To wind a Swiss Legend watch, the method depends on whether it features an automatic (self-winding) or a quartz (battery-powered) movement.
Winding an Automatic Swiss Legend Watch
Automatic Swiss Legend watches are powered by the natural motion of your wrist. To initially start or power up an automatic watch that has stopped, you can use one of two methods:
1. Hand Winding via the Crown
This method provides an immediate power reserve to get the watch ticking.
- Access the Crown: If your Swiss Legend watch has a screw-down crown (a feature common on water-resistant watches), you'll need to unscrew it first by turning it counter-clockwise until it releases. For non-screw-down crowns, simply ensure it's pushed in fully to its normal operating position.
- Rotate Clockwise: With the crown in its normal operating position, gently rotate it clockwise a number of turns. You might hear a subtle clicking sound as the mainspring is wound. A typical automatic watch needs about 20-40 turns to build a sufficient power reserve.
- Stop Winding: Unlike manual-wind watches, you generally cannot over-wind an automatic watch through the crown, as it has a slipping clutch mechanism. However, stop once you feel slight resistance or after the recommended number of turns, and the watch starts running smoothly.
- Secure the Crown: If you have a screw-down crown, push it back in and screw it down clockwise to ensure water resistance.
2. Kinetic Winding (Swinging)
This method relies on the watch's rotor to wind the mainspring.
- Gentle Motion: Hold the watch firmly and gently swing it side to side for about 30 seconds. This motion will cause the internal rotor to spin, winding the mainspring.
- Observe Operation: The watch should begin to tick shortly after this motion.
- Regular Wear: Once started, wearing your automatic watch regularly will keep it wound by your daily movements.
Summary of Automatic Winding Steps:
| Method | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hand Winding | 1. Unscrew Crown (if applicable): Rotate counter-clockwise until free. 2. Rotate Clockwise: With the crown in its normal, pushed-in position, turn it clockwise for 20-40 turns. 3. Secure Crown: Push in and screw down (if applicable). |
Provides quick initial power. Stop when the watch begins running or after sufficient turns. Modern automatics have a clutch to prevent over-winding, but excessive force is unnecessary. For more on automatic movements, see this guide. |
| Kinetic Winding | 1. Gentle Swing: Hold the watch and swing it gently from side to side. 2. Duration: Continue for approximately 30 seconds. |
Relies on the watch's internal rotor. Ideal for kick-starting a stopped watch. Consistent daily wear keeps the watch powered by your natural movements. |
Setting a Quartz Swiss Legend Watch
Quartz Swiss Legend watches do not require winding. They are powered by a battery, which sends electrical impulses through a quartz crystal to regulate time.
To set a quartz watch:
- Pull Out the Crown: Gently pull the crown out to the setting position (usually one or two clicks, depending on if there's a date function).
- Adjust Time/Date: Turn the crown to move the hands to the correct time or adjust the date.
- Push In the Crown: Once the time and date are set, push the crown back in fully to its normal operating position to start the watch running again.
- Battery Replacement: If your quartz watch stops, it usually indicates that the battery needs to be replaced by a professional. For more information on quartz movements, you can read this article.
General Tips for Swiss Legend Watch Care
- Watch Winders: For automatic watches not worn daily, a watch winder can keep them wound and running, maintaining the lubrication and preventing the need to reset the time each time you wear them.
- Regular Servicing: Regardless of movement type, all watches benefit from periodic professional servicing to ensure longevity and accuracy. Consult your watch's manual for specific service recommendations.
