Why Every Man Should Own an Automatic Watch

Automatic watches, understood by “those who know” to be a fantastic blend of craftsmanship and style, don’t get as much spotlight as they deserve in today’s world, likely because digital watches and smartwatches seem more at the cutting edge.

That’s a shame because automatic watches offer something a little more personal, authentic, and well-designed. The intrinsic components and functioning of an automatic watch is quite impressive (to put it mildly) especially when you realize there’s zero need for batteries.

Moreover, because of their sturdy appeal and often timeless design, an automatic watch can last for decades or more, without the need to wind the components outside of general servicing.

So, in this post, we think it’s important to explain and consider why every man should own an automatic watch. Let’s get started:

How does an automatic watch function?

While to us non-craftsmen an automatic watch can seem stunningly complex, it actually works on a pretty simple principle - your movement powers it. Inside the watch, there’s a rotor that spins as your wrist moves, winding the mainspring, which stores energy. This energy is then released in a controlled way to move the watch hands and keep accurate time. Of course, it’s easy to say the principle is simple and explain it in simple terms, but this takes a great deal of know-how to achieve within such a small frame.

So in other words, the watch is "automatic" because it winds itself when worn, meaning as long as you’re active and wearing it on a relatively frequent basis, it keeps ticking without any extra effort. Unlike quartz watches that need batteries, or smartwatches that you have to charge every night, automatic watches keep going just by being on your wrist. It’s ingenious and highly worthwhile if you’re someone who likes to wear their watch day in and day out.

Why is it timeless and appropriate for wear?

While the functions we’ve described above are quite impressive, automatic watches don’t sell themselves as being super, obnoxiously cutting edge, which is refreshing in today’s market. For that reason, their designs are classic, and they’ve been around for centuries in more or less the same form except with various brands throwing their own spin on it.

That means an automatic watch can function similarly to other watches you have but without worrying too much about their daily upkeep. Every man should have an easy-to-wear watch that matches with many of his outfits, which is why we recommend this type as the best all-rounder.

What are the major brands?

Rolex, for example, is basically known for automatic watches. Their models, like the Submariner, have been the gold standard for decades and still attract buyers from around the world with a healthy trading market dedicated to their relevance. Omega is another big name, known for their Speedmaster (believe it or not, this was the first watch on the moon).

But if you want a high-end without such a price (or even a lack of availability given how utterly in demand those watches are), Seiko has some impressive automatic watches that are more affordable but still look good. This great guide to blue dial watches can help you consider which watch is best for you and what style might better reflect your personality. You can take the advice there or use it as a means of understanding more about the market and its options.

Do automatic watches require any maintenance at all?

All watches require some form of maintenance, even digital watches that have no complex internal physical mechanisms that move require software updates. But what about automatic watches? Well, yes, but not in a way that’ll stress you out. Automatic watches don’t need daily or weekly attention, but they do require some care every few years. Because they’re powered by tiny gears and springs, it’s a good idea to get them serviced by a professional every 3-5 years just to make sure everything is operating as it should. But in terms of replacing batteries and constant tuning, that’s unlikely to be an issue.

That said, because automatic watches are designed to last decades, this occasional maintenance is something you probably won’t notice. If you’re inherited an old watch that might require a little restoration, that’s perfectly possible too. Just because an automatic watch has unique internal components doesn’t mean they can’t be replaced at any good watch store, nor does this diminish their value.

How long can automatic watches last?

You might wonder how long a watch like this can last, given the unique and impressive delicate components inside. Well, to put it bluntly, and with proper care, an automatic watch can easily outlive you. Some watches have been passed down through generations and still keep perfect time (with a little adjustment here and there). It’s hard to say that about a digital watch that could be likely to be obsolete within at least ten years.

Moreover, automatic watches age well too. With the aforementioned restoration watches that are decades old and unloved in harsh conditions have found new life, and that’s a great thing. So if you’re looking for an investment to last, you might go for the best watch you can possibly afford and let it stay with you over the years.

When is it appropriate to wear an automatic watch?

At any time of your choosing. They can be worn with almost anything. In formal settings, an automatic watch can be classic and smart without screaming for attention. Even when you’re just chilling on vacation, the watch will still look good, and maybe even add a little edge to your outfit.

If you like dive watches or dress watches, you’ve likely seen an automatic before. They’re not completely distinguishable on the surface, it takes a trained eye and brand familiarity to truly know the automatic, so you don’t have to feel like wearing one is some avant-garde statement, but it is a refined one.

With this advice, we hope you can feel more confident as you consider your automatic watch options.

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