The Truth About the Ageing of Mechanical Watches: Do They Speed Up?

When it comes to the maintenance of mechanical watches, one common concern is whether they slow down or speed up as they age. This article delves into the truth behind this concern and explores the factors that can impact the accuracy of a mechanical watch over time.

Introduction to Mechanical Watches

Mechanical watches are renowned for their intricate craftsmanship and longevity, providing an intrinsic connection between tradition and the passing of time. Unlike their quartz counterparts, which rely on a quartz crystal to keep time, mechanical watches depend on a series of gears, springs, and escapements, making them the epitome of craftsmanship and precision.

Understanding the Ageing Process

It is a common misconception that mechanical watches slow down over time. In reality, the aging process can lead to various changes that might affect the watch's performance. One such change is the increased gap between components, which can cause the watch to speed up.

Factors Affecting Watch Accuracy Over Time

Several factors contribute to the changes in a mechanical watch's performance as it ages:

Mechanical Wear: Over time, the wear and tear on the components can cause slight increases in clearance between the moving parts. This can lead to a slight increase in speed, as there is less resistance to the movement of the gears, causing the watch to run faster rather than slower.Detention: The positioning and alignment of the components can shift with time, leading to what is known as "detention." This timing error can cause the watch to lose or gain time over a period.Component Alignment: As mechanical components age and wear, they can no longer maintain the precise alignment needed for optimal performance. This misalignment can affect the watch's accuracy and, in some cases, cause it to speed up.

What to Expect as a Mechanical Watch Ages

It is not uncommon for a mechanical watch to experience subtle changes in its performance over time. These changes, although generally not significant enough to cause major issues, can be noticeable to the keen eye or experienced horologist. Here's what you might expect:

Slightly Faster Running: As mentioned, mechanical wear can cause the watch to run faster over time, often by a few seconds per day. This increase in speed is usually gradual and might be imperceptible to the casual observer.Increased Detention: The watch's timekeeping accuracy may become more variable, with days showing a gain and others showing a loss. This is due to the cumulative effect of wear and eventual misalignment of components.

Prevention and Maintenance

To maintain the accuracy and longevity of a mechanical watch, regular maintenance is crucial. Here are some steps you can take:

Professional Cleaning and Servicing: Have your watch serviced by a qualified watchmaker or jeweler at regular intervals. This will help to keep all the components clean and properly aligned, reducing the risk of wear and misalignment.Check for Loose Parts: Ensure that all parts are secure and snug. Any looseness can contribute to increased clearance and timing errors.Regular Oil Replacement: Lubrication is essential for smooth operation. Regular oil replacement can help to maintain the watch's performance and prolong its life.

Conclusion

While it is true that a mechanical watch can experience subtle changes in its performance over time due to mechanical wear and misalignment, it is not accurate to say that they consistently slow down or speed up as they age. More commonly, a mechanical watch may show slight increases in speed, which is a result of wear on the components. Regular professional servicing and maintenance can help to minimize these effects and ensure that your watch continues to function at its best for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some additional questions and answers related to the topic:

Do mechanical watches need to be wound daily?

Yes, a mechanical watch needs to be wound daily to maintain its power reserve and prevent the mainspring from losing tension. A well-maintained watch with a good power reserve can typically run for several days without winding.

How often should a mechanical watch be serviced?

A mechanical watch should be serviced every 4 to 5 years by a professional watchmaker. Regular servicing helps to clean the internal components and ensure they are properly lubricated and aligned, maintaining optimal performance.

Can I speed up a slow mechanical watch?

If a mechanical watch is running slow, you should consult a professional watchmaker. Adjustments to the escapement or balance wheel may be necessary to correct the timing.

Additional Resources

For in-depth information on watch care and maintenance, consider exploring the following resources:

Watchmaker's Websites and Online Forums: Websites like Guichard Parajud offer valuable information on watch maintenance and repair.Watchmaking Tutorials: YouTube channels dedicated to watchmaking, such as IWC Chronography, can provide a wealth of knowledge on watch care and maintenance.Books: Books like "Precision Measurement Engineering" by Joel S. F. Yen can offer in-depth insights into the mechanics of mechanical watches.