Guide To Automatic Watches
Automatic watches, also known as self-winding watches, are timepieces that are powered by the movement of the wearer's wrist rather than a battery or manual winding. Automatic watches use a rotor, a weighted mechanism that rotates with the movement of the wrist, to wind the watch's mainspring, which powers the movement of the watch.
Here is a guide to automatic watches:
How They Work: Automatic watches work by converting the natural motion of the wrist into mechanical energy that powers the watch. The rotor, a weighted mechanism inside the watch, rotates with the movement of the wrist and winds the mainspring. The mainspring then powers the movement of the watch.
Maintenance: Automatic watches require periodic maintenance to keep them running accurately. It is recommended to have an automatic watch serviced every three to five years. During a service, the watch will be disassembled, cleaned, and lubricated to ensure smooth operation.
Accuracy: Automatic watches are generally accurate, but their accuracy can be affected by factors such as temperature and magnetism. It is recommended to have an automatic watch adjusted by a professional if it is running too fast or too slow.
Power Reserve: Automatic watches have a power reserve, which is the amount of time the watch can run without being worn or wound. The power reserve can vary depending on the watch, but most automatic watches have a power reserve of between 24 and 48 hours.
Winding: If an automatic watch is not worn for a period of time, it will stop running. To restart the watch, it can be manually wound by turning the crown of the watch. This will wind the mainspring and restart the movement of the watch.
Movement Types: There are several types of movements used in automatic watches, including the
- ETA
- Miyota
- Seiko movements.
The type of movement used can affect the accuracy and reliability of the watch.
Overall, automatic watches are a popular choice among watch enthusiasts due to their unique mechanism and classic design. With proper maintenance and care, an automatic watch can last for many years and provide accurate and reliable timekeeping.