What is an automatic mechanical watch? What is the working principle of an automatic mechanical watch?

　　Most mechanical watches nowadays are automatic mechanical watches, but do you actually know what an automatic mechanical watch is? How does it differ from a standard mechanical watch? If you want to know the answer, take a look at the insights on automatic mechanical watches brought to you by Xiaoya below.

　　What is an automatic mechanical watch?

　　An automatic mechanical watch builds upon a standard mechanical watch by adding an auxiliary automatic winding mechanism. A standard mechanical watch requires regular manual winding, otherwise, the watch will stop. With an automatic watch, you simply need to wear it on your wrist for a certain amount of time each day to keep it moving. As your arm moves, the automatic winding mechanism winds the mainspring.

　　Automatic watches can be divided into semi-automatic and fully automatic types. A semi-automatic watch winds only when the oscillating weight rotates in a specific direction, whereas a fully automatic watch winds regardless of which direction the oscillating weight turns. This differs from unidirectional reversing systems, bidirectional reversing systems, or ratchet-and-pawl mechanisms.

　　Bidirectional winding automatic watches are the most common. The ETA2000 movement and Citizen 8200 movement wind in a single direction. The ETA2892 movement and Orient 46941 movement feature bidirectional automatic winding.

　　Working principle of automatic mechanical watches

　　The vast majority use an eccentric oscillating weight (automatic rotor or automatic weight). Its shape is like a semicircular disc, made of a relatively heavy metal with a thicker edge, so most of the mass is on the edge of the rotor. It rotates by utilising gravity and the swing of the wearer's arm, driving a set of gears to wind the mainspring.

　　Sometimes the position and response of the oscillating weight fail to keep pace with the swinging rhythm of the arm. Automatic watches also have a certain winding efficiency, which depends on design and structural factors. Even the weight of the oscillating weight varies between watches. Currently, the most efficient winding mechanism uses a so-called "ratchet and pawl" structure, such as those used in SEIKO and certain IWC watches. The Japanese refer to this as the "magic lever automatic winding structure", while the Swiss call it the "Pellaton automatic winding structure". It is also quite sensitive to positional changes, and it is said that the winding efficiency of this type of automatic structure is over 30% higher than other general structures.

　　When a watch has been used for a certain period and is due for cleaning and lubrication, its winding efficiency will also be affected.

　　Precautions for wearing an automatic mechanical watch

　　1, avoid shocks

　　Maintaining an appropriate level of physical activity is necessary to keep the mainspring continuously wound and the watch running normally (when the wearer's activity level is low, the timekeeping may run slightly slow; this is completely normal). When using for the first time, please rotate the crown 20-30 times to achieve initial mainspring tension. Although watches are shock-resistant, strong external impacts can easily break the balance staff or gear train pivots, and can also cause the regulator to vibrate, affecting timekeeping accuracy (it is recommended to immediately seek shock inspection, use precision instruments to check the movement, consult reference materials for self-repair, or request professional repair assistance).

　　2, Watch water resistance

　　Try to avoid wearing your 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 off immediately instead. (Additional tip: soaking in medical alcohol followed by a cold hairdryer setting to accelerate evaporation can remove over 90% of moisture, but ensure it does not chemically react with the watch oil components—there are various watch oil formulas, and while a few may not react chemically with medical alcohol, keeping the alcohol density lower than the watch oil density is notoriously difficult). Since the crown protrudes, try to avoid knocks and bumps. Also, pay attention to the gap between the crown and the case; if it is too small, it will affect operation, whereas if it is too large, it will compromise water resistance and aesthetics.

　　3. Preventing Magnetisation

　　Although watches are crafted from non-magnetic materials that are difficult to magnetise, timekeeping can still be significantly affected by magnetic fields, such as those near televisions, radio speakers, or magnetic clasps on backpacks or handbags. However, rest assured that the impact of magnetic fields is usually negligible. (If exposed to an induction magnetic field, consider whether metal shielding enclosures are practical).

　　4, Watch cleaning

　　Generally speaking, 3 to 5 years for a service and cleaning is determined by the following factors: ① The water-resistant sealing of the watch ② The degree of wear and tear from wearing ③ Quartz watches can have extended service intervals ④ Men's watches or pocket watches can generally have longer service intervals than slimmer or women's watches.

　　Recommended automatic mechanical replica watches

　　Rolex Datejust Automatic Mechanical Gold Watch 116233G Datejust Gold Watch

　　Top-tier version, gold-wrapped bracelet and bezel, consistent with the original version, an essential watch model for high rollers

　　Series:Datejust Collection

　　Movement: replica ETA2836 movement, replica Rolex 3132 movement, Swiss ETA2836 movement

　　Bracelet: gold bracelet

　　Case: Rose gold-plated

　　Review:

　　◆ This Rolex 116233G model is currently the highest quality version, a perfect replica with craftsmanship remarkably close to the genuine article;

　　◆ Three movement options are available, including a genuine original Swiss ETA movement for clients seeking the highest quality;

　　◆ The dial size of the 36MM is moderate, making it ideal for smaller wrists;

　　◆ Gold-plated 18K crown, engraved with the same logo as the genuine model, offering smooth rotation during adjustment;

　　◆ Gold-plated 18K bracelet, expertly polished and flawless;

　　◆ Gold-plated 18K fluted bezel, with fluted texture and colour matching the genuine piece;

　　Although automatic mechanical watches are extremely convenient to wear, you still need to take care of your beloved watch during daily use; otherwise, even the finest watch will break.

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