How Long Does an Automatic Watch Last?
As with many mechanical objects, an automatic watch can last a lifetime if maintained and cared for correctly.
How Automatic Watches Work
Unlike battery powered watches, an automatic watch is powered by the wearer. A rotor within the mechanism oscillates with the wrists movements. This in turn charges the mainspring within the movement. A series of gears allows the spring to discharge its energy ultimately turning the hands of the watch. This is a crude explanation, however, accurate. Should you like to learn a little more about the operation of an automatic watch, then click here.
Factors Affecting an Automatic Watch's Lifespan
The lifespan of an automatic watch could be impacted by many aspects.
Firstly, you could look at where the movement has been manufactured. Switzerland has the reputation for producing the finest timepieces and movements in the world. This might be followed closely by Germany or Japan. The UK has had a long tradition of watchmaking and is currently bolstering itself in the watchmaking circles. There are many fake or mass produced imitations from China. Flooding the market with inferior components and manufacturing techniques which will directly affect the lifespan of an automatic watch.
Secondly, care and maintenance is paramount with extending the life of your watch. Servicing is key to keeping your watch running smoothly.
The environment can also impact on the lifespan. Extreme temperatures, either hot or cold can cause issues as one would expect. It is worth mentioning that brands now produce specialist watches to cope with extreme conditions and we cover this in another article here.
How To Maximise the Lifespan of Your Watch
There is absolutely no reason why an automatic watch shouldn't outlast any human.
Simple care while wearing will prolong it's lifespan. Likewise, servicing at the recommended intervals is critical to keep the movement lubricated and any worn parts replaced.
You should also keep the exterior case and bracelet clean and free of debris. This will prevent wear in between the links of the bracelet, thus negating the need for a replacement.
Signs Your Automatic Watch Needs Attention
There are a few tell tale signs that your automatic watch requires attention.
- Probably the most common sign is that the watch simply gains or loses time despite being fully wound.
- You may notice that the hands appear slightly out of line compared to previous.
- The date function may have stopped working.
- You may notice a subtle grating sound emanating from the rotor inside.
All these indicators point to the automatic watch requiring immediate attention by a trained watchmaker. We would recommend taking it to the store that you bought it from or a reputable high street jeweler.
How Long Can an Automatic Watch Last Without Service?
All automatic watches are different. All brands are different. With this in mind, all service intervals are likely to be different. Generally, watch manufacturers have recommended service intervals of between 5 and 10 years. However, there are always cases that will fall outside of this generalisation.
Some people report of never having their watch serviced. Servicing can often be eye prohibitively expensive, so some prefer to wait until an issue arises before sending for service. It is worth consulting the manual that will have been issued at purchase to determine what you automatic watch requires.
Can an Automatic Watch Last a Lifetime?
Simply put, yes and often do. Many people choose to look after their watches, so that they can be handed down to family members.
The guide would be simple; regularly clean, maintain, service and above all, wear the watch! Perhaps avoid extreme sports while wearing!
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