Is an automatic watch fragile?

So, is an automatic watch fragile ? The answer is nuanced. It certainly requires more care than a quartz watch, but with the right practices, it can be just as durable.

Key points to remember

• Complex construction : Automatic watches have delicate internal movements that require regular maintenance.
• Fragility factors : They are sensitive to shocks, magnetism and humidity.
• Comparison with other watches : Automatic watches differ from quartz and mechanical watches in terms of robustness.

Basic structure

Automatic watches are made up of several essential elements:

• Case : Protects the internal movement.
• Movement : Heart of the watch, often very delicate.
• Balance wheel : Ensures the accuracy of time.
• Automatic winding : Mechanism that allows the watch to be recharged by the movement of the wrist.

Materials used

Commonly used materials for automatic watches are:

• Stainless steel : Highly resistant to corrosion.
• Sapphire Crystal : Extremely durable and scratch resistant.
• Leather : Used for bracelets, adds a touch of elegance.

For more information on materials, visit this watch box materials guide .

Comparison table of materials

Material	Sustainability	Use
Stainless steel	Very high	Case, bracelet
Sapphire glass	Extremely high	Dial
Leather	Average	Bracelet

The elements of fragility of an automatic watch

Internal movement

The internal movements of automatic watches are made up of many moving parts, making them susceptible to shock and vibration. The balance wheel, for example, is a crucial but delicate component. For more information, check out this article on automatic watch balance wheel .

Magnetism

Magnetism can disrupt the internal movement of the watch, affecting its accuracy. Fortunately, it is possible to demagnetize a watch to solve this problem. Here is a complete guide on how to demagnetize a watch .

Water resistance

While many automatic watches are water-resistant, not all are designed to be submerged regularly. Understanding your watch’s water-resistance limits is crucial to avoiding permanent damage. To learn more about watch winding and maintenance, check out this comprehensive guide .

Expert advice

To prolong the life of your automatic watch, it is recommended to store it in a quality watch box and use a watch winder to keep the movement active, especially if you do not wear it daily.

Comparison with other types of watches

Mechanical vs. Automatic Watches

Mechanical and automatic watches share many similarities, including their complex movement and high-precision clockwork. However, automatic watches are distinguished by their ability to automatically recharge themselves through the movements of the wrist, eliminating the need for frequent manual winding.

Points of comparison

• Winding : Mechanical watches require regular manual winding, while automatic watches wind themselves.
• Maintenance : Both types require regular maintenance to ensure accuracy and longevity.
• Accuracy : Automatic watches may be slightly less accurate than mechanical watches due to the added complexity of their self-winding mechanism.

To learn more about the differences between mechanical and automatic watches, check out this in-depth article: Differences Between Mechanical and Automatic Watches .

Quartz watches

Quartz watches, while often considered more robust and accurate, do not have the same mechanical appeal as automatic watches. They use a battery to power the movement, making them less susceptible to shock and magnetism.

Points of comparison

• Accuracy : Quartz watches are generally more accurate than automatic watches.
• Maintenance : Quartz watches require less maintenance and do not need winding.
• Robustness : Less sensitive to shocks and magnetism.

For more information on the different types of watch movements, visit this comprehensive guide: The Different Types of Watch Movements .

Maintenance and protection of automatic watches

Using a winder

A watch winder is an essential tool for automatic watch owners. It keeps the watch moving when it is not being worn, ensuring accurate timekeeping and avoiding complications caused by the movement stopping.

Advantages of a winder

• Maintaining Accuracy : Prevents the watch from stopping and keeps the movement smooth.
• Ease of use : Avoids having to adjust the watch every time you wear it.
• Mechanism Preservation : Reduces wear by ensuring constant movement.

For a complete review on the usefulness and benefits of watch winders, check out this article: Automatic Watch Winder: A Complete Review .

Storage boxes

Choosing a storage box is crucial to protect your automatic watch from the elements and damage. A good storage box provides protection against dust, shock, and moisture.

Features of a good storage box

• Quality materials : Choose durable materials like leather or wood.
• Secure Compartments : Ensure watches do not collide with each other.
• Aesthetics and practicality : Must be both elegant and functional.

For a detailed guide on choosing storage boxes, visit this link: The Complete Guide to Watch Boxes .

Regular cleaning and maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to prolong the life of your automatic watch. This includes cleaning watch cases and bracelets, as well as periodically inspecting the movement.

Care instructions

• Cleaning the case and bracelet : Use a soft cloth and non-abrasive products.
• Periodic servicing : Have your watch serviced by a professional every 3 to 5 years.
• Protection against water and humidity : Check the seals regularly.

For expert advice on caring for your leather watch boxes, check out this article: Cleaning and Caring for Watch Boxes .

Expert advice

To avoid damage from magnetism, keep your automatic watch away from electronic devices and magnets. Use a demagnetizer if necessary to maintain the accuracy of your watch.

Special cases and recommendations

Traveling with an automatic watch

Traveling with an automatic watch requires a few extra precautions to ensure your watch remains in perfect condition. Time zone changes, pressure differences, and the risk of physical damage can affect your watch.

Precautions to take

• Shock Protection : Use a specially designed travel box to protect your watch from shock and vibration.
• Setting Time Zones : Learn how to set your watch correctly to avoid forcing the movement.
• Weather Conditions : Avoid extremely hot or cold environments, as well as prolonged exposure to water.

For additional tips on how to travel with your watches, check out this article: Traveling with Watches: Tips .

Protect against external elements

External elements such as humidity, dust and extreme temperatures can damage an automatic watch, so it is essential to take steps to protect your watch from these factors.

Protective measures

• Humidity : Use dehumidifiers in watch boxes to absorb excess moisture.
• Dust : Store your watch in an airtight container to prevent dust build-up.
• Extreme temperatures : Avoid leaving your watch in places where temperatures fluctuate widely, such as in a car in direct sunlight.

For more tips on protecting your watches, visit this link: Protecting Your Watches .

Automatic watches, while complex and delicate, are not inherently fragile. With the right care and precautions, they can last a lifetime. It is crucial to understand the factors of fragility, compare with other types of watches, and follow best practices for maintenance and protection.

To protect and maintain your automatic watches, discover our range of boxes and winders on Rotation Horlogère. These tools are essential to maintain the precision and beauty of your watches.

• Watch Box Collection
• Selection of winders for automatic watches