How to wind a mechanical watch?

Mastering the art of winding a mechanical watch is crucial for maintaining its precision and extending its lifespan. Unlike quartz watches that run on batteries, mechanical watches are driven by intricate movements requiring regular winding. Whether you own a timeless Longines piece or a contemporary model, understanding the correct winding technique is vital for ensuring optimal performance.

In this guide, we'll explore what a mechanical watch is, offer step-by-step instructions on winding your watch effectively, and share essential care tips to keep your treasured timepiece in excellent condition. Embrace the elegance of tradition as we journey into the world of mechanical timekeeping.

Mechanical watches operate through a blend of engineering and craftsmanship, using gears, springs, and levers to tell time without electronic components. These watches showcase the artistry of horology, embodying a mix of tradition and innovation cherished by collectors. Mechanical movements are categorized into manual and automatic types:

• Manual movements require regular winding via the crown, enhancing the owner’s connection with the watch.
• Automatic movements utilize the wearer’s wrist movement to wind the mainspring automatically, keeping the watch running as long as it’s worn regularly. However, for a full wind, the crown must be used.

Mechanical watches differ markedly from quartz watches, which use a battery and quartz crystal for timekeeping. While quartz watches are typically more accurate and require less maintenance, mechanical watches offer a unique charm and heritage. Their visible intricate movements, craftsmanship, and the tactile experience of winding make them favored among watch enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate Longines' legacy of fine watchmaking.

Comparison table: mechanical vs quartz watches

Learning to wind a mechanical watch is essential for any enthusiast, ensuring your timepiece operates smoothly and accurately. Begin by identifying the crown, the small knob on the side of the watch case at 3 o’clock. The crown typically has several positions:

• First position: winding
• Second position: date setting (if applicable)
• Third position: time adjustment

Familiarize yourself with these positions to streamline the process.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Hold the watch steady in one hand, with the crown accessible.
2. Turn the crown clockwise slowly and gently.
3. Feel the resistance — this indicates the mainspring is tightening.
4. Count 20 to 30 turns for approximately 24 hours of power. For a full wind, the exact number of turns depends on the calibre.
5. Stop when you feel tension; do not force it to avoid overwinding.

If your watch has been idle, winding it fully ensures smooth operation. When worn daily, automatic mechanical watches will maintain power through wrist movement.

Regular winding is crucial for the longevity and performance of your mechanical watch. These watches rely on a complex system of gears and springs, and consistent winding keeps the lubrication in motion, reducing its alteration and ensuring it remains in the correct position.

• Wind your watch daily if worn regularly
• Always wind gently and avoid overwinding
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and heat
• Use a watch winder if you rotate between multiple timepieces
• Clean the case and bracelet with a soft, dry cloth
• Have your watch professionally serviced every 3 to 5 years by a Longines certified watchmaker

• The watch stops ticking
• The second hand jumps or stutters, indicating a low power reserve

Paying attention to these signs helps maintain accuracy and prevents wear on the movement.

If worn daily, wind your watch once a day. If you want it to keep running when not worn, wind it every 1–2 days. If running continuously is not necessary, winding it once a week will help keep the movement and lubrication in good condition.

Yes. Manual watches can be damaged if wound too tightly. Stop when resistance increases. Most automatic watches have overwind protection.

Manual watches require hand-winding. Automatic watches wind themselves through wrist movement but may also require occasional winding.

It’s not harmful short term, but letting it stop for extended periods without winding may cause oils to settle or dry.

A watch winder is useful if you rotate watches often. It helps maintain power and keeps complications (like date or moon phase) accurate.