An automatic watch is wound by the natural movements of the wearer. This means you do not have to wind it manually as long as it is worn regularly. It is precisely this practical everyday form of mechanical winding that gives an automatic watch its special appeal.
The idea of the self-winding watch is much older than the modern wristwatch. As early as the late 18th century, watchmakers were experimenting with mechanisms designed to wind a watch automatically. Abraham-Louis Perrelet is often named as one of the early inventors of self-winding, while Abraham-Louis Breguet made the principle particularly well known and reliable with his “Perpétuelle” watches.
However, this idea only became a major strength later on, when the watch moved from the pocket to the wrist. Suddenly, the exact thing a self-winding watch needed was available: regular, natural movement.
What is an automatic watch and how does it work?
An automatic watch is a mechanical watch that winds itself when worn. The movement of the wrist causes a rotor inside the watch to rotate. This transfers its motion via the winding mechanism to the mainspring, which stores energy and then releases it to the movement in a controlled manner.
This distinguishes it from a manual-winding watch, which is deliberately wound via the crown on a regular basis. Many modern automatic watches can also be wound by hand. This is useful if the watch has not been worn for a longer period and has stopped after its power reserve has run down.
The most important component of the automatic winding system is the rotor. It is a movable oscillating weight inside the movement. When the watch moves on the wrist, this rotor turns or swings with it.
In simplified terms, the process works as follows:
- The wrist moves the watch.
- The rotor starts moving.
- The winding mechanism transfers this motion.
- The mainspring inside the barrel is tensioned.
- The stored energy is released to the movement in a controlled way.
The watch therefore does not run directly from the current movement of the arm. The movement first tensions the mainspring. This spring stores the energy and then releases it evenly.
From there, the force is transmitted through the gear train to the hands. To prevent the energy from being released all at once, the movement needs an escapement. It releases the energy in small impulses. The balance wheel oscillates back and forth as the regulating organ, helping to turn stored spring force into the most even possible display of time.
In very simplified form, the interaction can be summarised as follows:
Movement → rotor → mainspring → gear train → escapement and balance wheel → movement of the hands
This sequence also explains why an automatic watch keeps running when it is taken off. It then runs on the energy that was previously stored in the mainspring. The length of time this energy lasts is described by the power reserve.
Memorigin Orbit Series Tourbillon: display case back with visible automatic movement.
How long does an automatic watch run without movement?
The power reserve describes how long an automatic watch continues to run when it is not worn or wound.
Many classic automatic movements are roughly in the range of 38 to 42 hours. Modern movements often offer longer power reserves of around 60 to 80 hours. Some calibres can even reach over 100 hours.
In everyday use, this can make a noticeable difference if you regularly put your watch aside for a longer period or, for example, like to rotate between different watches.
What should you do if an automatic watch stops?
If an automatic watch stops, this is not necessarily a cause for concern. In most cases, the power reserve has simply run down and the watch needs to be wound manually.
Many modern automatic watches can be wound by hand via the crown. It is also possible to restart the watch through controlled circular movements.
Important: the watch should not be shaken vigorously. Sudden, jerky movements place unnecessary strain on the rotor bearing, winding mechanism and other fine mechanical components.
The watch should be checked by a specialist if it repeatedly stops despite sufficient winding and regular wear, runs noticeably too fast or too slow, the power reserve noticeably decreases, or the crown becomes unusually difficult to operate. In such cases, magnetisation, an impact, the need for servicing or a technical problem may be the cause.
What should you know before buying?
Rate deviations are normal.
An automatic watch may gain or lose a few seconds per day depending on the movement, regulation and wearing habits. Quartz watches are usually more precise, while mechanical watches are technically more fascinating.
Servicing is part of long-term durability.
Oils age, seals wear out and mechanical components operate under load for many years. Occasional servicing helps keep the watch reliable in the long term.
Robustness depends on the watch as a whole.
An automatic watch is not automatically delicate. The case, crown, crystal, seals and construction of the specific model are decisive.
Automatic watch, quartz watch or manual winding?
The right watch depends on what you value most: mechanical character, precision, convenience or a conscious connection with the movement.
| Watch type | Particularly suitable if you … | Special feature |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic watch | appreciate mechanical watches and wear the watch regularly | winds itself when worn |
| Quartz watch | value high accuracy and straightforward use | runs very precisely on battery power |
| Manual-wind watch | enjoy deliberate interaction with the watch | is wound regularly via the crown |
An automatic watch combines mechanical fascination with a high level of wearing comfort. It is especially attractive for people who want a classic mechanical movement but do not want to wind it deliberately every day in everyday use.
Do you need a watch winder?
A watch winder moves an automatic watch at regular intervals, keeping it continuously wound and allowing you to wear it at any time without having to set it again.
A watch winder can be useful especially if several automatic watches are worn in rotation, or if a watch has more elaborate displays, such as calendar functions, that you do not want to reset regularly. For most watch owners, however, a watch winder is not necessary.
In addition to convenience, it also offers a way to present your watches attractively. Watch winders are available in a wide range of sizes, materials and designs.
Our article on watch winders explains this in more detail, including what to consider when buying and using one.
Frequently asked questions about automatic watches
How long does an automatic watch run without movement?
That depends on the power reserve. Many classic automatic movements run for around 38 to 42 hours. Modern movements can reach 60, 80 or more hours.
Can you overwind an automatic watch?
With modern automatic watches, overwinding is generally not possible because the automatic winding system has a protective mechanism. Nevertheless, the crown should never be turned further with force.
Is an automatic watch more accurate than a quartz watch?
Usually not. Quartz watches are generally more accurate. Depending on the movement, regulation and wearing habits, an automatic watch may gain or lose a few seconds per day.
How often does an automatic watch need to be serviced?
This depends on the model, the movement and how the watch is used. As a rough guide, servicing is often recommended for mechanical watches after several years. The watch should be checked at the latest if there are significant rate deviations, a declining power reserve or a crown that becomes difficult to operate.
Can movement damage an automatic watch?
Normal arm movements are exactly what the watch is designed for. Vigorous shaking or jerky movements are not recommended, as they can place unnecessary strain on the rotor bearing and winding mechanism.
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