Automatic watches are masterpieces of horological engineering, but even the finest of them can occasionally stop beating. If you’ve ever faced this frustrating situation, you’re not alone. Many automatic watch owners wonder why their precious timepiece has chosen to take an unexpected break. In this article, we’ll explore the different reasons why an automatic watch may stop beating and discuss solutions to fix this problem.
Common Causes of Automatic Watch Stopping
Lack of Movement
Automatic watches are designed to be powered by the wearer's natural movement. If you don't wear your watch regularly and the internal rotor doesn't turn enough, the mainspring can run out of power and the watch will stop.
Motor Spring Unloaded
As mentioned earlier, the mainspring of an automatic watch stores the energy needed to power the watch movement. If this mainspring is completely discharged, the watch will stop until it is wound.
Lubrication Problems
Automatic watches require adequate lubrication to ensure smooth and precise movement of internal components. If lubrication becomes insufficient or accumulates with debris, it can cause excessive friction and the watch to stop.
Shocks or Impact
Strong shocks or impacts can damage the delicate internal components of an automatic watch, including the movement and winding mechanism. If your watch has suffered a strong shock or impact, it may cause it to stop suddenly.
Adjustment Problems
Sometimes, setting issues or incorrect setting can cause your automatic watch to stop. This can include problems with the crown, winding mechanism, or other components of the movement.
Solutions to Fix an Automatic Watch Stopping:
Now that we've looked at the potential causes of an automatic watch stopping, let's see how you can fix this problem and bring your beloved watch back to life.
Wear your watch regularly
The simplest and most effective solution is to wear your automatic watch regularly. The natural movement of your wrist will allow the internal rotor to turn and wind the mainspring, ensuring continuous operation of the watch.
Manually wind the watch
If your watch has stopped due to a dead mainspring, you can manually wind it using the crown. Turn the crown clockwise several times to wind the mainspring and restore energy to the watch.
Have your watch serviced
If your watch stops regularly or you are experiencing other operational issues, it is recommended that you have it serviced by a professional watchmaker. Regular maintenance can help resolve lubrication, adjustment, and other potential problems.
Avoid shocks and impacts
To prevent damage from shock or impact, avoid wearing your watch in situations where it may be damaged, such as during contact sports or intense physical activities.
Consult a professional watchmaker
If you are unable to resolve the issue on your own, it is recommended that you consult a professional watchmaker. A qualified watchmaker will be able to diagnose and repair any underlying issues with your automatic watch.
In conclusion, an automatic watch that stops working can be frustrating, but fortunately, most issues can be resolved with a little knowledge and know-how. By understanding the potential causes of an automatic watch that stops working and taking the appropriate steps to address them, you can extend the life of your watch and continue to enjoy its elegance and precision for many years to come. If you are experiencing persistent issues with your automatic watch, do not hesitate to consult a professional watchmaker for further assistance and advice.