How do I wind an automatic watch?

An automatic watch winds itself through the movement of your wrist during daily wear via an internal rotor. If the watch has stopped completely, give the crown a few manual turns to jumpstart the movement before wearing. Unlike manual wind watches, you cannot overwind an automatic timepiece because a slipping bridle allows the mainspring to release once fully wound.

Are these watches water resistant?

Mid-century dress watches were generally not built to modern water resistance standards and lack screw-down crowns and modern gasket seals. Splashes or rain can compromise the vintage movement and dial. It is best to keep these timepieces away from water, swimming pools, and humid environments entirely to preserve the internal components and leather strap.

How do I date a vintage watch?

Dating a vintage watch involves examining serial numbers stamped on the movement or inside the case back against manufacturer records. Reference numbers and hallmark stamps for precious metals also provide specific production eras. Documentation such as original papers or boxes supplied with the watch often corroborate the production year accurately.

What is a bumper movement?

A bumper movement is an early automatic winding mechanism utilised in the nineteen fifties where the oscillating weight swings through a limited arc. You can feel a gentle thud or bump on your wrist as the weight hits the internal springs. This technology represents a transitional phase between manual wind watches and fully rotating modern automatic rotors.