Having said that, many manufacturers, such as Rado and Cartier, have never made their own mechanisms. Replacement parts for all these brands are expensive. The main differences between a lower grade and a higher grade watch is primarily in the hairspring and balance wheel, not in the rest of the watch mechanism, which is particularly obvious if you compare different ebauche movements. There are, however, some less expensive watches that perform exceptionally well. If you need a chronograph, use a digital quartz watch, which is inexpensive and works more accurately.
Many mechanical chronographs are exceptionally difficult and expensive to repair.
The paradox is that analog chronographs have become very popular, both as mechanical and quartz watches, because of their attractive appearance. Enjoy the photos of a Bulova Accutron. This extraordinary watch has a tuning fork, which you can see in the photos. An incredible piece of engineering, the Bulova Accutron is exceptionally well made. Despite this, be cautious before buying one.