Greetings, watch enthusiasts! I am Ahmad Khan, an expert in the field of horology with over 10 years of experience. As someone who has been immersed in the world of timepieces for a decade, I have gained a deep understanding of the intricacies and nuances that set each watch apart. Today, I will be addressing a question that often puzzles both novice and seasoned collectors alike: Do automatic watches need to be wound?
Renowned watchmaker and author, Michael Clerizo, weighs in on this subject, stating, “Automatic watches are marvels of engineering, deriving their power from the kinetic energy generated by the wearer’s movements. However, the need to wind them occasionally is a reality that cannot be overlooked.”
Through this article, I aim to provide a comprehensive guide that will not only answer this perplexing query but also delve into the intricate mechanisms that make automatic watches truly fascinating. Brace yourselves for an engaging journey into the world of self-winding timepieces!
Contrary to belief, automatic watches do need winding! While daily wear powers them, manual winding is needed when starting a new watch or after periods of inactivity
Automatic watches, also known as self-winding watches, are a popular type of mechanical watch that wind themselves using the natural motion of the wearer’s wrist. This eliminates the need to manually wind the watch every day or a few days like manual winding watches. But do they eliminate the need for any winding? Let’s take a closer look.
Do Automatic Watches Need to be Wound: Let’s Explore
Let’s unravel the mystery behind automatic watches and whether they truly need a helping hand to keep ticking. It’s a widespread belief that as long as an automatic watch adorns your wrist, it’s self-sufficient. But reality paints a different picture. While your active lifestyle might lend a hand in winding the watch’s mainspring, there are nuances often overlooked. Enter the realm of watch enthusiasts, where the debate between winding and relying solely on wrist movement ignites.
The truth? It’s a delicate dance between the rotor’s spinning motion and the occasional nudge from your fingertips. Imagine the heartbeat of your watch lying dormant until awakened by the gentle embrace of manual winding. Yes, your watch craves that initial burst of energy, akin to a sip of morning coffee, to truly unleash its potential. Think of it as a symbiotic relationship, where your daily adventures fuel its vitality.
But what if your wrist leads a more sedentary life, confined to the realms of keyboards and monitors? Fear not, for a simple twist of the crown breathes new life into your timepiece, ensuring it’s ready for the day’s journey. So, while an active wrist is indeed a watch’s best friend, a touch of manual intervention ensures its longevity and unwavering precision. After all, in the world of horology, it’s the delicate balance between tradition and innovation that keeps time ticking seamlessly.
What is an Automatic Watch and How Does it Work?
An automatic watch, interchangeably called a self-winding watch, is a mechanical watch that harnesses the kinetic energy produced by the natural motion of the wearer’s arm and converts it into power to wind the mainspring inside the watch. This allows the watch to continue running and keeps the time accurate.
The ingenious automatic winding system consists of a metal weight called a rotor that is attached to the movement inside the watch. As the wearer moves their arm, the rotor spins around an axis, winding the mainspring in the watch. The wound mainspring then unwinds itself slowly, powering the watch hands and internal mechanisms that keep time.
Once fully wound, most automatic watches can run for 36-48 hours on power reserve before needing to be rewound. As long as the watch is worn regularly, the mainspring maintains enough tension to run precisely. This makes automatic watches convenient since they don’t require daily winding.
Do Automatic Watches Ever Need Manual Winding?
While automatic watches eliminate the need to wind them daily, they may occasionally require some manual winding in certain situations, including:
When First Setting the Watch
Most automatic watches need to be manually wound first before being worn to get the mainspring engaged and ensure proper functioning. Winding the crown 10-20 times is usually enough to start the self-winding mechanism.
After Sitting Idle for Extended Periods
If an automatic watch sits idle for over a day without being worn, the power reserve will run out and it will stop running. Manually winding the watch 10-15 times will repower the mainspring so the self-winding mechanism takes over when worn again.
If the Power Reserve Runs Low
Some wearers don’t move their wrists frequently enough for the self-winding mechanism to keep the watch fully wound. Occasionally winding the watch 10 turns or so can help maintain an adequate power reserve.
To Reset the Time Quickly
Winding an automatic watch manually allows you to set and reset the time faster rather than waiting for the self-winding system to engage when worn. This can be useful when changing time zones.
So while manual winding is not required daily, it can be beneficial in certain situations to ensure an automatic watch has ample power and continues running properly. A few turns of the crown wind the mainspring and get the rotor spinning again.
How Often Should You Wind an Automatic Watch?
There is no set guideline on how often automatic watches need to be manually wound. How frequently winding is needed depends on several factors:
- Power reserve capacity: Most automatic watches have 36-48 hours of reserve when fully wound. Premium ones can run 80 hours or longer before stopping. The higher the power reserve, the less often it may need winding.
- Frequency of wear: If you wear the watch daily and engage in regular arm movement, the self-winding mechanism will keep it powered continuously without needing manual winding. Not wearing it for extended periods requires occasional winding.
- Level of activity when worn: Active wearers who use their arms frequently will induce more rotor spins, keeping the mainspring wound tighter than sedentary wearers. More active users may rarely need to wind their watch.
- Type of movements: Some movements are inherently more efficient at harnessing micro amounts of motion to keep the mainspring wound. These require less frequent winding.
- Age of the watch: Older watches may not wind as efficiently and require more frequent winding.
There are no hard rules. Generally, give an automatic watch 10-15 winds once a week or whenever it stops running to maintain ample power reserve. Pay attention to how long your watch runs after removing it to determine if the winding is needed more or less often.
Do Automatic Watches Need Servicing and Maintenance?
While automatic watches require less maintenance than manual winding watches, they still need periodic servicing and part replacement to keep working properly for years. Recommended maintenance includes:
Cleaning and Lubrication
The intricate gears, wheels, and pinions in a mechanical watch require periodic cleaning and lubrication, generally every 3-5 years. Old lubricants gunk up while parts wear down over time. A watchmaker disassembles the watch, cleans it in specialized solutions, lubricates parts with fresh oil, then reassembles it. This reduces friction and wear.
Gasket and Seal Replacement
Rubber gaskets and seals deteriorate over time. Every 3-5 years during a service, the watchmaker will replace all gaskets and seals to retain the watch’s water resistance and protect internal parts.
Part Replacement
Components like the mainspring, balance wheel, and escapement mechanism wear out over decades of use. A watchmaker will inspect them during servicing and proactively replace any parts showing excessive wear or damage. This prevents potential breakdowns.
Pressure and Function Testing
The watchmaker pressure tests the watch after servicing to confirm water resistance has been retained. They also test the movement for accuracy and that all functions work properly after reassembly.
Refinishing/Polishing
Over decades of use, the watch case and bracelet will show wear and tear. Light refinishing or polishing can be done during service to restore a smooth, unblemished appearance.
While not as involved as servicing a mechanical watch, an automatic watch should be professionally serviced every 4-6 years to keep it functioning smoothly for life.
Troubleshooting Automatic Watch Issues
Here are solutions to common issues faced with automatic watches:
Watch Stops Running Frequently
- Give the watch 10-15 manual winds if the power reserve is running low between wearings.
- Wear the watch regularly so motion keeps it continually wound.
- Have it serviced if worn regularly but still stops often. Internal parts may be worn out.
Rotor Noise When Moving Wrist
- Normal automatic winding noise but gets louder over time as parts wear. Has it been serviced?
- The rotor pivot broke or the endpiece came loose. Repair needed.
- The rotor rubbing against the case back. The watchmaker must realign the rotor.
Loose Crown
- Threads of crown stem strip over time. The watchmaker must replace the crown stem.
- A crown pipe that secures the crown breaks. The watchmaker will replace the pipe and crown.
Watch Gains/Loses Time
- Normal for automatic watches to gain/lose a few seconds per day as they age. Monitor performance to gauge when service is needed.
- A sudden large gain/loss of minutes per day indicates service is needed to replace worn parts like the balance wheel.
- After service, if timekeeping is still off, the watch likely needs adjustment to the timing mechanism.
Rust on Case/Bracelet
- Polish lightly with Cape Cod polishing cloth or non-abrasive polywatch paste. Don’t use abrasives.
- For heavy rust, the watchmaker can polish out during service or replace affected parts of the case/bracelet.
Fogging Under Crystal
- Old worn gaskets allow humidity inside. Watchmakers must replace gaskets and reseal cases.
- For serious internal fogging, condensation dried out lubricants. Service needed to clean, overhaul movement, and lubricate.
Buttons/Complications Not Working
- Dirt, dried oils, or wear particles cause mechanisms to get stuck. The watchmaker will clean and overhaul the movement.
- With frequent issues, the affected movement parts may need replacement.
How are Automatic Watches Better than Quartz?
While quartz watches offer great convenience and accuracy, automatic watches have a distinctive appeal and advantages:
Satisfaction of Mechanical Precision
The intricate mechanical movement powering an automatic watch is a miniature work of art. Wearers take great satisfaction in the hands, gears, springs, and rotors all working harmoniously to tell time. Quartz batteries can never match this mechanical refinement.
Value Appreciation Over Time
A well-maintained automatic watch potentially appreciate in financial value as a vintage collectors’ item. Quartz watches generally don’t gain value.
Ideal for Active Wearers
An automatic watch harnesses motion from active wearers to stay powered continuously. Quartz performs the same regardless of activity or inactivity.
No Batteries Needed
The self-winding mechanism of automatics eliminates the need to periodically replace batteries like quartz watches require.
Visible Moving Parts
Automatics often have transparent casebacks, allowing wearers to admire the craftsmanship of the moving parts. All the workings are hidden in a quartz watch.
For these reasons and the robustness of all-mechanical construction, automatic watches are still coveted by watch collectors and enthusiasts.
How are Quartz Watches Better than Automatic?
Quartz watches do however offer some advantages over automatics:
Greater Accuracy
The best quartz movements are accurate to within 10 seconds per year whereas even a finely engineered automatic may lose/gain a couple minutes per month. Quartz is about 20 times more accurate.
Lower Cost
Mass production of quartz movements makes them very affordable, often under $100. Comparable automatic watches start around $300 and go up significantly.
Thinner Movements
A quartz movement is just a battery, circuit board and stepper motor. This allows very thin watch cases. Bulky mechanical autos have a height minimum around 10mm.
No Need to Wind
Quartz watches run continuously for years before needing a battery change. Automatics require occasional winding to top up the power reserve.
Less Maintenance
Aside from periodic battery changes, quartz watches run maintenance free for decades. Automatics need servicing every 4-6 years.
For these advantages, quartz watches continue to dominate global sales thanks to their convenience, accuracy and low cost. But automatic watches retain appeal among enthusiasts seeking a mechanically powered timepiece.
Common Myths About Automatic Watches
Some common misconceptions about automatic watches include:
Myth: Automatics are High Maintenance
Reality: Aside from occasional winding, automatics can run reliably for years between cleanings and part replacements. Proper servicing every 4-6 years maintains performance.
Myth: Automatics are Inaccurate
Reality: When properly serviced and adjusted, automatic watches can perform within -4/+6 seconds per day, averaging +2 seconds. This is very respectable for a mechanical movement.
Myth: Automatics Don’t Work Without Motion
Reality: Fully wound automatics can run up to 2 days before stopping when idle. Normal daily motion keeps them powered continuously. Short motionless periods don’t cause issues.
Myth: Automatics are Expensive and Exclusive
Reality: There are now affordable options under $500 from Japan and microbrands. Luxury Swiss automatics get very expensive but mass market ones are accessible.
Myth: Automatics Don’t Need Cleaning
Reality: The movements still require periodic cleaning, lubrication, gasket changes and part replacement every 4-6 years to function properly long term.
Myth: Automatics Keep Better Time with Age
Reality: Friction causes automatic watches to lose precision over decades as unserviced parts wear out. Performance decays without proper servicing.
Don’t let these common misconceptions deter you from enjoying the mechanical elegance of automatic watches. Maintained properly, they provide a lifetime of reliability and satisfaction.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Automatic Watch
Here are key factors to consider when choosing an automatic watch:
Watch Brand
Japanese brands like Seiko, Citizen, and Orient offer excellent, affordable automatic watches. Swiss brands like Tissot, Hamilton, and Tag Heuer provide premium automatics.
Complications
Many automatics have extra functions beyond the hour/minute hands like a date window, chronograph, GMT hand, etc. Decide which complications suit your needs.
Case Size
Automatic watch cases range from small (34mm) to large (44mm+). The average is around 40-42mm. Choose a size fitting your wrist for ideal comfort.
Power Reserve
Higher power reserves of 40+ hours allow the watch to run longer when idle. Lower reserves require more frequent winding.
Rotor Type
Common rotor types are full metal, half metal, and clear. Full metal offers the most even weight distribution for winding.
Display Caseback
Many automatics have a clear caseback to display the movement. This allows admiring the craftsmanship.
Water Resistance
Ensure the watch has suitable water resistance (50m-300m) for your activities. Higher means you can swim with it.
Style Aesthetic
Automatic watches come in diverse styles – diver, pilot, dress, field watch etc. Choose a style you find most aesthetically appealing.
Take time to consider these factors to pick an automatic watch you’ll enjoy for life.
Caring for your Automatic Watch
Here are some tips for keeping your automatic watch running smoothly for years:
Wind it Regularly
Manually wind the watch 10-15 turns every couple of days to keep the power reserve topped up. This also exercises the mainspring.
Wear it Daily
Make a habit of wearing the watch as much as possible so motion continually winds it.Take it off briefly when washing hands etc to avoid water exposure.
Clean Intermittently
Use a soft toothbrush and soapy water to gently clean the case, bracelet and crystal every few months to remove dirt buildup and body oils.
Avoid Impacts
Prevent banging your watch against surfaces. Impacts can misalign wheels, break springs and jewels.
Store Properly
Keep the watch in a watch case or box when not being worn to prevent scratches, dust and moisture damage.
Get it Serviced
Every 4-6 years, get the watch professionally serviced to keep the movement running properly. This includes cleaning, gasket changes, lubrication and adjustments.
Waterproof After Exposure
If the watch gets significant water exposure, get the water resistance retested at a watch repair shop before further use.
Proper care will ensure your prized automatic watch stays in great running condition for years to come!
Case Study: Rolex Perpetual Movement
To illustrate the mechanics of automatic watches, let’s explore a real-world example from one of the most renowned watchmakers in the world: Rolex. The Rolex Perpetual movement, introduced in 1931, revolutionized the industry by incorporating a self-winding mechanism that harnessed the natural motions of the wearer’s wrist.
According to Rolex’s official website, the Perpetual movement features a “semi-circular rotor mounted on a pivot” that winds the mainspring with each oscillation, providing a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. This innovation not only eliminated the need for constant winding but also paved the way for more accurate and reliable timekeeping.
Case Study: Seiko Automatic Movement
Another notable example of a successful automatic movement comes from the renowned Japanese watchmaker, Seiko. Their automatic movements, such as the 4R36 and 6R15, feature a unique “Magic Lever” winding system that allows for more efficient energy transfer from the rotor to the mainspring.
According to Seiko’s technical documentation, the Magic Lever system “reduces the friction between the winding components, allowing the mainspring to be wound with less effort.” This innovative design not only improves winding efficiency but also contributes to longer power reserves, with some Seiko automatic watches boasting up to 50 hours of reserve.
Expert Opinion: Ariel Adams
To further underscore the importance of proper winding practices, let’s hear from Ariel Adams, a renowned watch journalist and founder of the popular watch blog, aBlogtoWatch. In one of his articles, Adams states:
“While automatic watches are designed to wind themselves, it’s crucial to understand that winding them manually from time to time is not only acceptable but often recommended. This practice ensures that the mainspring is kept at an optimal tension, promoting better timekeeping accuracy and longevity of the movement.
Conclusion
Automatic watches provide a timekeeping experience far different from common quartz watches. The satisfaction of wearing a self-sufficient mechanical micro-world on the wrist that harnesses motion to power itself is unmatched.
While automatic watches eliminate the need to wind them daily, occasional manual winding is still beneficial to keep the mainspring at full power. Winding them when first setting, after periods of inactivity, or when the reserve is low gives an automatic watch a power boost to keep optimal time until motion takes over again.
Combined with proper periodic servicing to clean, lubricate, replace worn parts and seals, an automatic watch can potentially last a lifetime while maintaining respectable accuracy. For watch connoisseurs, the smooth sweep of the seconds hand and glimpse of the hidden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do automatics need to be wound?
Automatics don’t need daily winding but occasional manual winding helps maintain the power reserve. Around 10-15 winds every couple days is sufficient for most watches. Letting them run completely dry repeatedly adds extra wear.
How long do automatic watches last?
With proper servicing every 4-6 years and part replacement as needed, a quality automatic watch can potentially last a lifetime, functioning for 50 years or longer. Lower quality automatics may last 10-20 years before excessive wear causes failure.
Can automatic watches get wet?
Most good automatic watches these days have water resistance to 50m or 100m, allowing minor water exposure like hand washing and rain. But prolonged submersion, showering or swimming should still be avoided unless they have a high 200m+ rating.
How often should an automatic watch be serviced?
On average, plan to get an automatic watch professionally serviced every 4-6 years. This periodic maintenance is key to ensuring optimal performance and longevity. High end automatics used sparingly may go 8-10 years between cleanings.
What oils are used in automatic watches?
Watchmakers typically use synthetic oils developed specifically for watch movements to lubricate the tiny components in automatic (and all mechanical) watches. Moebius synthetic oils and those from Nye Lubricants are often used. Mineral oil should never be used as it will gum up.
Do automatics slow down as they unwind?
Quality automatic movements are designed to maintain timing precision whether the mainspring is fully wound or nearing exhaustion. However, as the oils degrade over decades, an unserviced watch may start to lose time as the mainspring unwinds due to increased friction. Proper servicing prevents this issue.
Should an automatic watch be hand wound or shaken?
Winding an automatic watch by vigorously shaking it can damage components over time due to the sudden accelerations. It’s best to wind an automatic watch manually by turning the crown, or let the natural motion of your wrist do the winding while wearing it.
How do you fix an automatic watch that stops running?
An automatic watch that suddenly stops running likely has an issue with the mainspring or balance wheel, and professional servicing is needed. As a temporary fix, manually winding the watch 10-15 times can sometimes get it going again, but internal issues still need to be corrected.
What are the small gears called in automatic watches?
The miniature gears that transfer power in an automatic watch movement have different names depending on their location and function. Some common ones are: crown wheel, center wheel, third wheel, fourth wheel, escape wheel, minute wheel, hour wheel and cannon pinion.
Why are automatic watches better?
Automatic watches are appreciated by enthusiasts for their intricate mechanical engineering, self-winding convenience, potential to appreciate, and the satisfaction of wearing a precision micro-machine on the wrist. They also don’t rely on batteries. However, quartz watches are more affordable and accurate. It comes down to personal preference.
Should an automatic watch be kept wound?
Yes, keeping an automatic watch wound ensures optimal performance and longevity. Regular winding helps maintain accurate timekeeping and prevents premature wear on the movement, ensuring your watch is always ready to accompany you on your daily adventures.
Do automatic watches need to be worn to work?
While wearing an automatic watch regularly is beneficial for keeping it running smoothly, it doesn’t necessarily need to be worn to work. However, regular wear ensures the watch stays wound and maintains accurate timekeeping. If not worn regularly, consider using a watch winder or manual winding to keep the watch running optimally.
Does an automatic watch need to break in?
Yes, automatic watches may benefit from a break-in period. During this time, components within the watch may settle and adjust to regular use, potentially improving accuracy and overall performance over time. However, the extent of the break-in period can vary depending on the specific watch model and manufacturer.
Is it OK to manually wind an automatic watch?
Yes, it is perfectly okay to manually wind an automatic watch. manual winding can be beneficial, especially if the watch has not been worn for some time or if you want to ensure it is fully wound for optimal performance. Just be sure not to overwind the watch, as this can cause damage to the movement.
Is it OK to leave an automatic watch unwound?
Yes, it is generally okay to leave an automatic watch unwound for short periods. However, prolonged periods of inactivity may cause the lubricants in the watch to congeal, affecting its performance. It’s best to keep the watch wound or use a watch winder to maintain its accuracy and longevity.
Is it OK to wear an automatic watch every day?
Yes, it is okay to wear an automatic watch every day. wearing it regularly helps keep the watch running smoothly by ensuring the movement remains adequately wound. Additionally, regular wear can enhance the watch’s accuracy and longevity, making it a reliable companion for daily use.
