How to Wind an Automatic Watch?

Did you know that automatic watches operate using mechanical movement? They are designed to self-wind when worn, thanks to the natural motion of the wrist. However, if an automatic watch is left unworn for an extended period, it may require manual winding to resume operation. Here’s everything you need to know about winding an automatic watch properly.

Easily Winding an Automatic Watch

Winding an automatic watch is a simple process, but it should be performed regularly to maintain accuracy and functionality. There are four ways to wind an automatic watch:

1. Wear the Watch Regularly

The easiest way to keep an automatic watch running is to wear it daily. The rotor inside the movement rotates with each wrist movement, automatically winding the mainspring.

✔ Daily wear maintains the power reserve, ensuring accurate timekeeping.
✔ If the watch stops due to inactivity, simply wearing it and moving naturally will restart the mechanism.
✔ A few minutes of movement can provide up to 48 hours of power reserve before another winding is needed.

2. Use Circular Wrist Motions

If your watch has stopped, you can attempt to restart it by rotating your wrist in a circular motion for a few minutes. This motion can sometimes be enough to activate the rotor and wind the movement.

Afterward, check the hands to ensure the watch is running. If necessary, adjust the time and date by gently pulling out the crown and turning it to the correct setting.

3. Manually Wind the Watch Using the Crown

If wearing the watch or rotating your wrist does not restart it, manual winding may be necessary.

✔ Hold the crown firmly between your fingers.
✔ Turn it clockwise about 30 to 40 times for a full wind.
✔ If you feel resistance, stop turning immediately to avoid damaging the movement.

📌 During winding, if the watch hands move, verify the time and date to ensure accuracy.

4. Use a Watch Winder for Automatic Watches

A watch winder is the ideal solution for keeping an automatic watch powered when not in use. These devices simulate wrist movement, ensuring that the rotor remains active and the mainspring stays wound.

✔ How it works: The watch is placed inside the winder, which rotates in different directions to mimic natural wrist movements.
✔ Customizable settings: Many models allow users to set rotation speed, direction, and intervals for optimal winding.
✔ Best for collectors: If you own multiple automatic watches, a winder prevents power loss and keeps them ready to wear.

📌 To preserve your timepiece, invest in a high-quality watch winder from our Chronos Collection.
Discover our selection here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winding an Automatic Watch

Should You Manually Wind an Automatic Watch?

Automatic watches do not require manual winding under normal conditions. However, if the watch is not worn for 8–10 hours per day, manual winding is recommended to maintain power and accuracy.

Best practice: If you do not wear your watch daily, wind it once a week to keep the movement lubricated and prevent mechanical wear.

How Do You Know If an Automatic Watch Is Fully Wound?

✔ Check the second hand: If the hands move freely when worn or lightly shaken, the watch is likely wound.
✔ Observe the movement: Watches with a transparent case back allow you to see the rotor in action.
✔ Feel for resistance: If you manually wind the crown and feel increasing tension, stop winding—this indicates the mainspring is fully wound.

When Should You Wind an Automatic Watch?

✔ If the watch has stopped running due to inactivity.
✔ If the timekeeping becomes inaccurate, indicating a low power reserve.
✔ If the watch is not worn regularly, wind it once per week to maintain lubrication.

How Does a Watch Winder Work?

A watch winder is an automated device that keeps an automatic watch running by mimicking wrist movements. It slowly rotates the watch, ensuring that the rotor remains active and the mainspring stays wound.

✔ Prevents the watch from stopping when unworn.
✔ Ensures the oils in the movement remain evenly distributed.
✔ Avoids the need for frequent manual winding.

📌 Instead of leaving your watch on a table or in a drawer, store it in a watch winder to keep it in top condition.
Explore our premium watch winders here.

In Summary: Keeping Your Automatic Watch Running Smoothly

Automatic watches are designed to self-wind but require proper care and occasional manual winding. Ensuring regular use, manual winding when needed, and proper storage will extend the lifespan and accuracy of your watch.

✔ Wear your watch regularly to maintain power.
✔ Manually wind it when necessary, using the crown (30–40 turns).
✔ Use a watch winder to prevent the watch from stopping when not in use.
✔ Check for power reserve levels to ensure proper function.

📌 Protect your investment with a premium watch winder from the Chronos Collection.
Discover our selection here.