There's nothing more frustrating than glancing at your wrist only to find your mechanical watch has stopped. Before you panic, know that most stoppages have simple explanations—and often even simpler solutions. Let's troubleshoot the most common culprits and get your timepiece ticking again.
1. Power Reserve Exhausted
The Obvious First Check
• Automatic watches: Needs regular wrist movement (or winding)
• Manual winds: Requires daily winding (typically 30-40 turns)
Quick Fix:
-
For automatics: Gently shake horizontally for 30 seconds
-
For manuals: Wind crown clockwise until slight resistance
Prevention Tip: Consider a watch winder if you rotate timepieces
2. Magnetization (The Silent Killer)
Telltale Signs:
-
Runs extremely fast before stopping
-
Erratic second hand movement
Test: Hold near a compass—if needle moves, it's magnetized
Solution:
✔ Professional demagnetization (takes 10 seconds)
✔ Some watches feature anti-magnetic protection
3. Impact Damage
How It Happens:
-
Dropping on hard surfaces
-
Hitting against door frames
Symptoms:
-
Complete stoppage
-
Uneven "ticking" sound
Action Required:
❗ Immediate servicing (likely balance staff or gear damage)
4. Dirt & Lubrication Issues
Progressive Warning Signs:
-
Gradual timekeeping inaccuracy
-
Intermittent stopping
-
Final death
Solution:
-
Full movement service every 3-5 years
-
For older watches: Avoid sudden temperature changes
5. Water Infiltration
Even If "Water Resistant"
-
Gaskets degrade over time
-
Steam from showers penetrates
Emergency Steps:
-
Remove crown immediately
-
Place in dry rice (not silica gel—too slow)
-
Get professional help within 48 hours
6. Simple User Errors
Overlooked Possibilities:
-
Pulled crown stuck in setting position
-
Time and date adjusted at midnight (9pm-3am)
-
Power reserve indicator misread
When to Seek Professional Help
Seek a watchmaker if:
-
Winding feels "gritty"
-
You hear loose parts rattling
-
Stoppage follows impact
-
Quick fixes don't resolve
Prevention Checklist
✓ Wind automatics before wearing after long storage
✓ Service every 3-5 years (like Wishdoit watches maintenance schedule)
✓ Avoid extreme temperatures
✓ Keep away from strong magnets
Remember: A stopped watch is usually crying for attention—not retirement. With proper care, quality mechanical watches can run for generations.
Has your watch ever stopped unexpectedly? Share your story below! ⌚
You'll also like
What Is a GMT Watch? The Complete Guide to Dual-Time Zone Timepieces
Watch Time Adjustment Taboo: Why You Should Never Change the Date Between 9 PM and 3 AM