Tick tock! Time is running low to stage your perfect proposal, and you need to make some quick decisions. You settled on the idea of a trendy engagement watch, but which should you choose: an automatic or mechanical watch? We’re here to explain the differences, so you can pick the perfect piece for your one-of-a-kind partner.

To put it simply, “mechanical” and “automatic” refer to a watch’s “movement” (aka how the watch works). The term “mechanical” describes all watches that don’t require a battery. Similarly, automatic watches are types of mechanical timepieces with some key distinctions.

How They Work

Mechanical: Think of these as manual watches that you wind by hand. Mechanical “movement” has reportedly existed for centuries, giving such watches the potential to last for a lifetime. What happens when you wind your piece to reset the time? Turning a small knob triggers gears and springs to start moving the hands of the watch. You should expect to wind mechanical watches daily.

Automatic: These pieces were introduced in the 20th century and offer a self-winding element. That means movement from your arm throughout the day will keep the watch wound. But if you don’t wear your watch for a while, the lack of movement could eventually impact the lifespan of your piece.

Parts

Mechanical: The following parts can be found in a mechanical watch.

❖Crown: The little knob on the side of a watch that allows you to set the time and control other functions.

❖Mainspring: A coil-shaped spring that acts as the primary power source for the watch.

❖Gear Train: A group of small, connected gears that transfers energy from the mainspring to the escapement, which we’ll explain next.

❖Escapement/Escape Wheel: This specific piece within the gear train transports equally distributed amounts of energy from the mainspring to the balance wheel.

❖Balance Wheel: This piece is referred to as the core of mechanical movement because it accepts the energy that a watch needs to operate. It also “beats” multiple times each second.

Automatic: This type of watch includes the same parts as a mechanical watch, but it also features a rotor, typically a small metal weight that easily moves with your wrist. This little piece is connected to gears that help with the self-winding aspect of the watch.

Appearance

With a mechanical watch, you can likely view the internal gears in action through the back panel. But you likely won’t be able to see this in automatic watches due to rotor placement. Automatic watches might also look slightly thicker to accommodate the rotor and additional related gears.

Accuracy

Since the rotor regularly winds automatic watches, these pieces tend to keep more precise time.

Cost

Automatic watches tend to be a bit more expensive due to their additional components and processes.

All mechanical watches, including automatic, are often appreciated for their excellent craftsmanship. So, you really can’t go wrong with either version. But if you need some help deciding, consider your budget and partner’s tastes. If they don’t want the hassle of winding, you have your answer!

Have a question? We can help!

Gage Diamonds is Chicago's premier jewelry showroom and online retailer of engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewelry. We offer a selection of men’s and women’s watches and jewelry, from rings to bracelets.

We’re committed to helping you find the ring of your dreams. For inspiration, browse our website or set up an appointment with a member of our trusted staff at our in-person showroom.

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