What to do if an automatic mechanical watch stops running?

　　In modern society, many people work sitting down, drive or commute in vehicles, and walk very little. Manual winding (supplementary winding) has become essential when wearing an automatic watch; otherwise, the power reserve may be insufficient, leading to frequent stoppage and a decline in timekeeping accuracy. So, what should you do if your automatic mechanical watch stops?

　　Analysis of causes for automatic mechanical watches stopping

　　1 During use, because the mainspring of an automatic watch can generally maintain a certain level of tension, taking it off the wrist and leaving it stationary will still allow it to run for over twenty-four hours.

　　2 After years of use, the flexibility of an automatic watch may decrease due to wear on the automatic components. Therefore, you should still swing the watch for a certain period every night before bed to make up for insufficient power.

　　3 If the automatic winding mechanism fails, you can also wind the mainspring manually, though it will not fully wind. Manual winding will feel somewhat stiffer because the gears and oscillating weight of the automatic module will also rotate along with the ratchet wheel.

　　Precautions for using automatic mechanical watches

　　1 Wear normally and avoid shocks. Maintaining an appropriate level of physical activity is required to keep the mainspring wound and running normally (the watch may run slightly slow when the wearer's activity level is low, which is normal. When using for the first time, please rotate the crown 20-30 times to provide initial tension to the mainspring). Although watches are shock-resistant, strong external impacts can easily fracture the balance staff or wheel train pivots, and can also cause the regulator index to shift, affecting timekeeping.

　　2 Prevent magnetization. Although watches are made using non-magnetic materials that are not easily magnetised, timekeeping is heavily affected by magnetic fields, such as those near televisions, radio speakers, or magnetic clasps on backpacks or handbags.

　　3 Water resistance. Try not to wear the watch while swimming or doing laundry. Once it gets wet from rain or water exposure, do not pull out the crown to adjust the time; dry it immediately. Because the crown protrudes, try to avoid knocking it. Also, pay attention to the gap between the crown and the case; if it is too small, it will affect operation, while if it is too large, it will compromise water resistance and appearance.

　　4 Watch cleaning and servicing. Generally speaking, service intervals of 3 to 5 years are determined by several factors: ① watch sealing issues ② degree of wear and tear ③ quartz watches can have extended service intervals ④ men's watches or pocket watches generally have longer service intervals than thinner watches or women's watches.

　　5 Storing the watch when not in use for a long period. Do not store it in a wardrobe containing camphor balls or mothballs, as this will cause the watch oil to degrade and lead to inaccurate timekeeping. Wind the mainspring or wear it at monthly intervals to ensure the internal components remain flexible.

　　Precautions for the maintenance and use of automatic mechanical watches

　　Shock resistance: A watch is a very precise instrument, and a tiny space of no more than a few centimetres can contain hundreds of parts. Damage, loosening, or displacement of any of these components can cause inaccurate timekeeping or even stoppage. The impact on the appearance is the detachment of five elements: markers, hands, pins, gems, and the crystal.

　　Magnetic resistance: Avoid approaching magnetic fields, such as placing the watch near electrical appliances that generate magnetic fields (like speakers, refrigerators, computers, etc.) or magnetic objects (like magnets, mobile phones). In addition, women's handbag snap buttons and men's mobile phone case magnetic closures may magnetise the watch, causing inaccurate timekeeping or temporary stoppage.

　　Water resistance: Generally, watches have water-resistant functions, but if used improperly, the watch glass easily develops water vapour, becoming hazy and unclear. In cases of severe water ingress, moisture seeps into the movement, which easily rusts and damages the movement, shortening the watch's lifespan. Therefore, experts suggest that when water enters a watch, you should not merely take the simplest approach of air-drying it; you should also have the watch cleaned, lubricated, and serviced to protect the movement from damage.

　　After a period of time, we will find that the originally smooth and bright appearance of scratch-resistant watches is completely unrecognisable, with various scratches covering the crystal, bezel, and bracelet. The watches that once made us shine now look so dull that they are left abandoned in the dark corners of a drawer. Therefore, we have to raise our awareness of scratch prevention and pay attention to the following three points:

　　One: Do not leave watches in a cluttered drawer.

　　Two: Do not place watches near sharp objects such as coffee tables, bonsai plants, or fruit knives.

　　Three: Periodically send it to a service centre for polishing.

　　Second: Mid-to-high-end watches should undergo corresponding maintenance every two to three years, including replacing waterproof components, testing timekeeping performance and movement power consumption, cleaning the movement, and maintaining the exterior. Such maintenance services will effectively extend the lifespan of our timepieces.