What does seventeen jewels mean?

A seventeen jewels movement contains seventeen bearing stones that reduce friction in the gear train. This was the standard count for a fully functional, jewelled mechanical watch. These tiny synthetic rubies help the metal pivots rotate smoothly, improving both the longevity and the timekeeping accuracy of the movement.

How do I wind a vintage watch?

You wind a manual watch by gently turning the crown clockwise between your thumb and forefinger. Stop immediately when you feel resistance to avoid snapping the mainspring. Most vintage pieces require daily winding if you wear them regularly, as their power reserve typically lasts around twenty-four to forty hours.

Are these watches waterproof?

Vintage wristwatches from the 1930s to the 1960s are generally not waterproof by modern standards. Gaskets and seals degrade over decades and lose their integrity. It is best to keep these pieces away from water, heavy rain, and moisture to protect the delicate movement and paper or metal dials inside.

How do I date a vintage watch?

You can date a watch by examining its overall design style, dial typography, case hallmarks, and movement serial numbers. Art Deco styles typically point to the 1930s. Mid-century modern aesthetics, specific shock-absorber systems like Diashock, and hallmarks for 9ct gold provide further chronological clues regarding the year of production.