Some common sense about mechanical watches
2020-08-20
A watch is a timekeeping device, and also a precision instrument for measuring and indicating time. In the traditional watch industry, watches are divided into two categories: mechanical watches and quartz watches (nowadays there are also electronic watches). Therefore, when people need to choose a watch, they often compare mechanical watches with quartz watches, and they always don't understand why mechanical watches are less accurate than quartz watches but cost so much more?
Compared to other types of watches, mechanical watches have an inherent advantage - they rely entirely on mechanical principles to complete timekeeping tasks. Although it feels somewhat primitive and cannot keep up with the trend of modern technological development, the charm of the mechanism itself is incomparable to other watches. I'd like to share some knowledge about mechanical watches with you.

I. It is normal for mechanical watches to have timing errors
It is normal for mechanical watches to have timing errors, and even large errors, with a daily fast or slow of 30s being within the normal range. The timing of a mechanical watch is affected by many factors, including the movement, insufficient power reserve, temperature, pressure, vibration, magnetic fields, etc.
Insufficient power reserve is a problem that most people will encounter. Before the mainspring power is released quickly, it will cause the watch to run slow. Even if many people wear it for 8 hours a day, due to insufficient arm movement, the mainspring still does not have enough power to maintain timekeeping.
II. Manual winding does not damage automatic mechanical watches
Manual winding has no effect on automatic mechanical watches; it is a separate additional part. If an automatic mechanical watch has stopped running, manual winding is needed when wearing it again to allow the mainspring to quickly enter a state of uniform power release. Relying solely on automatic winding may result in insufficient power.
III. How many turns should you wind manually?
Most mechanical watches have a power reserve of 48 hours, and the number of winding turns is approximately 20-30. Of course, this is not fixed; you should stop winding when the crown starts to tighten. You don't need to wind it to 100% each time; moderate winding is sufficient.

IV. What is "stainless steel"?
"Stainless steel" is a type of stainless steel, generally referring to 316L steel, which has excellent corrosion resistance and anti-allergy properties. Some people have also heard of 904L steel, which is slightly better in performance than 316L steel. Rolex extensively uses this material, so it is also called Rolex steel.
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