How Automatic Watches Work – A Comprehensive Guide

Automatic watches also known as self-winding watches or mechanical watches are a type of watch that needs no batteries to run. Instead, these watches are equipped with a movement that stores energy to work the mechanism. A self-winding automatic watch stores energy by the movement of wearer’s wrist and charge the movement.

​Are you looking for how an automatic watch works? We are here to discuss about this matter right now. In this comprehensive guide about an automatic watch, you will learn how it works. So, without vesting another minute let’s start reading this guide.

When was the first automatic watch invented?

​Before knowing how it works let’s take a look at its history. The first automatic watch was invented back in the 1700s by Swiss watchmaker Abraham Louis. In the beginning, it is not much popular among the general public, but in the 1900s these automatic watches become available in a wide variety. Many watchmakers like Rolex, Rado, Seiko, Tissot, Longines, Tudor, Omega, IWC, Audemars Piguet, Breitling, Patek Philippe, etc. are making world-famous automatic timepieces.

How does it work?

​There are several tiny pieces behind an accurate time-telling automatic watch. The main component of an automatic wristwatch is a Rotor. It is a metal disc that rotates inside the watch along with the wearer’s movement. The purpose of this rotation is to provide power to the Main Spring. It is a coiled spring that stores energy. When the Main Spring releases energy, it allows the Balance Wheel to control other tiny gears. The Escapement and Gear Train inside the watch is the components that help to tell the accurate time.

What is the cost of an automatic wristwatch?

It is a hard question to answer. The price of an automatic watch depends on the brand and its build quality. Many luxury watchmakers like Rolex, Rado, Audemars Piguet, etc. are making automatic watches. The cost of an automatic watch from these big brands is around $13000. Yes, you read it correctly. I know it is a huge amount. Don’t worry you have an option of some authentic and best Swiss made replica Rolex watches that are not the same in design but also equipped with authentic self-winding movements.

How to care for an automatic wristwatch?

Automatic watches need more care than ordinary watches. To keep an automatic wristwatch keep running and provide exact time, you will need to care about it. As I said before it powers through the movement of the wearer’s wrist, you will need to keep it on your wrist. If you put off an automatic watch for a long time, it will stop working. Don’t worry, it doesn’t mean that your watch is useless. It will start working as you put it on your wrist or shake it for a couple of minutes.

​Another thing about its care is that these are expensive timepieces that need extra care. You should need to keep it clean and regular service is also mandatory. Never try to open your automatic watch at home, by doing that you can damage it. If you think your watch needs service, always go to an authentic watchmaker who is trained to service automatic watches.

Conclusion

​In conclusion, automatic watches are a symbol of master crafting and engineering, which use natural wrist movement to power them. Whether you are a watch lover or a person who is curious about how things work, we hope you like this guide.

​FAQs

​How long an automatic watch can run if not worn?
It depends on the power reserve source of the watch which varies from a few hours to days. Different brands use different power reserve mechanisms so it’s hard to tell the exact duration.
Are automatic watches considered more accurate than quartz watches?
Not at all, as we discussed before these watches need power from the wearer’s wrist so if you put off these watches for a long it can affect the accuracy of time.
Can you manually wind an automatic watch?
Yes, you always need to wind it manually if you are not wearing it for a long time.
How often do automatic watches need to be serviced?
An authentic automatic watch needs service after 3-5 years, but it is recommended to keep an eye on your watch and service it once a year.