This guide explains the fundamentals of automatic watches, including how they work, how to wind them, and tips for maintaining them. It covers the differences between automatic and hand-winding watches, how to start an automatic watch, and answers common questions about overwinding, stopping, and storage.
Automatic watches are a fascinating blend of engineering and artistry, appealing to both watch enthusiasts and casual wearers alike. This guide will walk you through the essentials of automatic watches, including how they function, how to wind them, and tips for their maintenance.
In the world of watches, there are two primary families: quartz watches and mechanical watches. Quartz watches are powered by batteries, which drive a tiny motor to move the seconds hand forward, resulting in a ticking motion. In contrast, mechanical watches, including automatic ones, rely solely on gears and moving parts without any electronics or batteries. This results in a smoother sweep of the seconds hand, which can tick anywhere from four to eight times per second, or even appear perfectly smooth.
Automatic watches differ from hand-winding watches in that they wind themselves through the natural movement of your wrist. If you have an exhibition case back on your watch, you can identify an automatic watch by the rotor, a large black part that moves with your wrist's motion to wind the watch. The term "self-winding" refers to this mechanism, while brands like Rolex refer to it as "perpetual."
Most automatic watches also feature a hand-winding capability. To start your automatic watch, ensure the crown is pushed all the way in. If your watch has a screw-down crown, like many dive watches, you will need to unscrew it first. Once in the winding position, turn the crown upwards to wind the watch.
Some automatic watches, such as the Seiko SKX line, do not have a hand-winding feature. In such cases, you must shake the watch to get the rotor moving and start the movement.
For modern automatic watches, the answer is no; you cannot overwind them. Manufacturers have designed these watches to decouple the automatic winding system when the mainspring is fully wound. The mainspring is crucial as it stores the power needed to run the watch. However, vintage pieces may have issues with overwinding, so it's essential to do your research if you own one.
No, it is not dangerous to fully wind an automatic watch. Due to your daily movements, the mainspring will eventually wind all the way. If your watch stops, it may simply need to be wound again.
If your automatic watch is running, you do not need to do anything. Just wear it, and the movement of your wrist will keep the mainspring wound. If it stops, you can either shake it (for non-hand-winding models) or turn the crown a few times. Most manufacturers recommend winding it between 10 to 40 turns to ensure it runs for several hours.
If your watch has enough power reserve to last through the night, you won’t need to adjust the time each morning. However, since automatic watches are not as precise as quartz watches, you may need to adjust them if you want to be exact.
If your watch stops overnight, it likely means the mainspring was not wound enough to last through the night. Simply wind it again, and it should be fine. If it stops despite being worn all day, there may be an issue with the movement that requires professional attention.
Letting an automatic watch stop is not inherently bad. Some people prefer to let their watches sit to prevent wear and tear. However, if you want your watch to be ready to wear at any time, consider using a watch winder, which keeps the watch running continuously.
When storing an automatic watch for an extended period, ensure it is kept in a stable environment. Some enthusiasts recommend winding the watch every month to keep the movement lubricated and functioning properly. Ultimately, the best practice depends on personal preference and how often you wear your watch.
Whether an automatic watch is more trouble than a quartz watch depends on your preferences. If you appreciate the mechanical movement and the experience of setting the time and date, an automatic watch may be the perfect choice for you. Many watch enthusiasts find a unique charm in the artistry and craftsmanship of automatic watches, making them a beloved choice in the world of horology.
