AUTOMATIC WATCHES

When you receive a new automatic watch, it may take some time to start keeping accurate time, especially if it’s running too fast, too slow, or has stopped. Don’t worry, this is completely normal, and it’s an important part of owning an automatic watch. Unlike battery-powered quartz watches, automatic watches require some effort and time to reach their optimal performance. Here’s a simple guide to help you take care of your new automatic watch and get it running smoothly.

Getting Your Automatic Watch to Run Properly

Automatic watches rely on a mechanism powered by hand movement, which means they need to be wound to start keeping accurate time. If the watch has been sitting unused for a while or is a brand-new purchase, it’s essential to wind the mainspring completely. There are two main ways to do this: 

  • Using a watch winder or, 
  • Wearing the watch for some time.

To get started, you can also manually wind the watch by turning the crown clockwise about 40 to 50 times.

Similar to how a new car engine needs to be broken in to receive optimum performance, a new automatic watch (or one that has been left unworn for a while) also goes through a “break-in period.” This period usually lasts around a month. During this time, the internal gears of the watch are adjusted, and the oil inside is distributed to ensure smooth operation. To help speed up this process, make sure you either wear the watch regularly or use a watch winder to keep it ticking.

Regulating Your Watch

If you notice that your watch is still running a little off after you’ve allowed time for it to break in, there are a few simple steps you can take to regulate its timekeeping. Try placing the watch in one of the following positions at night:

  1. If your watch is running slow: Lay it flat with the dial facing up.
  2. If your watch is running fast: Lay the watch vertically with the crown facing down.
  3. If your watch is running too fast: Lay the watch vertically with the crown facing up.

This positioning helps the watch gears adjust overnight and can often improve timekeeping accuracy.

Dealing with Sticking Mainsprings

If your watch continues to run fast or slow by a significant amount, the problem could be related to the mainspring being stuck on one of the screws inside the watch. If this happens, here’s a simple trick to free up the mainspring:

  1. Place the watch on your palm with the crystal (glass face) facing down.
  2. Gently slap the back of the watch in your palm.

This motion can help dislodge the mainspring and get the watch back on track. After doing this, the watch should begin to keep time properly.

Power Reserve and Winding Your Watch

To maintain a full power reserve, your watch needs to be worn for at least 8 hours a day. If you haven’t worn the watch for a couple of days, you will need to wind it again. Simply turn the crown clockwise about 30 to 40 times to restart the watch.

When to Seek Help

If you’ve followed these steps and your watch still isn’t keeping good time, it might need a professional touch. Taking your watch to a nearby watch shop for a regulation or a mainspring adjustment can often solve the problem. A small fee may apply, but it can help get your watch back to perfect working order.

Servicing Your Automatic Watch

Like any mechanical device, an automatic watch requires periodic servicing to maintain its accuracy. However, please note that our warranty does not cover routine servicing for automatic watches. 

By following these simple tips and understanding the care your automatic watch requires, you can ensure it stays accurate and runs smoothly. Taking the time to properly care for your timepiece will help you enjoy it for many years.