How to Wind an Automatic Watch: Step-by-Step
Written By: Vahid Moradi
Automatic watches are a marvel of mechanical design, admired for both their elegance and engineering. Unlike quartz models, they rely on a self-winding mechanism powered by the natural motion of your wrist.1 Yet, if the watch isn’t worn regularly, it may stop, requiring you to wind it manually. Knowing how to wind an automatic watch properly is key to keeping it accurate, protecting the movement, and extending its lifespan. With a few careful steps, you can wind your automatic watch correctly and preserve the precision and beauty it was designed to deliver.
How automatic watches work
An automatic watch contains a rotor, a weighted component that spins as your wrist moves. This motion winds the mainspring, the coiled wire that stores and releases energy to keep the hands moving smoothly. When fully wound, the mainspring powers the watch for 40 to 70 hours, depending on the model.
When considering a manual vs an automatic watch, the distinction lies in how the mainspring receives its energy. Even though the winding mechanism in an automatic is designed for convenience, there are times when manual winding is required. If you set your watch aside for a few days, the power reserve runs down. To start it again, you’ll need to wind your watch by hand so the movement runs accurately and consistently.
Step-by-step guide to winding an automatic watch
Winding your watch isn’t complicated, but precision and care matter. Follow these steps to do it correctly:
Prepare your watch for winding
Always remove the watch from your wrist before winding. Keeping it on your wrist can place uneven pressure on the crown, risking damage to the winding mechanism. Once off, locate and gently unlock the crown to the first position.
Turning the crown clockwise gently
Begin by turning the crown clockwise with smooth, deliberate motions. Automatic watches are engineered to respond best to calm, steady winding rather than forceful twists. You should feel the gears engage as the mainspring gathers energy.
Counting turns and recognizing resistance
Most models require 20–40 turns to become fully wound. There’s no need to count precisely, but pay attention to resistance. Once you feel the crown tightening, the mainspring is at capacity. Avoid pushing past this point—forcing it can damage the winding mechanism.
Securing the crown after winding
After winding, gently push and lock the crown back into position. This prevents dust or moisture from entering the case, preserving the watch’s integrity.
Setting the time if necessary
If your watch has stopped, you’ll also need to adjust the hands. Pull the crown to the next position and rotate to the correct time. Once the setting is complete, press the crown securely to finish.
Tips and safety considerations
A luxury mechanical watch is built to last generations, but only when treated with care. Keep these watch care tips in mind:
Avoid overwinding
An automatic watch features safeguards, but excessive force can still wear out components. Wind only until you sense resistance, then stop.
Proper handling to prevent damage
Always wind slowly and evenly. Jerky motions or applying too much pressure can harm delicate parts of the movement. Hold the watch steady in one hand while winding with the other.
Using a watch winder when not worn
If you rotate between several watches, consider a winder. This device keeps your watch in gentle motion, ensuring the rotor turns and the mainspring stays engaged. It’s an ideal way to maintain accuracy when a watch isn’t regularly worn or if you own multiple types of watch movements.
Keep your automatic watch running smoothly
Learning how to wind automatic watches properly is a fundamental skill for any collector, ensuring both accuracy and protecting the movement. Regular winding not only keeps your timepiece precise but also deepens the satisfaction of wearing a finely tuned instrument. Whether you choose manual winding or a winder for storage, your efforts safeguard both performance and beauty.
If you’re interested in expanding your collection, explore the full range of automatic watch designs available at CJ Charles. From timeless classics to modern innovations, each piece reflects the pinnacle of watchmaking excellence.
Treat your watch with the same precision it was created with, and it will reward you with accuracy, elegance, and a lifetime of wear.
Written By: Vahid Moradi
Vahid Moradi’s lifelong passion, dedication, and commitment for the jewelry industry led him to become the respected owner of CJ Charles Jewelers in 1988. From that moment, Moradi’s single focus in business was to become recognized as the pinnacle of value and world-class quality in the his Community. Over 34 years later, CJ Charles continues to grow and thrive as a successful, family-owned business that consistently provides exceptional service to all their clientele.
Sources:
- Gentleman’s Gazette. Watch Movements Explained: Quartz vs Mechanical vs Automatic. https://www.gentlemansgazette.com/watch-movements-explained/