How to Use & Care for Your First Automatic Watch

Automatic watches are self-winding mechanical timepieces powered by your wrist’s motion. This beginner guide will teach you how automatic watches work, how to wind them correctly, set the time and date, and maintain your watch so it keeps accurate time and lasts a lifetime. Perfect for first-time automatic watch owners and collectors alike.

What Is an Automatic Watch & How It Works

Automatic watches are powered by a mechanical movement that winds itself with the motion of your wrist. Unlike quartz watches, they do not require a battery, and regular wear keeps them running.

How to Wind Your Automatic Watch

With the crown pushed in, turn it clockwise 20–30 times to start the watch.
Most modern automatics have overwind protection — stop winding when you feel slight resistance.
Wearing the watch regularly usually keeps it wound automatically.

How to Set the Time and Date

Pull the crown to the correct position:

Position 1: Crown fully in – winds the movement.
Position 2: First click – adjusts the date.
Position 3: Second click – adjusts the time.

Avoid changing the date between ~9 PM and 3 AM to protect the mechanism.

Automatic Watch Water Resistance

If the crown does not screw down, do not submerge in water.
Screw-down crowns are suitable for handwashing, rain, or everyday exposure but not for swimming or diving unless specified.

Automatic Watch Care & Maintenance Tips

Wear your watch regularly — oils inside the movement stay evenly distributed with motion and warmth.
Keep your watch away from strong magnets, extreme temperatures, and prolonged water exposure.
Consider professional servicing every 3–5 years.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Automatic Watches

Q: How often should I wind my automatic watch?

A: If your automatic watch has stopped or hasn’t been worn for a day or more, manually wind it about 20–30 turns clockwise before wearing to build a solid power reserve. Regular daily wear often keeps the movement wound through wrist motion, so you may only need to wind it occasionally if worn consistently.

Q: What happens if my automatic watch stops?

A: Automatic watches have a limited power reserve (often ~40 hours). If not worn or wound, they will stop. Simply wind the crown clockwise 20–30 times until the watch starts running again, then set the time and date as needed.

Q: Can I overwind my automatic watch?

A: Most modern automatic movements include an overwind protection mechanism, so they won’t break from winding. However, stop winding once you feel resistance to avoid unnecessary wear.

Q: Do I need a watch winder for long-term storage?

A: Watch winders aren’t required for most users. They keep the mainspring moving if you rotate several watches frequently, but they’re a convenience, not a necessity.

Q: When should I set the date on my automatic watch?

A: Avoid setting the date between roughly 9 PM and 3 AM. Adjust the hands to a safe time (e.g., 6 AM) before changing the date.

Q: How should I care for my automatic watch long-term?

A: Clean the case and bracelet with a soft cloth, avoid strong magnets and extreme temperatures, and consider professional servicing every 3–5 years.

Explore our automatic watch collection or natural stone dial watches to find your perfect timepiece.