🕰️ How to Wind and Adjust a Mechanical or Automatic Watch: A Simple Guide

🕰️ How to Wind and Adjust a Mechanical or Automatic Watch: A Simple Guide

Mechanical and automatic watches are timeless instruments that require a bit of hands-on care. Whether you’re new to owning one or simply need a refresher, here’s a clear, illustrated guide on how to wind and adjust your timepiece correctly.

🔧 Understanding Crown Positions

The watch crown has three positions, each with its own function:

(We’ll replace the image with an English-labeled version — see below.)

Position Function Direction
A Manual winding Clockwise
B Adjust date & weekday Date: Clockwise
Weekday: Counterclockwise
C Set time Turn in either direction

🔋 Manual Winding (Position A)

Rotate the crown clockwise while in Position A.
You’ll hear a slight clicking sound and feel some resistance — this is the mainspring being wound.

  • Wind the crown about 25–30 times to fully power the movement.

  • Do not overwind. Once you feel strong resistance, stop.

⚙️ Adjusting the Date & Day (Position B)

Pull the crown to Position B:

  • Clockwise to change the date

  • Counterclockwise to change the weekday

💡 Tip: Avoid adjusting the date between 9:00 PM and 3:00 AM, as the watch's internal calendar gear may be in motion.

🕓 Setting the Time (Position C)

Pull the crown fully to Position C, then rotate it to set the time.
Most mechanical watches allow time to be set forward or backward, but always check your movement’s manual to be safe.

🔄 Powering an Automatic Watch

Automatic watches use a rotor to wind themselves through wrist movement. However, when first received or not worn for a while, they are usually stopped.

Here’s what to do:

  • Manually wind 25 turns (Position A) to give it initial power.

  • Wear it daily to keep it running. A fully wound automatic watch typically runs 36–40 hours when not in use.

If you don’t wear it for a day or two, it may stop — simply wind it again before use.

⏱️ How Accurate Is a Mechanical Watch?

  • Most mechanical watches have an acceptable deviation of ±30 seconds/day.

  • COSC-certified chronometers operate between -4 and +6 seconds/day.

  • Accuracy depends on the movement, not price — some mid-range movements can outperform more expensive ones.

🧠 Final Tips

  • Wind your watch at the same time each day, ideally in the morning.

  • Always handle your watch gently when adjusting — never force the crown.

  • For automatic watches, consider using a watch winder if you don’t wear it daily.

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