Introduction to Mechanical Movements: Automatic or Manual?

Sometimes the ticking of a watch moves not only time, but our emotions.

When I held my first mechanical watch, I felt exactly that. It was more than just a timepiece; it was like a second heart beating on my wrist.

Years passed. My life shaped by technical education and professional experience deepened my fascination with mechanical watches. And now, looking back, I can easily say: mechanical watches are not only feats of engineering, but vessels of passion.

But just like anyone stepping into this world, I encountered the classic question:

Automatic or manual?

What is a Mechanical Watch?

Mechanical watches are powered by a mainspring and contain no electronics. Once wound, this spring slowly releases energy to drive the watch. No batteries, no microchips—just gears, springs, a balance wheel, and pure mechanical harmony.

There are two main types:

• Manual-wind watches – require hand-winding
• Automatic watches – self-winding through motion

Let’s get to know these two companions.

Moments You Wind by Hand: Manual Watches

My first watch was a manual. Before I stirred my morning coffee, I’d give the crown a few gentle turns. This small ritual brought me a quiet sense of control throughout the day—as if I was setting my own pace.

Manual watches require daily winding (or every 40 hours or so). There’s no rotor, which allows for a thinner design.

Advantages:

• Elegant, slim case
• Personal connection through daily winding
• Cleaner mechanism view due to rotor absence

Keep in mind:

• Needs regular winding
• Overwinding can be harmful (though high-quality movements often have safeguards)

Intelligence in Motion: Automatic Watches

Meeting my first automatic was a different experience. This time, I wasn’t winding the watch—it was winding itself with me. Every movement of my wrist spun its rotor, storing energy and keeping time alive.

Automatic watches include a free-spinning rotor that winds the mainspring as you move.

Advantages:

• No need for daily winding during regular use
• Most have optional manual winding
• Common calibers offer easy service and spare parts

To consider:

• Can stop if left unworn for long
• Rotor sound may be noticeable in quiet moments

So, Which One Is for You?

• If hand-winding brings a sense of presence to your morning: Manual.
• If your life flows with movement and rhythm: Automatic.
• Or like me, you might appreciate each one in different moments.

Remember, a watch isn’t always just an object—it can reflect how you want to live your time.

Bonus: A Quick Comparison Table for Watch Enthusiasts

Closing: The Story Inside the Ticking

Even now, there are mornings when I reach for my manual watch. Starting the day with that quiet tick gives it a different meaning. Other times, as I race through the city, it’s the rhythm of my automatic that keeps up with me.

And in both, I feel the same thing:
It’s my time—whatever lives inside the watch, it beats with me.