Should You Wind an Automatic Watch?

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of automatic watches, where elegance meets precision mechanics to create timeless masterpieces.

Key points :

• Automatic watches are wound using the movement of the wrist .
• They may require manual winding after periods of inactivity.
• The power reserve varies depending on models and brands.
• Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and precision of the watch.

Discover our selection of winders for automatic watches .

Understanding Automatic Watches

Automatic watches represent a pillar of watchmaking , combining tradition and innovation. Unlike quartz watches, they work without a battery, thanks to a complex mechanism that winds with the natural movement of the wrist.

• Operation: A rotor, moving with the movement of the wrist, activates the winding mechanism.
• Power reserve: Most automatic watches have a power reserve ranging from 38 to 48 hours, with some even reaching up to 10 days.

Watch Model	Power Reserve (hours)	Notable Features
Rolex Submariner	48	Waterproof up to 300m, iconic design
Omega Seamaster	60	Magnetic resistance, maritime heritage
Patek Philippe Nautilus	45	Elegant design, high-end finishes
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak	40	“Tapisserie” dial, unique octagonal case
TAG Heuer Carrera	80	Precise chronograph, auto racing history

Expert Tip: For automatic watch enthusiasts, wearing your watch regularly is the best way to keep the mechanism moving and avoid manual winding. However, if you own multiple watches, consider using a watch winder to keep unworn ones moving.

Automatic Winding Explained

The heart of an automatic watch lies in its ability to self-fill , a feature that fascinates and attracts watch enthusiasts. The automatic winding system is both a technical feat and a tribute to human ingenuity.

• Mechanism: The rotor, when rotating, transmits the energy necessary to wind the barrel spring.
• Efficiency: This process ensures that the watch stays running as long as it is worn regularly.

Automatic winding is a perfect example of how mechanical technology can be seamlessly integrated into everyday life , providing both convenience and watchmaking excellence. The proper functioning and accuracy of a watch depends on its regular and sufficient winding, so it is essential to ensure that it is always wound correctly .

Dive into our collection of automatic watch winders .

Situations Requiring Manual Winding

Although automatic watches are designed to wind with the movement of the wrist, certain situations require manual winding to ensure optimal operation.

Extended Periods of Inactivity

If an automatic watch is left unworn beyond its power reserve capacity, it will stop. To restart it, manual winding is necessary. This is particularly true for collectors who own several watches that they alternate regularly.

Watches with Additional Complications

Automatic watches with complications, such as perpetual calendars or moon phases, may require manual winding to adjust these functions after a period of inactivity, ensuring the accuracy of these complex features.

Advantages of Occasional Manual Winding

Manually winding an automatic watch, even when worn regularly, has several advantages.

Maintaining the Power Reserve

Manual winding can help keep the watch at full power reserve capacity, particularly useful for lightly worn watches or those with a large power reserve that might not be fully recharged by the natural movement of the wrist alone.

Component Wear Prevention

Although it may seem counterintuitive, occasional manual winding can actually help prevent premature wear of the automatic winding mechanism, by reducing reliance on a single type of movement for spring tension.

How to Properly Wind an Automatic Watch

Winding an automatic watch is a simple process, but one that requires special attention to avoid damaging the mechanism.

1. Grasp the Crown: Hold the watch firmly in one hand and use the other to gently grasp the crown between your fingers.
2. Unscrew the Crown (if necessary): If your watch has a screw-down crown, first unscrew it counterclockwise until it comes free.
3. Turn the Crown: Turn the crown clockwise to wind the spring. You should feel a slight resistance; it's normal.
4. Stop at Resistance: Do not force the crown once you feel significant resistance, which indicates that the spring is fully wound.
5. Screw in the Crown (if necessary): If your watch has a screw-down crown, be sure to screw it back in carefully to ensure water resistance.

Expert Tip: For watches worn daily, manually winding your watch once a month can help keep the winding mechanism in good condition and ensure optimal performance.

Maintenance and Precautions

Regular maintenance is essential to preserve the longevity and precision of an automatic watch. Professional service every 4-5 years is recommended for complete cleaning, lubrication and adjustment. Between these services, take care to protect your watch from shock, excessive exposure to water and magnetic fields.

What is your experience with winding your automatic watch? Do you have any particular tips or preferences?

Frequently asked Questions

Is it necessary to wind my automatic watch every day?

No, if you wear your watch daily and are fairly active, the movement of your wrist should be enough to keep it wound. However, if the watch is left stationary for longer than its power reserve, manual winding will be necessary to restart it.

Can I damage my watch by winding it too much?

Yes, it is possible to damage the winding mechanism if you force the crown after reaching the maximum resistance point. It is important to wind the watch carefully and stop as soon as you feel significant resistance.

How do I know if my automatic watch needs service?

Signs that an automatic watch may need service include a loss of accuracy (it advances or lags significantly), difficulty winding the watch, or if the watch stops frequently despite regular wear. In these cases, it is advisable to consult a professional watchmaker.

Does manual winding affect the accuracy of my automatic watch?

Manual winding itself should not affect the accuracy of your watch. However, improper handling during reassembly can cause internal damage which in turn can affect accuracy. Always follow the winding instructions specific to your watch.

Can you use a winder for an automatic watch and is it recommended?

Yes, a watch winder can be used to keep an automatic watch wound when not being worn, particularly useful for watches with a large power reserve or complications that require careful adjustment. Using a watch winder is recommended for those who alternate between multiple watches, ensuring that each watch is ready to wear at all times.

Explore our range of automatic watch winders .