Automatic Self-Winding Instructions
Understanding Your Automatic Self-Winding Movement
Your Wagstaff automatic watch is powered by a sophisticated mechanical movement that harnesses the natural motion of your wrist to wind the mainspring. Inside the movement, a weighted rotor oscillates with your arm movements, transferring energy through a series of gears to wind the mainspring automatically. The mainspring then powers your watch with the kinetic energy it is storing throughout the day.
How Automatic Winding Works
- The Rotor System: A semi-circular weighted rotor rotates freely inside the movement as you move your arm
- Energy Transfer: The rotor's movement is transmitted through a gear system to wind the mainspring
- Continuous Power: With regular wear (approximately 8+ hours daily with normal activity), the watch maintains power indefinitely
- Power Reserve: Your watch stores approximately 38-42 hours of power when fully wound
Crown Operation and Time Setting
Crown Positions
Your Wagstaff watch crown has three distinct positions. You'll see how to unscrew the crown below if you're not sure.
Position 0 (Fully Screwed Down):
- Normal wearing position
- Ensures water resistance to the designed depth
- The crown is locked and cannot be pulled out
- All functions are sealed
Position 1 (unscrewed but not in position 3 as below):
- A small gasket operates to pops the crown to this in-between position and, in this position, the watch can be wound up as if it were a non-self winding movement
- Note that in this position, the watch is not waterproof
Position 2 (First Pull position):
- Unscrewed and pulled out one position
- Used for manual winding only
- Date function remains active
- No water resistance avoid contact with all water
Position 3 (Second Pull position):
- Crown pulled out to maximum position gently
- Used for time and date setting - avoid resetting dates between 9pm and 3am
- Movement stops (hack function)
- No water resistance - avoid contact with water
Proper Crown Usage
Unscrewing the Crown:
1. Grip the crown gently between thumb and forefinger ALWAYS remove the watch from the wrist whilst doing this to avoid stressing the stem.
2. Turn counter-clockwise (towards you) while applying gentle outward pressure
3. The crown should unscrew smoothly - never force it
4. Once unscrewed, the crown will pop out slightly to Position 1
Setting the Time:
1. Unscrew the crown completely
2. Pull gently to Position 3 (maximum extension)
3. Turn clockwise or counter-clockwise to set the correct time
4. Push crown back to Position 2, then screw down clockwise until snug
Screwing Down the Crown:
1. Ensure crown is in Position 1 (pushed in completely)
2. Turn clockwise (away from you) while applying gentle inward pressure
3. Tighten until snug - do not over-tighten
4. The crown should sit flush with the case
Important: Always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before any water exposure to maintain your watch's water resistance rating.
Power Reserve and Daily Wear
Understanding Power Reserve
Your automatic watch relies on consistent movement to maintain power:
- Active Days: Normal daily activities provide sufficient winding
- Sedentary Days: Limited movement may not fully wind the mainspring
- Power Depletion: After 38-42 hours without movement, the watch will stop - see how to start it again below!
Low Activity Days
If you anticipate a particularly sedentary day:
- Give your watch 20-30 manual winds in the morning (Position 2)
- Occasional gentle wrist movements help maintain power
- Consider this especially important for desk workers or during illness
Starting a Stopped Watch
Proper Restart Procedure
When picking up your Wagstaff watch after it has stopped:
Step 1: Manual Winding (Essential)
1. Unscrew the crown to Position 2
2. Turn clockwise approximately 20-30 full rotations
3. This builds initial power in the mainspring
4. You should feel smooth resistance - stop when it feels snug
Step 2: Set the Time
1. Pull the crown to Position 3
2. Set the correct time
3. Push the crown back and screw it down completely
Important: Never rely on shaking alone to restart your watch. Shaking without proper manual winding can:
- Provide insufficient power for reliable operation
- Cause the watch to stop again quickly
- Potentially stress the movement components
Water Resistance Maintenance
Depth Ratings
Your Wagstaff watch is tested to specific water resistance standards.
- Always check your individual model's rating
- Water resistance is measured in static conditions
- Dynamic activities increase pressure significantly
Maintaining Water Resistance
- Crown Position: Always ensure crown is fully screwed down
- Regular Service: Seals deteriorate over time and require periodic replacement
- Temperature Changes: Avoid extreme temperature variations near water
- Impact: Hard impacts can compromise case integrity
Activities to Avoid (Unless Specifically Rated)
- Swimming or diving with crown unscrewed
- Hot showers or saunas (temperature extremes affect seals)
- Water sports without proper rating verification
Maintenance Tips
Daily Care
- Wind manually if worn infrequently
- Avoid setting time/date between 9 pm and 3 am (to protect date mechanism)
- Store in watch box or soft surface when not worn
Long-term Storage
- Wind fully before storage
- Store in cool, dry location
- Consider a watch winder for multiple automatic watches
Service Intervals
- Professional service every 8-10 years
- Water resistance testing annually if used in aquatic activities
- Immediate service if water enters the case
Troubleshooting
Watch Stops Frequently
- Increase daily wear time or supplement with manual winding
- Check that crown is fully screwed down
- May indicate service is needed
Crown Difficult to Operate
- Never force - seek professional service
- May indicate dried lubricants or seal issues
Condensation Under Crystal glass
- Stop wearing immediately
- Seek professional service - indicates seal failure
Remember: Your Wagstaff automatic watch is a precision mechanical instrument. When in doubt about any operation or if problems persist, consult an authorised watchmaker or contact Wagstaff Watches customer service.
*These instructions apply to standard Wagstaff automatic movements. Specific complications or special models may have additional requirements.*
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