Winding a watch may seem difficult, but in reality it is a simple and quick operation. Normally these models wind themselves thanks to the movements, but in some cases, the watch may require manual winding.
Winding an automatic watch manually
Step 1: Remove the watch
First of all, you must remove the watch from your wrist before winding it. This avoids exerting too much force on the stem and the crown, which could damage the mechanism.
Step 2: Find and unlock the crown
- Crown Position : Make sure the crown (the part on the side that sets the time) is in the "locked" position, meaning it is fully pushed in.
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Unlocking: If your watch has a screw-down crown, be sure to unscrew it first until it comes free
Step 3: Reassembly
- Turn the crown: Hold the watch with one hand and turn the crown gently with the other hand.
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Number of turns: 20 to 40 turns are enough to completely wind your watch. If you feel a slight resistance, this is completely normal. It is important not to force too much to avoid damaging the mechanism.
Step 4: Replace the crown
Once the watch is wound, if necessary, screw the crown back into the closed position to ensure the watch is water-resistant.
Watches without manual winding function
Some models such as the Seiko Arabic Dial 42mm SNKP21J1 or its little sister the Seiko Arabic Dial 34mm SNK063J5 do not have the manual winding function. For these watches, the only way to wind them is to wear them regularly, the movements of your wrist powering the movement. If they stop, you can shake them gently to restart them.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Which way should you wind your watch?
An automatic watch should always be wound clockwise. Turning it the other way will damage the mechanism.
How do I know if my watch needs to be wound?
If your watch stops or displays the wrong time, this is a sign that it needs to be wound.
Is there a risk if I don't wind my watch?
Without winding, the watch will eventually stop. If left unwound for too long, the spring may loosen and require repair.
How to position an automatic watch at night?
At night it is best to place your watch flat with the dial facing upwards to ensure it works properly.