Watch details
What does “Manual Wind” mean?
Mechanical movement wound by the crown.
Also written as: Hand-wound
Manual Wind, explained
A manual-wind, or hand-wound, watch has a mechanical movement that is wound by turning the crown, with no automatic rotor. It needs winding regularly, often daily, to keep running. Without a rotor, manual movements can be thinner and show more of the movement through a display case back.
Many collectors enjoy the ritual of winding and the slim cases that manual movements allow. Classic examples include the Omega Speedmaster Professional and vintage Rolex Daytonas. When buying, check that the crown winds smoothly and that the watch runs for its stated power reserve after a full wind. When a manual watch is fully wound, the crown stops turning; forcing it further can damage the mainspring or winding parts, so stop at the first firm resistance.
Example: 'Manual wind, winds smoothly, runs its full power reserve.'
Related terms
Bezel
The ring around the dial; fixed or rotating.
Ceramic
Scratch-resistant bezel material on modern sports models.
Pre-Ceramic
Sports models made before the switch to ceramic bezels.
Crystal
The clear cover over the dial. Sapphire is modern; acrylic/hesalite on vintage.
Cyclops
Magnifier over the date window.
Crown
The winding/setting knob; screw-down crowns seal the case.
Lugs
Where the bracelet attaches; lug-to-lug length drives how it wears.
Case Back
The rear cover; exhibition backs show the movement.
Soda glossary