Does the Royal navy HS standard (H.S.1, H.S.3, etc.) refer to just the watches designated function (e.g. Boxed chronometer, Deck watch, etc.) or is there also a "quality" component in the system. In other words did H.S. 1's perform better or keep more accurate time than H.S. 2's and H.S.3's?

The information I have regarding Royal Hydrographic Service codes is from Wesolowski's CONSICE GUIDE TO Military TIMEPIECES. The markings guide includes only basic information for most timepieces. HS1 indicates a chronometer with detent escapement. HS2 = a chronometer adjusted for isochronism and five positions. HS3 = a deck watch adjusted for isochronims in a minimum of two positions.

Best regards,
Greg

Additional to Greg's post my source - "Beobachtungsuhren, Deck Watches und Chronometres de bord", by Norbert Eder, edited 1987 by Georg Callwey, Munic - says on page 56:

accuracy standards for:

H.S. 1 deviation better than 0,5 sec per 24 hours
H.S. 2 deviation more than 0,5 sec per 24 hours
H.S. 3 deviation 1 to 3 sec per 24 hours
H.S. 4 deviation more than 5 sec per 24 hours

Hope this helps!

Regards
Gerd

Great help.

Thanks all,

Maston