Hand-winding mechanical watch and self-winding automatic watch have one of the most state-of-the-art mechanics. The absence of battery offers an intriguing dynamic to these two categories of watches. Together, they occupy 29% of the total market share of watches. However, the mechanics of these watches and their overall experiences are different.
With your automatic watch, you do not have to bother yourself about setting the time daily. Whenever you are about to step out, you just put it on. Nonetheless, not winding your automatic watch every day does not mean you will not wind it at all. In the case of mechanical watch, the self-winding ritual is one common satisfaction among owners.
You will find in this article the best tips about winding mechanical vs automatic watch. To ensure you have a wholesome understanding of these categories of watches, we will discuss them. Then, you will find ways to wound up watches and choose the right watch winder.
Differences Between Mechanical vs Automatic Watch
Manually Wound Watch
The term mechanical watch is the general category for hand-wound and self-winding watches. However, the term “mechanical watch” is in many contexts used to explain hand-wound or manually-wound watches. This category of watches is self-explanatory.
A spring mechanism powers the manually wound watch. It operates on the power stored in a tightly wound mainspring coil. The gears and wheels in the spring mechanism unwind the system intermittently.
A wheel regulates energy released when unwinding to ensure time accuracy in a manually wound watch. The power released during unwinding is stored in the watch’s escapement. Generally, self-winding watches require less maintenance. The reason is because of its fewer system parts.
Automatic Watch
Self-winding automatic watch are the more popular choices. They have gained the reputation of more ease and better luxury than their hand-wound counterpart. Some believe that automatic mechanical watches do not need winding. That is not true.
In addition to the mechanism in a hand-wound watch, a self-winding watch has a rotor. The rotor is what automates the winding process. When an automatic watch is on the wearer’s wrist, the weighted rotor or oscillator is moved by gravity as they swing their hand.
The hand or wrist movement converts to energy sent to the mainspring. There is a specified power reserve for every automatic watch. Hence, your automatic watch needs winding if its stored power runs out. From that, you will discover that its power runs out when not worn.
How to Wind a Mechanical Watch
Your mechanical watch requires you to wind it daily or at least every other day. Hence, this section discusses how to keep your watch wound. Follow these simple steps to tighten the spring mechanism in your watch by winding.
To begin winding your mechanical watch, remove it from your hand. Place it on a table or hold it face up in your hand. It is much easier to locate and operate the stem of your device this way.
Pull out the watch’s stem gently and wind clockwise. The winding has reached maximum tension when you begin to feel resistance in the clockwise turning. The watch’s size will determine how many turns are required to attain maximum tension.
An average of 20 to 40 turns is often required when you have not yet developed a feel for when there is resistance. The watch will run down quickly if you do not reach the resistance. However, you should not over-wind to avoid breaking or straining the spring mechanism.
With these steps, your device is ready for another 40 to 48 hours. Return the stem to its place with a gentle press. Ensure you do not force the stem back into position. That will enable you to set the time, date, alarm, or time zone.
Ways to Wind an Automatic Mechanical Watch
Winding an automatic mechanical watch is necessary when the wearer is inactive. Like hand-wound watches, automatic watches store energy for about 40 to 48 hours. Hence, we have identified three methods for keeping your handpiece wound.
Wear the Watch
Wearing the watch initiates the movement of a weighty, oscillating rotor. The rotor is attached to gears and wheels, connecting to the mainspring. Therefore, energy is stored in the mainspring for the watch to continue working. You do not need to move your hand vigorously to initiate the rotor’s movement.
Wind it Manually
Your automatic mechanical watch comes with a stem like the manually wound watch. Hence, you can apply the steps indicated for self-winding watches here. After removing it from your wrist, pull out the stem cautiously and wind it clockwise. Stop winding once you feel a resistance, and carefully tuck it back.
Use a Watch Winder
The last method is using a device that wears your watch and keeps it wound when you are not. It mimics the movement of your arm by moving the watch in a circular pattern. Different types of watch winders are available based on size and function.
Hence, confirming with your watch manufacturer the best direction of the winding rotation is vital. Most watches rely on clockwise movement. However, some others work with the anticlockwise or bi-directional motion. This factor is an essential consideration when selecting a watch winder.
Mechanical Vs Automatic Watches: Which One Is Right For You?
Some owners consider winding their wrist pieces daily to be an unnecessary task. Another group of owners regard the winding process as an indispensable interaction with their wristwatch. Hence, the owner’s preference is usually the determining factor when picking a watch.
Depending on your choice, keeping your watch in the best condition is your focus. You should note that a mechanical watch will only work when wound. This knowledge will inform your choice, especially when considering the maintenance.
FAQs about Mechanical vs Automatic Watch
1. Is an Automatic Watch Better Than a Mechanical Watch?
They both have their advantages over each other. For instance, an automatic watch worn regularly does not need winding. However, the rotor system is not as efficient in ensuring time accuracy. The same applies to other features of the watch.
2. What are the Disadvantages of Mechanical Watches?
One of the disadvantages is that it requires consistent maintenance. Wearers need to wind it daily or every other day at the latest. They are also relatively accurate with time display as their quartz counterparts. Also, they are more sensitive to magnetism and shocks.
3. Does an Automatic Watch Need a Battery?
No, an automatic mechanical watch does not need a battery. Its spring mechanism and rotor functions are unaided. The rotor helps these models of wristwatches to stay wound up. That way, its winding is automated by wearing it or using a watch winder.
