Tungsten is one of the most intriguing materials on the planet due to its robust nature. This metal has an incredibly high melting point and an even higher boiling point, ensuring that it is able to withstand even the most inhospitable environments. Tungsten has many uses in both industry and jewellery and is a great material for fans of high quality materials and technology. This material has been used for over 350 years and has been found in countries all around the globe. If you are interested in this fascinating material, keep reading for our guide to answer the question, ‘what is tungsten?’
What is Tungsten?
Tungsten is a metal that is found in the minerals wolframite, scheelite and huebnertie and ferberite. In its purest form, it is a silvery white powder. However, this form of the metal is very volatile and can spontaneously ignite. For this reason, it is often used in various other forms. Pure tungsten is quite a soft substance, so the metal is often made into compounds to ensure that it is very robust. The metal has been found in various locations including China, Russia, Portugal, South Korea, Bolivia, Great Britain and the United States of America. Despite being found in many countries, the majority of the world’s supply of this material is controlled by China.
In order to separate tungsten from the minerals that it is found in, tungsten oxide has to be reduced with hydrogen or carbon. Once this process is complete, tungsten can be made into alloys. Tungsten alloys are incredibly hard and robust, making them very resilient to damage from other materials. Due to this, diamond is often used to shape and create tungsten tools and other items. In some cases, diamond is the only material harder than tungsten alloys. This means that it is the only material that can cut through them.
What is Tungsten Used For?
Similarly to many other metals, tungsten has many uses. It is a very useful metal due to its very hard nature. Tungsten compounds are sometimes used in tools in order to strengthen saws and drill bits, improving their ability to cut through strong materials. Tungsten carbide is the compound that is most often used for this purpose. Tungsten carbide is also sometimes used in the creation of jewellery, such as wedding bands. It is a great choice for the creation of wedding bands as the rings will be long lasting and resilient to damage, even when worn every day.
As tungsten has a very high melting point, it is often used in processes that demand a high heat. Tungsten has been used for heating appliances in electrical furnaces, spacecraft and welding. This material is also said to be used by the military as a substitute for explosives. The density of the material can breach armour just as effectively as standard explosives can.
Some Tungsten Recommendations
U-Boat Classico 45 Tungsteno AS 2 (Movelock) 8071
This watch has a charming and classic colour scheme, making it a timeless addition to any collection. This Italian made watch is made with expert craftsmanship with a clean and elegant style. The crown of this watch is positioned on the left hand side, giving it a unique appearance but making it comfortable for diving. The beige dial is surrounded by a robust and resilient bezel that is made from polished tungsten. Anti-reflective sapphire glass protects the dial and ensures that it can be seen in bright lights. The hands and hour markers are luminescent, meaning that the dial can also be read in the dark. This watch is powered by an automatic movement with a 38 hour power reserve and finished with a brown leather strap.
ORIS Aquis Dat Watt Limited Edition 01 761 7765 4185-SET
This ORIS watch has the distinctive feature of a central moonphase indicator hand. The watch was designed in collaboration with the Common Wadden Sea Secretariat to aid in the conservation of the world’s largest tidal system, the Wadden Sea. The dial is protected by a robust sapphire crystal and framed by a grey tungsten bezel. These characteristics make the watch long lasting and able to withstand strenuous wear. The watch is a limited edition model, with only 2009 pieces available worldwide. A stainless steel case houses the automatic movement that powers the watch. A stainless steel bracelet secures the watch on the wrist. This model is water resistant up to 300 metres.
U-Boat Classico 40 Stratos Alligator Strap 9002
The dark colour scheme of this watch makes it the perfect choice for any occasion. It will pair perfectly with a smart suit or casual outfit. This formidable timepiece exhibits U-Boat‘s patented crown protection. The bezel of this watch is made from tungsten for a resilient and long lasting finish. The automatic movement features 17 jewels and a frequency of 21,600 A/h and provides the watch with a power reserve of up to 42 hours. This movement can be viewed through the exhibition case back. This watch is finished with a classic and elegant black alligator effect leather strap.
What are your thoughts on our guide to answer the question, ‘what is tungsten?’. Would you consider adding a tungsten timepiece to your watch collection? Let us know in the comments below!
