How do I wind a mechanical watch?

Turn the crown clockwise between your thumb and forefinger until you feel gentle resistance. Stop immediately once the tension increases to avoid damaging the mainspring. For automatic models, normal daily wear keeps the internal rotor moving and winds the spring automatically without manual turning.

Are these watches water resistant?

Most vintage mechanical timepieces lack modern rubber seals and screw-down components. Even models marked waterproof should be kept well away from water. Moisture easily bypasses older crystals and crowns, leading to rust on the delicate steel gears inside the movement.

How accurate are vintage mechanical watches?

Mechanical movements typically gain or lose a small number of seconds per day compared to modern quartz timepieces. Regular servicing by a watchmaker helps maintain optimal timing performance. Factors like temperature changes and physical positioning can also influence how steadily an older movement runs.