Quick answer: To wind a stopped automatic watch, leave the crown pushed in (or unscrew it if it screws down), then turn it clockwise, away from you, about 20 to 30 times. The seconds hand will start moving. Then pull the crown out to set the time. After that, simply wearing the watch keeps it wound.
Crown Positions Explained
| Position | Function |
|---|---|
| 0 (pushed in) | Hand-winding |
| 1 (first click) | Date setting, on watches with a date |
| 2 (fully out) | Time setting; on hacking movements the seconds hand stops |
On watches without a date, such as those with the Seiko NH70A skeleton movement, the first pulled-out position sets the time.
The crown is used to wind the movement and set the time, depending on its position.
Step-by-Step: Winding and Setting
- Take the watch off your wrist. This avoids bending the crown stem.
- Unscrew the crown if it is a screw-down type.
- Wind: in position 0, turn clockwise 20 to 30 full turns. You will not overwind it; automatics have a slipping clutch.
- Set the time: pull to the time-setting position and move the hands forward to the correct time.
- Set the date if your watch has one (see the warning below).
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Push the crown back in and screw it down if needed, so the watch stays water resistant.
Three basic steps for restarting and setting an automatic watch.
The Date-Change Warning
On watches with a date, avoid setting the date between about 9pm and 3am. The date mechanism is engaged then, and forcing it can damage the movement. Move the hands past 6 o'clock first, then set the date. This applies to the Emerald Automatic, which has a date at 3 o'clock.
On date-equipped watches, check the manufacturer's instructions before adjusting the date around the overnight change period.
How Long Does It Stay Wound?
A fully wound automatic runs for its power reserve, usually about 38 to 48 hours. If you wear it daily, the rotor keeps it topped up. Desk-bound days may not wind it fully, so a few crown turns each morning help. Do you need a winder? See do you need a watch winder?
The Seiko NH70A movement offers approximately 41 hours of power reserve when fully wound.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Winding while wearing the watch.
- Leaving the crown pulled out.
- Forcing the crown if it resists; stop and have it checked.
- Setting the date late at night.
Automatic Watches From Verso Parnell
Our skeleton automatics let you watch the mainspring wind as you turn the crown: Nebula (AED 2,500, approx. USD 681) and Silverera (AED 2,500, approx. USD 681). Free worldwide shipping, 2-year warranty, 30-day returns.
Explore Verso Parnell's automatic skeleton watches, featuring visible mechanical movement and distinctive octagonal cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times should I wind my automatic watch?
About 20 to 30 turns from stopped; fewer if you are just topping it up.
Can you overwind an automatic watch?
No. A slipping clutch prevents overwinding.
Which way do you wind an automatic watch?
Clockwise, turning the crown away from you as you look at the dial.
Do I need to wind an automatic watch every day?
Not if you wear it daily. Wind it if it has stopped or after a sedentary day.
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