This page is an attempt to explain in simple terms the different types of Quartz watch movements available today.
Click the pictures below for a larger view.
Type Advantages Disadvantages 
Cheapest movement to make. Low parts count
Very accurate in relationship to cost.
Battery must be replaced when depleted (usually 2-3 years). Movements are so low cost that repair is impractical.
Replacement is often the only repair and depends on whether the movement is still available.
Very accurate movement. Low parts count makes movement rugged.
Use of rechargeable cell allows many extra watch features and extremely long time on a charge (up to 500 days).
Least owner involvement, just wear it in light and it recharges !
All rechargeable cells have a finite number of charge/discharge cycles and will eventually have to be replaced. Use of this movement in single piece, closed back cases means that the watch has to be serviced by someone who has the equipment to open these cases.
Cells can be expensive ($39.00).
Very accurate high quality movement. Latest models have elaborate power management which extends charge life up to 4 years.
A capacitor (which is what the Kinetic Power Unit essentially is) has a practically unlimited life compared to a button cell.
Must be worn frequently to keep the charge up. Not suited to inactive persons.
Occasional reports of short power unit life.
Use of capacitor does not provide enough energy reserve to run many functions.
Power units may be expensive to replace ($40-$60).
Very accurate movement. Use of rechargeable cell allows many extra watch features and extremely long time on a charge (up to 500 days).
All the features of a Seiko Kinetic with a much longer charge life due to use of a rechargeable cell.
All rechargeable cells have a finite number of charge/discharge cycles and will eventually have to be replaced. Cells can be expensive ($39.00).
