The Guide to Winding an Automatic Watch
Watch enthusiasts know it well: an automatic watch is a small mechanical miracle that deserves our full attention. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the art of winding automatic watches.
The essence of the automatic movement
The beating heart of a mechanical watch is based on an ingenious principle. The self-winding movement is activated naturally by the movements of its wearer's wrist. The oscillating weight transforms each movement into energy, thus powering the barrel spring. This winding mechanism allows your timepiece to function without intervention as long as it is worn regularly.
Manual winding: a technical skill to master
Important: Always remove the watch from your wrist before hand winding to avoid lateral tension on the crown.
To manually wind your automatic watch:
- If your watch has a screw-down crown, unscrew it by turning it counterclockwise until you feel it release.
- In position 0 (crown against the case), turn approximately 30 times clockwise
- You will feel a slight resistance when the spring is fully wound - never force beyond this
- If the watch were stopped, these 30 turns would provide approximately 40-50 hours of power reserve
To set the time and date:
- Position 1 (first notch): Set the date by turning clockwise
- Position 2 (second notch): set the time CAUTION: Never set the date between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. to avoid damaging the mechanism
In the BBGear workshop in Toulouse, each automatic watch is assembled with particular attention paid to the fluidity of this winding mechanism.
The art of preservation
To maintain your automatic watch, it's crucial to understand how it works. Daily wrist movement naturally keeps the oscillating weight in motion, but a resting watch can lose its power reserve. An automatic watch winder can be invaluable in keeping your timepiece moving.
The self-winding movement requires regular but measured attention. Excessive daily winding could damage the delicate workings of your precious mechanism.
Daily maintenance
Watchmaking tradition teaches us the importance of regular maintenance. BBGear automatic watches, while built to last, deserve special attention. A qualified watchmaker should periodically examine the winding mechanism, ensure proper mainspring tension, and check the general condition of the mechanical components.
BBGear expertise
Every automatic watch that leaves our hands benefits from a meticulously regulated mechanical movement, a perfectly balanced oscillating weight and an automatic winding mechanism optimized for a long life.
BBGear mechanical watches are distinguished by their reliability and precision, the result of meticulous assembly and rigorous component selection. The generous power reserve of our movements allows for worry-free daily use, while manual winding remains a pleasure for the most passionate watch enthusiasts.
A mechanical heritage
From the first pocket watches to modern chronographs, the evolution of self-winding movements is a testament to watchmaking genius.
Explore our collection of automatic watches and discover the excellence of Toulouse craftsmanship. Each piece embodies our passion for mechanical watchmaking and our commitment to quality.
