Automatic Winding
Automatic Winding is a key feature in mechanical watches that allows the watch to wind itself using the natural movement of the wearer's wrist, eliminating the need for manual winding. When looking at resumes in the watchmaking industry, this term indicates experience with self-winding mechanisms, which are complex systems of gears and rotors. It's similar to how a pedometer counts steps, but instead uses motion to keep the watch running. Other common names for this include "self-winding" or "perpetual winding." Understanding this term is crucial when hiring watchmakers, as it represents a fundamental skill in luxury watch manufacturing and repair.
Examples in Resumes
Serviced and repaired Automatic Winding mechanisms in luxury timepieces
Specialized in troubleshooting Self-Winding movement complications
Performed maintenance on Perpetual Winding systems for high-end watch brands
Typical job title: "Watchmakers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Watchmakers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you diagnose and fix an automatic winding system that's not maintaining proper power reserve?
Expected Answer: A senior watchmaker should explain the inspection process of the rotor, mainspring, and winding mechanism, discussing common issues like worn bearings, insufficient lubrication, or damaged reversing wheels.
Q: What quality control procedures would you implement for automatic winding mechanisms?
Expected Answer: Should describe testing procedures including timing, power reserve measurement, and winding efficiency checks, as well as documentation and standards for different watch grades.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Explain the basic components of an automatic winding system.
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the rotor, reversing wheels, mainspring, and how they work together to wind the watch through motion.
Q: What are common maintenance requirements for automatic winding mechanisms?
Expected Answer: Should discuss regular cleaning, lubrication points, inspection intervals, and signs of wear to watch for.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the difference between automatic and manual winding?
Expected Answer: Should explain that automatic winding uses wrist movement to wind the watch, while manual requires daily hand-winding by the user.
Q: What basic tools are needed to service an automatic winding mechanism?
Expected Answer: Should list essential watchmaking tools like tweezers, screwdrivers, cleaning equipment, and timing machine.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic watch movement cleaning
- Simple repairs and maintenance
- Understanding of automatic mechanisms
- Basic tool handling and safety
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex movement servicing
- Diagnosis of winding issues
- Parts replacement and adjustment
- Quality testing procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced troubleshooting
- Custom modifications
- Training and supervision
- Complex restoration work
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with mechanical watches
- Lack of proper watchmaking certification
- Unable to use basic watchmaking tools
- No understanding of watch movement parts
