The most common reason a Movado watch stops working, especially if it's a Quartz model, is a dead battery. However, depending on whether your watch is Quartz or Automatic, there are several other factors that could cause it to cease functioning.
Common Reasons Your Movado Watch May Stop Working
Understanding the type of Movado watch you own is the first step in diagnosing why it might have stopped.
For Quartz Movado Watches
Quartz watches are powered by a battery and an oscillating crystal. They are known for their accuracy and low maintenance.
- Dead Battery: This is by far the most frequent culprit. A Movado Quartz watch relies on its battery to power the electronic circuit and motor. When the battery's charge depletes, the watch will simply stop.
- Solution: A battery replacement is the straightforward solution. This is often a simple repair if you have the right tools to safely open and close the watch case without causing damage. It's recommended to have this done by a qualified watchmaker to ensure the case is sealed properly afterward, maintaining its water resistance.
- Circuit Board Malfunction: Less common than a dead battery, but a faulty electronic circuit board can prevent the watch from keeping time even with a fresh battery. This typically requires professional repair or component replacement.
- Gear Train Obstruction or Wear: While rare, tiny dust particles, dried lubricants, or wear in the miniature gear train can cause the movement to jam.
- Impact Damage: A strong impact can dislodge internal components or damage the quartz crystal, disrupting the watch's function.
For Automatic or Mechanical Movado Watches
Automatic and mechanical watches are powered by kinetic energy (movement) or manual winding, not a battery. They are intricate machines with many tiny moving parts.
- Lack of Winding or Movement: Automatic watches are self-winding, meaning they rely on the natural motion of your wrist to power their mainspring. If the watch is not worn regularly (typically 8-10 hours a day) or placed on a watch winder, its power reserve will run out, and it will stop. Manual-wind mechanical watches need to be wound by hand daily.
- Solution: For an automatic watch, simply wearing it for an extended period or placing it on a watch winder should restart it. For a manual-wind watch, wind the crown until you feel resistance.
- Mainspring Issues: The mainspring is the primary power source. It can break, weaken over time, or become damaged, leading to the watch losing its ability to store power.
- Lubrication Problems: The tiny gears and pivots inside an automatic movement require precise lubrication. Over time, these oils can dry out, thicken, or spread, causing increased friction and eventually stopping the watch. This is why regular servicing is crucial for mechanical watches.
- Gear Train Obstruction or Wear: Similar to quartz watches, but more prevalent due to the sheer number of mechanical components, debris or worn gears can halt the movement.
- Impact or Water Damage: Mechanical movements are sensitive. A hard drop can bend pivots, dislodge parts, or cause the balance wheel to stop. Water intrusion can corrode components and seize the movement.
Troubleshooting Steps to Revive Your Movado
If your Movado watch has stopped, here are some practical steps you can take:
- Identify Your Watch Type: Look at the back of your watch or consult its manual. Does it say "Automatic" or does it mention "Quartz"? This will guide your troubleshooting.
- For Quartz Watches: Consider Battery Replacement: If you have a Quartz Movado, a dead battery is the most probable cause. You can seek a local watchmaker or jeweler for a quick battery change.
- For Automatic Watches: Wind It:
- Manual Winding: For many automatic watches, you can manually wind them by unscrewing the crown (if it's a screw-down crown) and turning it clockwise for about 30-40 rotations.
- Wear It: Wear the watch consistently for a full day to allow the rotor to wind the mainspring.
- Inspect for Visible Damage: Check for any signs of physical impact, a bent crown, or moisture under the crystal.
- Listen Carefully: Hold the watch to your ear. Do you hear a faint ticking sound? If not, it suggests a complete stoppage.
- Check the Crown Position: Ensure the crown is pushed all the way in. If it's pulled out to set the time, the watch will not run.
When to Seek Professional Watch Repair
While some issues like a dead battery or lack of winding are simple fixes, others require the expertise of a professional watchmaker.
| Symptom | Implication |
|---|---|
| Watch stops after new battery | Indicates a deeper electronic or mechanical issue in a quartz watch. |
| Automatic watch won't start after winding/wearing | Suggests a problem with the mainspring, gear train, or balance wheel. |
| Visible damage (e.g., bent crown, cracked crystal) | Requires professional assessment for internal damage and proper sealing. |
| Moisture under the crystal | Immediate professional attention is needed to prevent corrosion and further damage. |
| Intermittent stopping and starting | Could indicate loose components, friction, or lubrication issues. |
| Unusual noises (grinding, rattling) | Points to significant internal damage or wear. |
A professional watchmaker can accurately diagnose the problem, whether it's a simple battery replacement, a full movement service, or a repair of specific components, ensuring your Movado watch continues to function beautifully for years to come.
