How Do Automatic Watches Work? The Complete Guide
Curious how automatic watches work without a battery? This complete guide covers winding, setting, and caring for your self-winding luxury timepiece.
STORIES
STORIES
What Is An Automatic Watch? Self-Winding Movements Explained
Learn about automatic watches and their self-winding movements in our comprehensive guide.
November 2024
The World of Automatic Watches
Automatic watches are precision-engineered timepieces that operate without a battery, harnessing the wearer’s wrist movement. This guide explores their mechanics and features, enhancing your appreciation for these self-winding marvels. Let’s dive in.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
The World of Automatic Watches
Automatic watches are precision-engineered timepieces that operate without a battery, harnessing the wearer’s wrist movement. This guide explores their mechanics and features, enhancing your appreciation for these self-winding marvels. Let’s dive in.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
1. What Is An Automatic Watch?
1. What Is An Automatic Watch?
Automatic watches are powered with daily wear to tell time without a battery.
Automatic watches are powered with daily wear to tell time without a battery.
Watches are defined by the movement inside powering the watch. Similar to car engines, watch movements determine the functionality and quality of the timepiece. There are three types of watch movements: Mechanical, Automatic, and Quartz.
Automatic watches are among the most advanced of the three movement types. Also known as self-winding watches, automatic watch movements can keep accurate time with daily wear, unlike mechanical watches that require manual winding or quartz watches that rely on batteries.
Automatic watches are among the most advanced of the three movement types. Also known as self-winding watches, automatic watch movements can keep accurate time with daily wear, unlike mechanical watches that require manual winding or quartz watches that rely on batteries.
Watches are defined by the movement inside powering the watch. Similar to car engines, watch movements determine the functionality and quality of the timepiece. There are three types of watch movements: Mechanical, Automatic, and Quartz.
Automatic watches are among the most advanced of the three movement types. Also known as self-winding watches, automatic watch movements can keep accurate time with daily wear, unlike mechanical watches that require manual winding or quartz watches that rely on batteries.
Automatic watches are among the most advanced of the three movement types. Also known as self-winding watches, automatic watch movements can keep accurate time with daily wear, unlike mechanical watches that require manual winding or quartz watches that rely on batteries.
2. What Are Automatic Watch Movements?
2. What Are Automatic Watch Movements?
Automatic watch movements include a rotor that uses the energy from the wearer's wrist motion to power the watch. With regular wear, an automatic watch continues to function without needing manual winding. High-quality automatic movements are built to be reliable and can be serviced to last for decades.
Discover more in our article: How Do Automatic Watches Work? The Complete Guide.
Discover more in our article: How Do Automatic Watches Work? The Complete Guide.
Automatic watch movements include a rotor that uses the energy from the wearer's wrist motion to power the watch. With regular wear, an automatic watch continues to function without needing manual winding. High-quality automatic movements are built to be reliable and can be serviced to last for decades.
Discover more in our article: How Do Automatic Watches Work? The Complete Guide.
Discover more in our article: How Do Automatic Watches Work? The Complete Guide.
3. Anatomy of An Automatic Watch - Parts Explained
3. Anatomy of An Automatic Watch - Parts Explained
Get to know the various components of an automatic watch and understand how each part functions to keep the watch running smoothly. Familiarizing yourself with these essential elements will enhance your appreciation for the intricate mechanics and craftsmanship behind these self-winding timepieces.
Get to know the various components of an automatic watch and understand how each part functions to keep the watch running smoothly. Familiarizing yourself with these essential elements will enhance your appreciation for the intricate mechanics and craftsmanship behind these self-winding timepieces.
MOVEMENT
Also known as a calibre, it’s the mechanism that powers the watch
MOVEMENT
Also known as a calibre, it’s the mechanism that powers the watch
CASE
Exterior metal shell that protects the movement and dial parts
CASE
Exterior metal shell that protects the movement and dial parts
DIAL
Decorative metal plate that displays key timekeeping metrics
DIAL
Decorative metal plate that displays key timekeeping metrics
SAPPHIRE CRYSTAL
Extremely scratch-resistant clear glass used in high quality watches
SAPPHIRE CRYSTAL
Extremely scratch-resistant clear glass used in high quality watches
CROWN
Outside gear that adjusts the time and winds the watch movement
CROWN
Outside gear that adjusts the time and winds the watch movement
HANDS AND DATE DISC
Tracking markers that display units of time and date on the dial
HANDS AND DATE DISC
Tracking markers that display units of time and date on the dial
BRACELET OR STRAP
Metal band or leather strap that secures the watch onto the wrist
BRACELET OR STRAP
Metal band or leather strap that secures the watch onto the wrist
BUCKLE
Clasp that fastens and releases to adjust the watch on the wrist
BUCKLE
Clasp that fastens and releases to adjust the watch on the wrist
4. The History of Automatic Watches
4. The History of Automatic Watches
Automatic watches have a rich history that began in the 18th century, evolving from early pocket watches to sophisticated timepieces. These innovative watches convert the wearer's movement into energy, eliminating the need for manual winding. Renowned for their craftsmanship and engineering excellence, automatic watches remain popular among collectors and enthusiasts, blending traditional artistry with modern technology.
Automatic watches have a rich history that began in the 18th century, evolving from early pocket watches to sophisticated timepieces. These innovative watches convert the wearer's movement into energy, eliminating the need for manual winding. Renowned for their craftsmanship and engineering excellence, automatic watches remain popular among collectors and enthusiasts, blending traditional artistry with modern technology.
1770s: The First Automatic Movement
The quest for precise timekeeping has fascinated inventors for centuries. In 1776, Swiss watchmaker Abraham Louis Perrelet in Le Locle created the first automatic movement for pocket watches. This innovative design allowed the watch to wind itself through the wearer’s natural wrist movements, eliminating the need for manual winding. Perrelet's invention laid the foundation for future automatic watches, merging practicality with artistry and inspiring further innovations in self-winding timepieces.
1910s: Rising In Popularity
Wristwatches gained popularity after World War I, as soldiers discovered the practicality of wearing them on their wrists. By the war’s end, they had become essential accessories, with many returning soldiers sporting them. This shift transformed wristwatches from functional tools to fashionable items, paving the way for their evolution into everyday staples that combined style with functionality.
1920s: The First Automatic Wristwatch
In 1923, British watchmaker John Harwood introduced the first automatic wristwatch, known as the "bumper" watch. Featuring a rotor that moved 180 degrees, it required rewinding after about 12 hours. Though bulky and imperfect, the bumper watch marked a significant step toward creating self-sustaining timepieces for daily use, inspiring future innovations in automatic wristwatches.
1930s: The First Perpetual Movement
A major advancement occurred in 1930 with the launch of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual. This watch featured a rotor that could rotate 360 degrees, enabling it to run autonomously for over 24 hours. This perpetual movement became a benchmark for modern automatic watches, establishing new standards for reliability and performance, while enhancing Rolex's reputation as a luxury leader.
2020s: Today's Timepieces
Today, Switzerland’s Watch Valley in the Jura Mountains produces the world’s finest automatic movements. Renowned heritage brands and select independent watchmakers uphold centuries of horological excellence in this historic region, which continues to shape the future of luxury watchmaking. Here, contemporary designs meet the highest standards of Swiss engineering, with modern brands like VIEREN proudly carrying on this legacy to create automatic timepieces that celebrate the art of luxury watchmaking.
1770s: The First Automatic Movement
The quest for precise timekeeping has fascinated inventors for centuries. In 1776, Swiss watchmaker Abraham Louis Perrelet in Le Locle created the first automatic movement for pocket watches. This innovative design allowed the watch to wind itself through the wearer’s natural wrist movements, eliminating the need for manual winding. Perrelet's invention laid the foundation for future automatic watches, merging practicality with artistry and inspiring further innovations in self-winding timepieces.
1910s: Rising In Popularity
Wristwatches gained popularity after World War I, as soldiers discovered the practicality of wearing them on their wrists. By the war’s end, they had become essential accessories, with many returning soldiers sporting them. This shift transformed wristwatches from functional tools to fashionable items, paving the way for their evolution into everyday staples that combined style with functionality.
1920s: The First Automatic Wristwatch
In 1923, British watchmaker John Harwood introduced the first automatic wristwatch, known as the "bumper" watch. Featuring a rotor that moved 180 degrees, it required rewinding after about 12 hours. Though bulky and imperfect, the bumper watch marked a significant step toward creating self-sustaining timepieces for daily use, inspiring future innovations in automatic wristwatches.
1930s: The First Perpetual Movement
A major advancement occurred in 1930 with the launch of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual. This watch featured a rotor that could rotate 360 degrees, enabling it to run autonomously for over 24 hours. This perpetual movement became a benchmark for modern automatic watches, establishing new standards for reliability and performance, while enhancing Rolex's reputation as a luxury leader.
2020s: Today's Timepieces
Today, Switzerland’s Watch Valley in the Jura Mountains produces the world’s finest automatic movements. Renowned heritage brands and select independent watchmakers uphold centuries of horological excellence in this historic region, which continues to shape the future of luxury watchmaking. Here, contemporary designs meet the highest standards of Swiss engineering, with modern brands like VIEREN proudly carrying on this legacy to create automatic timepieces that celebrate the art of luxury watchmaking.
5. Automatic, Mechanical, and Quartz Watch Differences
5. Automatic, Mechanical, and Quartz Watch Differences
Automatic and mechanical watches use winding mechanisms, while quartz watches run on batteries.
Automatic and mechanical watches use winding mechanisms, while quartz watches run on batteries.
Both automatic and mechanical watches are powered by intricate movements, yet they operate differently. Automatic watches wind themselves through the natural motion of the wearer’s wrist, utilizing a rotor that spins with movement, making them more convenient for daily wear. In contrast, mechanical watches require manual winding, fostering a more intimate connection between the wearer and the timepiece.
Quartz watches, on the other hand, are battery-powered and rely on quartz crystals for precise timekeeping, often exceeding the accuracy of mechanical movements. While automatic watches are celebrated for their craftsmanship and engineering, quartz watches are typically lighter and thinner, appealing to those who prioritize convenience.
For an in-depth comparison, read our article: Automatic vs. Mechanical vs. Quartz: Watch Movements Explained.
Quartz watches, on the other hand, are battery-powered and rely on quartz crystals for precise timekeeping, often exceeding the accuracy of mechanical movements. While automatic watches are celebrated for their craftsmanship and engineering, quartz watches are typically lighter and thinner, appealing to those who prioritize convenience.
For an in-depth comparison, read our article: Automatic vs. Mechanical vs. Quartz: Watch Movements Explained.
Both automatic and mechanical watches are powered by intricate movements, yet they operate differently. Automatic watches wind themselves through the natural motion of the wearer’s wrist, utilizing a rotor that spins with movement, making them more convenient for daily wear. In contrast, mechanical watches require manual winding, fostering a more intimate connection between the wearer and the timepiece.
Quartz watches, on the other hand, are battery-powered and rely on quartz crystals for precise timekeeping, often exceeding the accuracy of mechanical movements. While automatic watches are celebrated for their craftsmanship and engineering, quartz watches are typically lighter and thinner, appealing to those who prioritize convenience.
For an in-depth comparison, read our article: Automatic vs. Mechanical vs. Quartz: Watch Movements Explained.
Quartz watches, on the other hand, are battery-powered and rely on quartz crystals for precise timekeeping, often exceeding the accuracy of mechanical movements. While automatic watches are celebrated for their craftsmanship and engineering, quartz watches are typically lighter and thinner, appealing to those who prioritize convenience.
For an in-depth comparison, read our article: Automatic vs. Mechanical vs. Quartz: Watch Movements Explained.
6. Automatic Watch Maintenance Basics
6. Automatic Watch Maintenance Basics
Brands like ETA SA Manufacture are top-tier, with Sellita and Ronda also leading the industry. When assessing automatic watches, consider the number of jewels, power reserve, and water resistance. Proper maintenance is essential for longevity and precision, as automatic watches rely on wrist movement. Wear them regularly or use a watch winder when not in use. Routine care includes winding if unworn, keeping it clean and dry, and servicing every 3-5 years to ensure accurate and smooth operation.
Check out our Automatic Watch Care Guide for detailed care tips.
Check out our Automatic Watch Care Guide for detailed care tips.
Brands like ETA SA Manufacture are top-tier, with Sellita and Ronda also leading the industry. When assessing automatic watches, consider the number of jewels, power reserve, and water resistance. Proper maintenance is essential for longevity and precision, as automatic watches rely on wrist movement. Wear them regularly or use a watch winder when not in use. Routine care includes winding if unworn, keeping it clean and dry, and servicing every 3-5 years to ensure accurate and smooth operation.
Check out our Automatic Watch Care Guide for detailed care tips.
Check out our Automatic Watch Care Guide for detailed care tips.
7. Best Automatic Watch Movements
7. Best Automatic Watch Movements
Swiss automatic movements, are globally revered as the gold standard for quality.
Swiss automatic movements, are globally revered as the gold standard for quality.
Swiss Made is a prestigious legal designation reserved for the world’s finest and most reliable timepieces. To identify authentic watches, look for the Certified Swiss Made label on the dial or caseback. Leading brands, such as ETA SA Manufacture (part of the Swatch Group), set the standard, followed by Sellita and Ronda movements. When assessing the overall quality of a movement, consider factors such as the number of jewels, power reserve duration, and water resistance depth.
Are you in the market for an automatic watch? Explore our article: 9 Expert Tips on Buying Your First Automatic Watch.
Are you in the market for an automatic watch? Explore our article: 9 Expert Tips on Buying Your First Automatic Watch.
Swiss Made is a prestigious legal designation reserved for the world’s finest and most reliable timepieces. To identify authentic watches, look for the Certified Swiss Made label on the dial or caseback. Leading brands, such as ETA SA Manufacture (part of the Swatch Group), set the standard, followed by Sellita and Ronda movements. When assessing the overall quality of a movement, consider factors such as the number of jewels, power reserve duration, and water resistance depth.
Are you in the market for an automatic watch? Explore our article: 9 Expert Tips on Buying Your First Automatic Watch.
Are you in the market for an automatic watch? Explore our article: 9 Expert Tips on Buying Your First Automatic Watch.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Are there different types of automatic movements?
Yes, there are various automatic movements, each with its own design and features, including different power reserves and jewel counts.
Can I manually wind an automatic watch?
Yes, most automatic watches have a manual winding feature that allows you to wind the watch even when it's not being worn.
Are automatic watches suitable for everyday wear?
Yes, they are designed for daily use and can keep accurate time with regular wear.
How do I maintain my automatic watch?
Regularly wind it, keep it clean, and service it every few years to ensure optimal performance.
Why should I choose an automatic watch over a quartz watch?
Automatic watches offer superior craftsmanship, tradition, and mechanical complexity that quartz watches do not provide.
Yes, there are various automatic movements, each with its own design and features, including different power reserves and jewel counts.
Can I manually wind an automatic watch?
Yes, most automatic watches have a manual winding feature that allows you to wind the watch even when it's not being worn.
Are automatic watches suitable for everyday wear?
Yes, they are designed for daily use and can keep accurate time with regular wear.
How do I maintain my automatic watch?
Regularly wind it, keep it clean, and service it every few years to ensure optimal performance.
Why should I choose an automatic watch over a quartz watch?
Automatic watches offer superior craftsmanship, tradition, and mechanical complexity that quartz watches do not provide.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Are there different types of automatic movements?
Yes, there are various automatic movements, each with its own design and features, including different power reserves and jewel counts.
Can I manually wind an automatic watch?
Yes, most automatic watches have a manual winding feature that allows you to wind the watch even when it's not being worn.
Are automatic watches suitable for everyday wear?
Yes, they are designed for daily use and can keep accurate time with regular wear.
How do I maintain my automatic watch?
Regularly wind it, keep it clean, and service it every few years to ensure optimal performance.
Why should I choose an automatic watch over a quartz watch?
Automatic watches offer superior craftsmanship, tradition, and mechanical complexity that quartz watches do not provide.
Yes, there are various automatic movements, each with its own design and features, including different power reserves and jewel counts.
Can I manually wind an automatic watch?
Yes, most automatic watches have a manual winding feature that allows you to wind the watch even when it's not being worn.
Are automatic watches suitable for everyday wear?
Yes, they are designed for daily use and can keep accurate time with regular wear.
How do I maintain my automatic watch?
Regularly wind it, keep it clean, and service it every few years to ensure optimal performance.
Why should I choose an automatic watch over a quartz watch?
Automatic watches offer superior craftsmanship, tradition, and mechanical complexity that quartz watches do not provide.
SUMMARY
Automatic watches are the original Fitbit. First introduced in the 1770s, automatic watch movements are powered by your momentum when worn every day. These movements are renowned for their reliability, accuracy, and intricate craftsmanship. By understanding the different parts of an automatic watch, you can start to appreciate how these complicated mechanisms tell time accurately for decades without a battery.
SUMMARY
Automatic watches are the original Fitbit. First introduced in the 1770s, automatic watch movements are powered by your momentum when worn every day. These movements are renowned for their reliability, accuracy, and intricate craftsmanship. By understanding the different parts of an automatic watch, you can start to appreciate how these complicated mechanisms tell time accurately for decades without a battery.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jess Chow, Founder and CEO VIEREN
As Canada’s first female founder of a luxury watch brand, Jess is passionate about horology and dedicated to crafting modern Swiss Made timepieces that merge artistry and precision with VIEREN.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jess Chow, Founder and CEO VIEREN
As Canada’s first female founder of a luxury watch brand, Jess is passionate about horology and dedicated to crafting modern Swiss Made timepieces that merge artistry and precision with VIEREN.
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