Automatic movement

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Joey
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Automatic movement

Post by Joey »

When not wearing a watch with an automatic movement for a considerable time, is it best to just let the movement wind down and stop or pull out the crown to stop the movement. I notice that a lot of pictures posted have the crown pulled out and wondered if that was preferable and if so why. I'm sure most people here know the answer or have a preference.
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Kansas City Milkman
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Re: Automatic movement

Post by Kansas City Milkman »

Joey wrote:When not wearing a watch with an automatic movement for a considerable time, is it best to just let the movement wind down and stop or pull out the crown to stop the movement. I notice that a lot of pictures posted have the crown pulled out and wondered if that was preferable and if so why. I'm sure most people here know the answer or have a preference.
Good question Joey - it's not something I had considered but would like to know the answer too
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Re: Automatic movement

Post by downer »

I would not recommend storing watches with the crown out.

I think they are often shown in pictures because people use extended exposure times and want the seconds hand to be static.
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Re: Automatic movement

Post by Pegleg2001 »

Maybe the mainspring being stalled in its wound state alters its performance characteristics too? The engineer in me says it is probably better to let it deplete its stored energy.
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Re: Automatic movement

Post by Bahnstormer_vRS »

Pegleg2001 wrote:Maybe the mainspring being stalled in its wound state alters its performance characteristics too? The engineer in me says it is probably better to let it deplete its stored energy.
I'd agree with that; but then I'm no expert.

I'm sure an expert will be along shortly ................

PS> oops sorry; just seen that Downer had given his advice.
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Re: Automatic movement

Post by Cirrus »

Pegleg2001 wrote:Maybe the mainspring being stalled in its wound state alters its performance characteristics too? The engineer in me says it is probably better to let it deplete its stored energy.
I would also assume it better to let the mainspring rest under minimal tension rather than hold it for a long period in one stressed position, also having the crown out may allow the ingress of dust...
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Re: Automatic movement

Post by Kip »

Not a recommended procedure.

What downer said is correct about photos.

Allowing dust and moisture in are the prime concerns.
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Re: Automatic movement

Post by Joey »

Thanks for all your answers. All makes sense. I knew it was best if I didn't think about things too much. :thumbup:
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