What matters need attention when purchasing a mechanical watch?

　　Mechanical watches are much more complex than quartz watches. Although they may not be as accurate as quartz watches in terms of timekeeping, they remain deeply loved by seasoned watch enthusiasts. Especially for friends attending formal occasions, mechanical watches are still accessories that are hard to replace, so many friends still have to faceMechanical watchthis object, especially newcomers who are about to acquire a mechanical watch.

　　First, what explicitly defines a mechanical watch?

　　A mechanical watch, simply put, is a timepiece driven entirely by internal mechanical structures such as mainsprings and gears, rather than by batteries, solar power, or other energy sources. It is further divided into manual-winding mechanical watches and automatic mechanical watches. As the names suggest, no further explanation is needed here. We all know that many people love mechanical wristwatches; whether it is the adjustment process, observing the details of the movement, or listening to the sound of the movement, it is all a form of enjoyment. Little do they know, the core part of a mechanical movement is the escapement mechanism, which watchmakers call the movement of the movement. This is because the escapement mechanism allows power to undergo regular periodic motion, which is also the core reason why mechanical clocks and watches can keep time or time intervals regularly. The 'pallet' (catching) locks the main transmission motion, at which point the main transmission chain of the watch is locked; the 'release' uses a part of the potential energy of the oscillating system to open (release) the main transmission chain motion, while taking back a certain amount of energy from the main transmission chain to sustain the operation of the oscillating system. The escapement mechanism in the modern sense was first born in the 15th century, and later gradually evolved into its various current forms. To this day, based on basic principles, hundreds of escapement mechanisms have been derived for use in modern timepieces, maintaining the regular periodic "motion" (timekeeping or timing) of various mechanical clocks and watches.

Omega Seamaster series 231.10.42.21.02.006 watch, 2016 new model, custom 8500 movement

　　What issues should be considered when purchasing a mechanical watch?

　　1, check whether it can start up automatically. The method is to gently hold the watch whose mainspring has been relaxed and has stopped, wind it slowly while watching the second hand, which should start moving as soon as winding begins, otherwise it does not meet the standard.

　　2, check the sound of the watch in various positions. After winding a few turns, place the dial facing up and down, and the crown facing up, down, left, and right. Listen to ensure that its frequency and beat in all positions are basically consistent. After fully winding, the sound should be crisp and without noise.

　　3, hand-setting test. The hand-setting feel should be neither too loose nor too tight, but it is normal for the second hand to stop or reverse when setting backwards.

　　4, it should be noted that because watches undergo 'static testing' during assembly, adjustment, and inspection, wearing them on the wrist will cause dynamic errors in timekeeping due to arm movement, often making the watch run slow. In addition, watches will gradually run slow over long periods of use. Therefore, making it slightly fast by a few seconds during 'static testing' is more appropriate.

　　Although mechanical watches are distinctive and very charming, they are also relatively delicate, especially for friends who plan to buy or have already bought expensive mechanical watches. You must pay special attention to some basic issues regarding mechanical watches to avoid ruining your good mood due to carelessness.

Related reading:

Why do mechanical watches have errors?

How do mechanical watches store power?

Do automatic mechanical watches still need manual winding?

What is the permissible timekeeping error range for a mechanical watch?

Manual-Wind vs Automatic: Which Mechanical Watch Is Better?