Rolex, a name tied to luxury and precision, is a brand that has captivated watch enthusiasts for over a century. As a proud owner of a Rolex timepiece, it’s essential to understand how to wind your watch correctly to ensure its longevity and maintain its accuracy. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll guide you through the process of winding an automatic and manual Rolex, optimizing your watch’s performance, and preserving its value.
Understanding Your Rolex Movement
Before diving into the winding process, it’s important to understand the movement that powers your Rolex. Rolex watches are equipped with either an automatic (self-winding) or manual (hand-winding) movement. Automatic Rolex watches rely on the natural motion of your wrist to wind the mainspring, while manual Rolex watches require manual winding to keep the watch running.
Winding an Automatic Rolex
Automatic Rolex watches, such as those in the Oyster Professional and Oyster Perpetual line, are designed to wind themselves through everyday wear. However, if your watch has stopped due to not being worn for a period of time or you’ve just received a new timepiece, you’ll need to give it an initial wind. Here’s how to wind an automatic Rolex:
Step 1: Unscrew the Crown
To begin, locate the crown on the side of your watch. Gently unscrew it counterclockwise until it pops out to the first position.
Step 2: Wind the Watch
With the crown in the first position, gently turn it clockwise approximately 30-40 times. This will give your watch enough power to start running.
Step 3: Set the Time and Date
If your watch features a date function, pull the crown out to the second position and turn it clockwise to set the date. To set the time, pull the crown out to the third position and turn it until the desired time is displayed.
Step 4: Secure the Crown
Once you’ve set the time and date, gently push the crown back in and screw it clockwise until it’s securely in place.
Winding a Manual Rolex
For manual Rolex watches, like those that fall under the vintage models of Rolex Cellini and Oyster Date, regular winding is needed to keep the watch running. The steps are similar to those for an automatic Rolex, Here’s how to wind a manual Rolex:
Step 1: Unscrew the Crown
Similar to an automatic Rolex, locate the crown and gently unscrew it counterclockwise until it pops out to the first position.
Step 2: Wind the Watch
Turn the crown clockwise until you feel resistance. This typically takes around 20-30 turns. Avoid over-winding, as this can damage the movement.
Step 3: Set the Time
Pull the crown out to the second position and turn it until the desired time is displayed.
Step 4: Secure the Crown
Gently push the crown back in and screw it clockwise until it’s securely in place. Ensure it is screwed back down against the case to prevent water or dust from entering.
Tips for Proper Rolex Maintenance
To ensure your Rolex watch remains in optimal condition, follow these maintenance tips:
Wind Your Watch Regularly:
For manual Rolex watches, wind them daily to maintain accurate timekeeping. For automatic Rolex watches, wear them regularly or invest in a watch winder to keep them running smoothly.
Clean Your Watch:
Gently clean your Rolex with a soft cloth and warm water to remove dirt and grime. Avoid using chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the watch’s finish.
Service Your Watch:
Rolex recommends servicing your watch every 5-10 years, depending on the model and usage. Regular servicing by a professional ensures your watch remains in peak condition and maintains its value.
Store Your Watch Properly:
When not in use, store your Rolex in a clean, cool, and dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. This is to prevent dirt and dust from settling on the watch which can give it a grimy appearance. We recommend keeping them in a watch box or case to protect your timepieces.
Do you want to know more about luxury watches?
Different models may have varying functions and directions for caring for the timepiece. Therefore, when in doubt, it is best to refer to your Rolex model’s user manual or contact a certified Rolex dealer.
Winding your Rolex watch is a simple yet essential process that ensures your timepiece remains accurate and reliable. By following this guide and practising proper maintenance, you’ll enjoy your Rolex for years to come and preserve its value as a cherished investment.
If you want to know more about Rolex, or any other luxury watch brands, feel free to send an enquiry or book an appointment and we will get back to you soon!
We also have brand-new and pre-owned watches in store for you to browse through.