How To Wind And Maintain An Automatic Watch

Automatic watches are a marvel of engineering, combining intricate mechanisms with timeless style. These self-winding timepieces offer the convenience of never needing a battery replacement, as they harness the natural motion of your wrist to power themselves. However, to ensure their optimal performance and longevity, it's essential to know how to properly wind and maintain an automatic watch.

In this post, we will cover the process of winding an automatic watch, ensuring that you handle the delicate components with care. We'll also provide valuable tips on maintaining your watch to keep it running accurately for years to come.

Winding an Automatic Watch:

You can shake your watch, but this can be a little bit of a workout so we suggest the following: 

1. Before winding your watch, ensure it is not on your wrist.
2. Locate the winding crown, on the right-hand side of the watch case.
3. If it is not a screw-down crown: With extra care so as not to press the crown in, slowly turn it in the clockwise direction.
4. For screw-down crown: Gently pull the winding crown outwards to the first position. With extra care so as not to press the crown in, slowly turn it in the clockwise direction.
5. Turn the crown clockwise until you feel resistance. Do not force the crown past this point. Please note that some watches will not have this so we suggest rotating up to 60 times but not more than that.
6. In case of a screw-down crown, lock the crown by pushing the crown back inwards.
7. Wind the watch until the second-hand starts moving, indicating that the watch is now running.

Maintaining an Automatic Watch:

1. Wind your watch regularly. If you don't wear your automatic watch daily, wind it manually every few days to keep the movement lubricated, preventing oils from drying out.
2. Keep your watch wound when worn. Automatic watches use the movement of your wrist to keep the mainspring wound; however, they may need the extra boost with a manual wind if you are less active.
3. Avoid magnetism. Keep your watch away from magnets, which can interfere with the movement. If you wear your watch on a flight, please be aware this could magnetize your watch. You can go to your local watch repairer to get this demagnetized.

Other Tips to Maintain Your Watch:

1. Keep your watch clean and dry. Avoid water, moisture, or extreme temperatures.
2. Service your watch regularly. A watchmaker can inspect and maintain the movement, ensuring accuracy.
3. Store your watch properly. Keep the watch encased when not in use. Avoid exposure to sunlight or dust.
4. Always refer to your manual or get in touch with us!