FAQ
Discover the answers to some of the most common questions about our timepieces. If you need additional assistance, please visit our contact page.
What is an automatic watch?
An automatic watch is a type of mechanical watch that is powered by the natural movement of the wearer's wrist. Unlike traditional mechanical watches, which require manual winding, an automatic watch has a rotor that spins with the movement of the wrist and automatically winds the mainspring. The mainspring is a spiral torsion spring that provides the energy needed to power the watch. This type of watch is convenient for those who value timepiece accuracy and do not want the hassle of manual winding. Automatic watches have a classic design and are renowned for their intricate mechanical movements, making them a popular choice among watch enthusiasts who appreciate both style and practicality. Additionally, many automatic watches, including those from Pasqal, can be manual winding, providing the wearer with even more flexibility and control over their timepiece.
How does an automatic watch work?
An automatic watch is a type of mechanical watch that operates without the need for manual winding. Unlike traditional mechanical watches, which require manual winding of the mainspring to function, automatic watches use the movement of the wearer's wrist to wind the mainspring and power the watch.
The heart of an automatic watch is its rotor, a flat, weighted piece that rotates freely around its axis with the movement of the wrist. The rotor is attached to the mainspring and as the wrist moves, it winds the mainspring and stores energy. The stored energy is then used to power the watch, eliminating the need for manual winding.
Automatic watches have a delicate and intricate mechanical movement that is powered by the mainspring. The energy from the mainspring is transferred to the gear train, which drives the hands and other complications such as the calendar and stopwatch functions.
One of the benefits of an automatic watch is that it requires less maintenance than a traditional mechanical watch. As long as the watch is worn regularly, the rotor will spin and wind the mainspring, keeping the watch powered. Additionally, automatic watches are often designed with a power reserve indicator that shows how much energy is stored in the mainspring, allowing the wearer to monitor the performance of the watch and ensure it is functioning properly.
In conclusion, an automatic watch is a convenient and stylish choice for those who appreciate the intricate mechanics of a traditional mechanical watch, but with the added convenience of not needing manual winding. The movement of the wrist powers the watch, and the rotor winds the mainspring, keeping the watch powered and ready to go.
What is the accuracy and power reserve of an automatic watch?
The accuracy and power reserve of an automatic watch can vary greatly depending on the specific model and brand. Automatic watches are mechanical, meaning they are powered by the movement of the wearer's wrist, rather than by a battery. The accuracy of an automatic watch is largely determined by the quality of its movement and the accuracy of the balance wheel and escapement.
In general, automatic watches are less accurate than quartz watches, but their mechanical movements and classic design make them a popular choice for those who value style and tradition.
At Pasqal, one of our most popular automatic watches is the Wilhelm 42. This classic timepiece features a 42-hour power reserve, which means that it will continue to keep time for up to 42 hours after being fully wound. Additionally, the Wilhelm 42 is equipped with a high-precision movement and a self-winding mechanism, ensuring that it is both accurate and reliable. Whether you're looking for a stylish and practical timepiece or simply appreciate the classic elegance of a mechanical watch, the Wilhelm 42 is the perfect choice.
What is the difference between an automatic and a quartz watch?
An automatic watch and a quartz watch are two different types of timepieces that differ in their mechanisms of keeping time and powering the watch.
An automatic watch is a type of mechanical watch that is powered by the movement of the wearer's wrist. The energy generated by the movement of the wrist is used to wind the mainspring, which in turn powers the watch. The mechanical movement of an automatic watch is made up of intricate parts and gears that work together to keep time.
On the other hand, a quartz watch is powered by a battery that sends an electrical current to a quartz crystal. The electrical current causes the quartz crystal to vibrate at a very precise frequency, which is then used to regulate the timekeeping mechanism of the watch. Quartz watches are known for their high accuracy and low maintenance, as they do not require manual winding or frequent adjustments.
In summary, the main difference between an automatic and a quartz watch is the mechanism that powers the watch and regulates the timekeeping mechanism. Automatic watches are powered by the movement of the wrist and have a mechanical movement, while quartz watches are powered by a battery and have an electronic quartz movement.
What is the normal maintenance required for an automatic watch?
The normal maintenance required for an automatic watch depends on several factors, including the specific brand and model of the watch, the frequency of use, and the environment in which it is used. However, there are some general guidelines to follow to keep an automatic watch in good condition.
Here are some common maintenance tasks for automatic watches:
- Regular cleaning: Automatic watches should be cleaned regularly to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may accumulate on the movement or case.
- Lubrication: Automatic watches contain many moving parts that need to be lubricated to function properly. Lubrication should be performed by a professional watchmaker every 3-5 years, depending on the frequency of use.
- Accuracy adjustment: Automatic watches can lose accuracy over time due to changes in temperature, atmospheric pressure, and other environmental factors. The accuracy can be adjusted by a professional watchmaker.
- Battery replacement: If the watch has a battery-powered function, such as a chronograph or alarm, the battery should be replaced every 2-3 years.
- Winding: If the watch has been inactive for an extended period of time, it may need to be wound manually to get it started.
It is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance to ensure the longevity and proper functioning of the watch. Additionally, it is recommended to have an automatic watch serviced by a professional watchmaker every 3-5 years, or more frequently if it is used frequently or subjected to extreme conditions.
What does 5atm mean?
A 5ATM rating means that a watch is water-resistant to a depth of 50 meters (165 feet). This means that it is suitable for everyday use and can withstand splashes of water, rain, and even brief immersion in water. However, it is not suitable for activities such as swimming, diving, or water sports, as the pressure at deeper depths can be too much for the watch to withstand.
It's important to note that water-resistance ratings are not permanent and can change over time due to factors such as aging of the seals and gaskets, physical damage, and exposure to chemicals. Additionally, the water-resistance of a watch can be affected by factors such as temperature changes, pressure changes, and exposure to UV light. To maintain the water-resistance of a watch, it is recommended to have it tested and serviced regularly by a professional watchmaker.
In summary, a 5ATM rating indicates that a watch is suitable for everyday use and can withstand splashes of water and rain, but not for swimming or diving. It is important to regularly have the water-resistance tested and maintained to ensure it remains effective.