How an automatic
watch keeps on ticking
WHILE WATCHES COME IN many styles, when it comes to function all
watches generally fall into one of two categories: battery-run quartz watches
and mechanical watches. Automatic timepieces are included in the latter
group because of the fascinating and intricate mec
ha-nism that makes them tick.
An automatic watch is self-winding. The watch
winds progressively with the motion of the wrist and
body. This movement causes the small weight or
rotor attached to the winding mechanism to pivot
freely, thereby winding the timepiece.
Because these watches don’t require batteries
and are powered solely by the body’s movement,
they stop running if they are not worn for more
than a day or two. When this happens, the wearer
can turn the crown several times, thus creating
some immediate reserve power. Once the watch
has begun running, the date and time can be set. A freely spinning rotator keeps an automatic
It is recommended that automatic timepieces watch wound while it’s
that are not worn daily be stored in a watch-winder being worn.
box. A winder box can hold one or two watches
and moves the timepieces in circles to approximate the motion of the body.
No t only will the winding box keep an automatic watch always ready to wear,
it will also prevent the lubricant within the gears from congealing, which,
over time, can diminish the watch’s accuracy.
Often appreciated for their craftsmanship,
automatic watches are also built for longevity.
In fact, these timepieces have traditionally
enjoyed heirloom status with families
throughout history. They are a wonderful
example of how centuries-old, ingenious
technology still very much has its place
in our time. A
This article sponsored by Invicta. Invicta was
founded in 1837 with the belief that modest
pricing and high-quality, luxury timepieces
could go hand in hand. This global brand
has grown to include 20 diverse collections,
including some models available at Costco.
See more at www.invictawatch.com.
To keep an automatic watch wound
when it is not being worn, store it in
a watch winder. watch winder.
