The Ultimate Guide to Automatic Watches: Everything You Need to Know in 2024

Are you fascinated by the hypnotic ticking of a mechanical watch? Or perhaps you’re thinking about investing in your first automatic timepiece? Whether you’re a novice or an enthusiast, let’s dive into the captivating world of automatic watches. From their fascinating history to their ingenious mechanisms and current trends, we’ll explore every aspect of these little technological gems that adorn our wrists.

The fascinating history of automatic watches

Revolutionary origins

Did you know that the first automatic wristwatch was invented just over a century ago? It was in 1923 that John Harwood, a visionary British watchmaker, filed a patent for what would revolutionize the watch industry. But it was in 1931 that history really took off, when Rolex patented the central rotor system . This innovation quickly became the standard for automatic watches that we know today. To learn more about the fascinating history of Rolex, discover our article dedicated to this true watchmaking icon .

The evolution of a growing market

Since then, the market for automatic watches has continued to grow. In France, for example, the market share of these mechanical timepieces has increased from 10% in 2010 to around 15% in 2020. This growth is a testament to the growing appeal of these little marvels of engineering. If you’re curious to know the best-selling watches in France , we have a full article on the subject.

How does an automatic watch work?

The beating heart of your wrist

Imagine for a moment: with each movement of your wrist, a small half-moon-shaped weight (the famous rotor) turns inside your watch. This rotation winds the mainspring, thus storing the energy necessary for the watch to function. It's as if your watch were feeding off your movements! To learn more about this fascinating subject, we invite you to read our article on the secrets of automatic watches .

Power reserve: the autonomy of your watch

A typical automatic watch has a power reserve of 38 to 42 hours . This means that if you put it on your nightstand at night, it will continue to run all night and be ready to serve you the next morning. Convenient, right?

If you own several automatic watches and don't wear them daily, a watch winder can be a great investment.

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The advantages of automatic watches

1. Durability : With proper care, an automatic watch can last for several generations.
2. Accuracy : A quality automatic watch displays an accuracy of -4 to +6 seconds per day.
3. No Battery : No more regular battery changes! To learn more about battery-free watches, check out our complete guide to battery-free watches .
4. Sentimental Value : These watches often become treasured family heirlooms.
5. Ecology : Without batteries to change, they are more respectful of the environment.

Choosing your automatic watch: a guide for all budgets

Entry level: the beginning of a passion

For those looking to get into automatic watches without breaking the bank, there are plenty of great options. In France, the average price of an entry-level automatic watch is between 300 and 500 euros . Brands like Seiko, Orient, or Hamilton offer excellent models in this price range. If you're interested in Seiko, be sure to check out our collection of modified Seiko watches , which offers unique designs at affordable prices.

Mid-range: a step towards luxury

If you are willing to invest a little more, the mid-range segment (between 1000 and 5000 euros) offers a wide variety of quality watches. Brands like Oris, Longines or TAG Heuer offer pieces that combine watchmaking tradition and innovation. To help you in your choice, we have prepared a complete guide on choosing the perfect watch .

The high end: watchmaking excellence

For enthusiasts and collectors, the world of high-end and luxury offers exceptional pieces. Luxury automatic watches can exceed 100,000 euros , with some models even reaching several million euros. Brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe or Audemars Piguet are the undisputed references in this segment. If you are curious to know the price of Audemars Piguet watches , we have a detailed article on the subject.

Automatic Watch Trends in 2024

Back to vintage

The “neo-vintage” trend is stronger than ever. Between 2019 and 2022, demand for automatic watches inspired by classic designs increased by 25% . Clean dials, moderately sized cases and aged leather straps are all the rage.

Complexity on the wrist

Lovers of fine watchmaking are not left out. Automatic watches with complications such as the chronograph or perpetual calendar have seen their popularity increase by 15% over the last 5 years . These small mechanical masterpieces fascinate with their ingenuity and craftsmanship. If you want to know more about watch complications, our article on the tourbillon in luxury watches will surely interest you.

The comparative table of trends 2024

Tendency	Features	Examples of brands
Neo-vintage	Clean dials, cases < 40mm	Longines, Tudor
Sporty-chic	Versatility, steel bracelet	Rolex, Omega
High complication	Chronograph, perpetual calendar	Patek Philippe, A. Lange & Söhne
Ecological	Recycled materials, sustainable production	Oris, Panerai

Maintaining your automatic watch

Taking care of your automatic watch is essential to ensure its longevity and accuracy. Here are some simple tips:

1. Have your watch serviced every 3 to 5 years by a qualified watchmaker.
2. Avoid strong magnetic fields that can affect the movement. If your watch is magnetized, learn how to demagnetize a watch .
3. If you don't wear your watch regularly, use an automatic watch winder to keep it running. Discover the benefits of an automatic watch winder .
4. Gently clean your watch with a soft cloth to remove dust and sweat. For Rolex owners, we have a specific guide on how to wash your Rolex .

To store and protect your precious watches, consider investing in a quality watch box .

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Automatic watches are much more than just time-measuring instruments. They are the result of centuries-old know-how, combining tradition and innovation. Whether you are a novice or an experienced collector, there is an automatic watch that will seduce you and perhaps even become your constant companion. So, are you ready to dive into this watchmaking passion?

FAQ: Your questions about automatic watches

Q1: What are the environmental benefits of automatic watches over quartz watches? A: Automatic watches do not use batteries, which reduces electronic waste. In addition, their durability allows them to be preserved and passed down for generations, thus limiting consumption. To learn more about ethics in the watch industry, check out our article on the ethics of luxury watches and their impact .

Q2: How to choose an automatic watch according to your budget? A: First define your budget. For less than €500, opt for brands like Seiko or Orient. Between €500 and €2000, explore brands like Oris or Longines. Beyond that, the world of luxury opens up to you with Rolex, Omega or Patek Philippe. For more details, read our complete guide on choosing a watch .

Q3: What are the best automatic watch brands to get started in watchmaking? A: For beginners, we recommend Seiko, Hamilton, Tissot or Orient. These brands offer excellent value for money and allow you to explore different styles and complications. Discover our selection of the best watch brands for men .

Q4: What are the most popular automatic watch models for 2024? A: Although trends change, some models remain very popular like the Rolex Submariner, the Omega Speedmaster, or for a more affordable budget, the Seiko Presage or the Hamilton Khaki Field. For an affordable alternative to the big brands, take a look at our Seiko Submariner collection .

Q5: Is an automatic watch a good investment? A: Some automatic watches, especially from prestigious brands, can indeed increase in value over time. However, it is better to buy a watch primarily for the pleasure it gives you rather than as a pure investment. To learn more about investing in luxury watches, check out our article on how to tell if your watch is increasing in value .

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