What Happens If an Automatic Watch Dies? How to Restart It

When an automatic watch “dies,” it usually means its mainspring has run out of stored energy, so the hands stop moving and the watch no longer keeps time until it is wound again. Unlike a battery-powered watch, a typical automatic mechanical watch does not need a battery replacement when it stops; it needs energy restored to its movement.

An automatic watch winds itself through the movement of your wrist, but it can stop if you leave it off long enough or wear it without enough movement to replenish its reserve. The time it can run without being worn varies by movement and by how fully it was wound beforehand, so a watch that stops after a period on your dresser is not necessarily broken.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating why does an automatic watch run out of energy.

If your watch supports manual winding, turn the crown in its winding position according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then set the correct time and date before wearing it. You can also gently move the watch to start its rotor, but avoid shaking it vigorously; if it will not start or repeatedly stops after winding, have a qualified watchmaker inspect it.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating how do you get it running again.

When resetting a stopped watch with a date display, follow its instructions for changing the date, since adjusting it during the movement’s date-change period can damage some mechanisms. Our Automatic Mechanical Watch for Men with Date Display and 100M Water Resistance combines a date display with a 100M water-resistance rating; keep the crown secured before exposing a watch to water, and do not operate it underwater.