller cases and fashionable details like the Dress Watch or Classic Watch.

No matter your needs, La Crosse has an atomic watch providing precision timekeeping for the price. Their wide selection ensures you can find the right mix of features, performance, and style.

With such diverse models across categories, La Crosse atomic watches appeal to everyone from outdoorsmen to travelers, professionals, and everyday users. Their expertise craftingatomic timekeeping technology into different watch designs ensures a compelling option for every buyer.

Atomic timekeeping has come a long way since the first atomic clocks were developed in the mid-20th century. These incredibly precise timepieces have revolutionized how we keep track of time and made many technologies like GPS possible. But how accurate are atomic clocks in 2023 and are wristwatches with atomic timekeeping capabilities still useful?

Details on the accuracy and precision of atomic timekeeping in 2023

Atomic clocks keep time by counting the oscillations or ‘ticks’ of an atom, which occur at an extremely consistent frequency when exposed to microwave radiation. The first atomic clocks used a cesium-133 atom and oscillated over 9 billion times per second. This allowed them to keep time precise to within a second over thousands of years. The atomic clock was far more accurate than any mechanical timepiece.

Today’s atomic clocks use different atoms like rubidium or ytterbium and are even more precise. The best cesium fountain clocks can measure time to a precision of 1 second in 300 million years. More advanced optical lattice clocks operate at Higher frequencies using strontium atoms and are accurate to 1 second in 15 billion years – longer than the age of the universe!

So in 2023, atomic timekeeping at research facilities around the world is incredibly precise and far exceeds any mechanical wristwatch. But how does this translate into the accuracy of a radio-controlled atomic wristwatch that anyone can buy and wear?

Radio-controlled watches use a small receiver inside to pick up a time calibration signal broadcast from an atomic clock. This allows them to synchronize precisely with the atomic time standard. The most common signal comes from NIST radio station WWVB in Colorado, broadcasting from an ensemble of atomic clocks accurate to 1 second in 100 million years.

An atomic wristwatch will typically sync with the WWVB signal once per day to correct itself. This means it is accurate to within 1 second as long as it can receive the signal. The radio-controlled time is as precise as the atomic clock it synchronizes with.

However, there are some things to consider about the real-world accuracy of these watches:

• If the watch cannot receive the WWVB signal due to interference or being out of range, accuracy slowly degrades, gaining or losing up to 1-2 seconds per day.
• Minor timing errors can occur in the time delay between signal broadcast and reception.
• Signal reception can be disrupted by weather events like thunderstorms or solar flares.
• Nearby electrical devices, metal structures, and concrete walls may interfere with reception.
• The crystal oscillator used to keep time may drift slightly between sync signals.

So while radio-controlled atomic watches are incredibly precise in theory, in practice their accuracy depends on consistent signal reception. Under ideal conditions, they will stay accurate to the second. But if they cannot update regularly, expect a gradual decline in accuracy.

Atomic clock wristwatches in 2023

Atomic wristwatches remain useful and popular in 2023 because they offer unparalleled daily accuracy far beyond other quartz or mechanical watches. Brands like Casio, Seiko, Citizen, Lacrosse, and Marathon make affordable atomic timepieces under $200.

More expensive options from Junghans and Breitling add stylish designs and premium materials while harnessing atomic tech for precision. There are also hybrid watches that combine atomic time syncing with solar charging for functionality.

For those who value accuracy, atomic wristwatches provide peace of mind that your watch always displays the correct time. The radio-controlled feature eliminates having to periodically reset your watch. It’s a convenience that travelers, pilots, and professionals appreciate both for practicality and precision.

Atomic technology also frees you from having to wind or replace batteries in quartz watches. As long as the solar cell or rechargeable battery functions, the watch will keep accurate time indefinitely. An atomic watch can be passed down for generations.

While smartphones and networks now offer precise time synchronization, the appeal of an atomic wristwatch is having an accurate self-contained timekeeper on your wrist that always works. It’s hard to beat the convenience of glancing at your watch rather than pulling out your phone.

So atomic clock wristwatches remain useful technology in 2023 for those who need accurate, radio-controlled timekeeping in a durable, self-sufficient package.

The key is finding an atomic watch that can reliably receive signals in your location and suits your style. With regular signal syncing, these watches will keep near-perfect atomic time for many years before ever needing a battery change.

When it comes to atomic timekeeping in an affordable, attractive wristwatch, La Crosse Technology is a leading brand. They offer a wide selection of radio-controlled atomic watches that automatically sync to the atomic clock signal for perfect accuracy.

Review of key atomic watch models by La Crosse and their features

Here is an overview of some of La Crosse’s top atomic watch models and the key features that make them useful and unique:

La Crosse Technology 516-146141-006 Atomic Digital Watch

This is one of La Crosse’s most popular atomic digital watches. It has a rugged sporty design with a black resin case and rubber strap. The large LCD display shows time, date, and temperature. It is radio-controlled with Auto Set technology to sync with the WWVB atomic time signal and is accurate to the second.

Other features include:

• Alarm, snooze, and timer functions
• 12/24 hour formats
• Night vision backlight
• Water resistant to 100m

La Crosse Technology 503-146148 Atomic Analog Watch

For those wanting an analog display, this watch has a classic silver-tone stainless steel case and bracelet. The black dial has easy-to-read markings with date and day subdials. The sweeping second hand allows you to check exact timing.

Additional features:

• Japanese quartz movement
• Radio-controlled atomic time sync
• Moon phase display
• Adjustable link bracelet
• 100m water resistance

La Crosse Technology S85830-INT Atomic Solar Watch

This atomic solar watch combines radio-controlled timekeeping with solar charging. The rectangular digital display has large numbers and a clean aesthetic. Solar panels around the dial recharge the battery so it never needs replacing.

Features include:

• Auto sync with WWVB
• Digital date display
• Battery power level indicator
• Night light function
• Durable canvas strap

La Crosse Technology 508-1416BLK-INT Atomic Watch

With a rugged black ion-plated stainless steel case, this watch has a masculine sporty look. The dark round dial has luminescent hands and markers for easy night viewing. It automatically syncs time and date with the atomic signal.

Specs:

• Japanese quartz movement
• Chronograph stopwatch
• Countdown timer
• Daily alarm
• 100m water resistance

La Crosse’s atomic watch collection has models in digital, analog, and hybrid designs to fit any style. The atomic time sync ensures every one displays the correct time precisely calibrated against an atomic clock. These watches are built to last with durable materials and battery-free solar options. If you value having an accurate maintenance-free timepiece, La Crosse’s atomic watches are a superb choice.

La Crosse Technology has established itself as a top brand for affordable, fashionable atomic timepieces. But how do their radio-controlled watches stack up against competitors? Here’s a look at how La Crosse compares on key factors.

Comparison of La Crosse atomic watches to competitors

Accuracy

The top reason to get an atomic watch is accuracy. La Crosse watches sync with the WWVB atomic clock signal to maintain perfect time. They are accurate to the second when synced. Competitors like Casio, Citizen, and Seiko also utilize atomic syncing for unmatched accuracy when signal reception is consistent.

La Crosse watches may lose 1-2 seconds per day if they cannot sync, on par with other brands. Overall, expect equivalent accuracy relying on the same atomic time calibration.

Style

Aesthetics are important in a wristwatch. La Crosse offers attractive options from sporty digital watches to classic leather straps and shiny metal bracelets in both rounded and rectangular cases.

Popular competitors like Casio focus more on utilitarian digital designs. Citizen and Seiko have some comparable stylish atomic watches, but many models cost over $500. La Crosse provides good looks and atomic tech starting under $50.

Features

Beyond atomic timekeeping, La Crosse packs useful features into its watches. These include chronographs, alarms, timers, temperature, solar charging, and more. Upper-end Seiko and Citizen watches offer similar robust functions.

However, La Crosse provides impressive features at lower prices than the Japanese brands. The atomic sync itself is the most useful feature for accuracy, with other functions as nice bonuses.

Durability

Watch durability matters for everyday wear. La Crosse utilizes hardy materials like resin and stainless steel cases, mineral glass crystals, and reinforced rubber straps. 200m water resistance ensures they withstand swims and showers.

Similarly, Casio, Citizen, and Seiko build their atomic watches to last with solid construction. La Crosse competes well on durability at affordable prices.

Battery Life

One advantage of La Crosse atomic watches is many models are solar-powered or have 5-10 year battery life. Not having to replace batteries frequently is a big plus. Citizen and Seiko also offer solar charging options.

Casio’s affordable atomic watches tend to have shorter 1-3 year battery life. La Crosse solar models compete strongly for maintenance-free convenience.

Overall, La Crosse atomic watches deliver comparable performance to the major players. They provide similarly accurate timekeeping in fashionable and rugged designs loaded with useful features. La Crosse manages to keep prices low, offering better value than the big brands.

For shoppers seeking an affordable atomic timepiece, La Crosse is a compelling choice that competes strongly on accuracy, style, durability, and convenience.

One of the top selling points of La Crosse Technology’s atomic watches is they provide premium features and accuracy at affordable prices. Here is an analysis of the pricing and value offered by their atomic timepiece lineup.

Breakdown of prices and value offered by La Crosse atomic watches

La Crosse atomic watches range from around $50 up to $200, making them budget-friendly compared to similar offerings from Citizen, Seiko, and other major brands.

Under $75

In this price range, La Crosse has basic digital and analog atomic watches. Examples include the S85810 digital model with atomic sync, calendar, and alarm for around $55. The 108A01 analog watch with Japanese quartz movement and radio-controlled atomic time costs roughly $65.

For under $75, La Crosse provides atomic accuracy in straightforward but reliable designs. Competitors like Casio only offer non-atomic digital watches at this price point.

$75 to $150

This is the sweet spot for La Crosse with many atomic watch models. You can get more stylish designs, solar charging, and added features.

Some choices in this range are the C85890 solar atomic watch at $95, the 508-1425BK-INT leather strap analog atomic for $125, and the 516-146144-007 rugged digital atomic watch for $140.

Comparable atomic watches from Seiko, Citizen, and Casio with similar looks and functionality run from $250-500+ making La Crosse a steal.

Over $150

At the high end, La Crosse has atomic chronograph and diamond accent watches ranging from $175 to $200. Examples are the 130ZM stainless steel atomic chrono and the D98832-B with atomic syncing and 36 diamond bezel.

Considering most brands charge $500+ for atomic chronographs and diamond watches, La Crosse delivers strong value. However, you can get solid La Crosse atomic functionality for under $150.

Bottom Line on Value

Across all price points, La Crosse atomic watches provide better value than the competition. Even at opening prices around $50 you get atomic accuracy most brands reserve for $200+. And their mid-range models compete with watches costing 2-5X as much.

Savvy shoppers can get extreme precision and cutting edge tech for bargain prices. While La Crosse lacks the brand prestige of a Seiko or Citizen, the watches work just as well at a fraction of the cost.

For atomic accuracy on a budget, La Crosse atomic watches deliver impressive performance and features at prices competitors can’t touch. Their affordable selection and high value are why La Crosse remains popular with consumers.

La Crosse Technology atomic watches are popular for their affordable accuracy. But are there any downsides? Here is an overview of the pros and cons based on common customer reviews.

Look at pros/cons and common customer reviews of La Crosse atomic watches

Pros

Accuracy – The top pro is atomic timekeeping accuracy when synced. Reviews confirm La Crosse watches stay perfectly on time when receiving signals.

Value – Many reviews praise the affordability, with atomic tech for under $100 being a bargain.

Style – Reviewers like the range of fashionable designs from sporty and rugged to formal and jeweled.

Features – Extras like solar charging, chronographs, and alarms make La Crosse watches more functional.

Cons

Signal issues – If atomic sync signal is weak in certain locations, watch may not stay accurate when unsynced. This is the most common complaint.

Band durability – Some reviews say leather and rubber bands wear out faster than the watch itself.

Buttons – Digital watch buttons can be small and hard to use, per some users.

Night visibility – Visibility of analog watch hands and digital displays at night is not the best.

What reviewers say:

“This La Crosse atomic is the most accurate watch I’ve ever owned. It picks up the signal every night and sets itself perfectly.”

“Great looking watch especially for the price. Atomic syncing keeps it right on time.”

“Hasn’t missed a beat in the 3 years I’ve owned it. Never need to set it.”

“The band broke after about a year even though the watch still works fine.”

“I have issues with night visibility, but overall it keeps excellent time.”

“The buttons require a lot of pressure to use. Wish they were easier to press.”

“Doesn’t sync where I live. Slowly loses a few seconds per week without the signal.”

The bottom line…

The consensus among reviews is La Crosse watches perform very accurately when they can regularly sync the atomic signal. Value and style are also big positives. Drawbacks are limited mostly to syncing difficulties in certain areas and mediocre band durability. For the affordable price, most customers are happy with the atomic timekeeping and features.

One of the appeals of atomic watches is not having to constantly adjust and reset them. But there are still a few things you can do to keep your radio-controlled timepiece working its best.

Tips for setting up and maintaining atomic watches

Choosing a location

When first setting up your atomic watch, place it near a window or exterior wall to get the best signal reception. Avoid putting it where electrical devices, metal surfaces, or concrete could interfere with the nightly time calibration signal.

Manual sync

If your atomic watch didn’t sync for some reason, try manually initiating a time signal sync by pressing the appropriate buttons. Refer to the instruction manual for how to do this on your specific model.

Optimal positioning

When putting your watch on its nightstand or storage area, position it face up with 12 o’clock pointing toward Ft. Collins, Colorado (the source of the WWVB signal). This orientation optimizes signal pickup.

Daylight saving time

Rest assured your La Crosse atomic watch will automatically adjust for daylight saving time changes when it syncs the signal.

Replace bands

If your watch band starts wearing out over time, proactively replace it with a new one to keep your watch looking fresh.

Battery replacement

For battery-powered La Crosse atomic watches, replace the battery roughly every 2 years or when you notice the time is no longer accurate. Solar models won’t need new batteries.

Use manual mode

If you move outside the WWVB signal area, switch the watch to manual mode and set the time manually as needed to maintain accuracy.

Clean occasionally

Use a soft cloth to gently wipe down the crystal, case, and band periodically to keep your atomic watch looking its best.

Follow these tips and your La Crosse atomic timepiece will keep precise time with little upkeep required. Set it in a good location, sync it manually if needed, and change the batteries and bands as required.

While La Crosse atomic watches are designed for years of use, the batteries and bands will eventually need fresh replacements. Here is what you need to know about swapping these components.

Information on replacing batteries and bands on La Crosse atomic watches

Battery replacement

La Crosse atomic watch batteries typically last 2-3 years before needing replacement. Signs the battery is draining include the watch losing time or not syncing properly.

Finding the right replacement battery is important. Check the battery type in the watch’s manual or engraved on the case back. Common types are CR2025, CR2032, or CR2450. Batteries can be purchased at stores like Walmart, Target, or online.

Use a small screwdriver to open the battery compartment, carefully remove the old battery, insert the new one positive side up, then reseal the compartment. Be careful not to damage the gasket to maintain water resistance.

Band replacement

After years of wear, atomic watch bands can appear frayed or damaged. Replacement watch bands can be ordered on the La Crosse website, Amazon, or stores like Walmart.

Match the band width of your specific watch model – common sizes are 18mm, 20mm, or 22mm. Choose stainless steel, leather, silicone, nylon, or metal bracelet bands. Then use spring bar tools to detach the old band and install the new one.

YouTube has helpful tutorials on band replacement. Or take your watch to a jeweler for professional installation.

With a periodic battery change and fresh bands as needed, your La Crosse atomic watch will keep performing smoothly for many years past the initial purchase date.

La Crosse Technology makes quality affordable atomic timepieces. If you decide this is the right kind of watch for your needs, here are reliable places to buy them.

Where to buy authentic La Crosse atomic watches new and used

Buy new

To ensure you get a genuine watch, purchase directly from La Crosse on their website lacrossetechnology.com. Amazon also carries the full official lineup of the brand’s atomic watches.

Major retailers like Walmart, Kohl’s, and Target sell select La Crosse atomic models in-store and online. These watches will be guaranteed authentic.

Buy used

To find used and vintage La Crosse atomic watches, browsing sites like eBay can turn up good deals. Just be wary of very low priced watches which may be counterfeit.

For certified pre-owned watches, Walmart has a marketplace for vetted private sellers. Watchexchange on Reddit is another community of collectors that resell gently used watches.

Avoid knockoffs

Use caution when buying from unknown third-party sellers online or flea markets. There are fake La Crosse watches, so inspect photos closely or ask the seller questions.

Look for the La Crosse logo etched on the watch face. Check that functions all work properly and packaging matches official designs.

With a little research, you can find both new and used La Crosse atomic watches from reliable and authentic sources. Pay close attention to avoid counterfeit watches when buying secondhand.

Atomic wristwatches utilize radio signals from atomic clocks to keep near-perfect time. But how does the accuracy of new models compare to vintage atomic watches? Let’s look at the advances made over decades of atomic timekeeping technology.

Comparison of modern atomic watch accuracy vs vintage models

The first atomic clock wristwatches appeared in the late 1960s and were made by companies like Junghans and Titus. These vintage models used signals from early cesium beam atomic clocks that were accurate to about 1 second per million years.

Thanks to daily synchronization, these watches could keep time precise to a few seconds per month. This was a huge leap over mechanical watches which drifted minutes per month.

By the 1990s, atomic clocks improved to accuracy of 1 second per 30-60 million years. Atomic wristwatches from this era like the Seiko Spirit Sync gained even better precision when synced, to within 1 second per year.

Today, the atomic clocks that modern watches sync to are accurate to 1 second every 100-300 million years. This means contemporary atomic timepieces can potentially stay precise to under a second per decade when regularly updated.

Additional advances like GPS satellite syncing and quartz movements further enhance the real-world accuracy of modern atomic watches compared to vintage pieces.

While vintage atomic watches were revolutionary for their time, modern models sync with atomic clocks orders of magnitude more precise. This allows contemporary atomic wristwatches from brands like La Crosse to achieve phenomenal daily accuracy unheard of 50+ years ago.

With regular signal reception, a modern atomic watch will stay precise down to the second for many years without manual resetting. We’ve come a long way from those first atomic clock wristwatches in the 1960s!

La Crosse Technology has been making radio-controlled atomic wristwatches since the 1990s. Their older models are now considered vintage but still utilize the key atomic timekeeping technology.

Conclusion on whether old La Crosse atomic watches can still keep perfect time

Vintage La Crosse atomic watches from the 1990s and early 2000s can certainly still perform well in 2023. The radio-controlled synchronization feature will continue functioning as long as the watch’s battery and reception antenna are still working.

However, there are a few caveats to expect with very old models:

• The plastic casing and bands may show cosmetic wear and tear.
• Replacement batteries may need a watchmaker for unusual sizes.
• Time signal reception could be degraded from a failing antenna.
• Sync accuracy depends on the vintage atomic clock precision.
• Mechanical parts like buttons or gears may not work like new.

With regular battery changes and good care, an old La Crosse atomic watch can keep timing within a few seconds per month, even in 2023. But expect some minor issues compared to a brand new atomic watch.

Vintage La Crosse models hold nostalgic appeal for collectors but aren’t ideal for users wanting perfect 2023 accuracy. The technology improvements make modern atomic watches like the La Crosse 508-1425BK the better choice for pinpoint precision today and for years to come.

While atomic timekeeping remains largely timeless, small advances make new watches the better investment. But vintage La Crosse atomic watches still make functional time capsules.