Winding a IWC Watch

Winding a IWC Watch

Owning an IWC watch is a testament to Swiss precision, aviation heritage, and innovative craftsmanship. Whether it’s a manually wound Portugieser, an automatic Pilot’s Watch, or an Ingenieur built for endurance, each IWC timepiece is designed for exceptional performance. To keep your watch running smoothly and maintaining its accuracy, proper winding is essential. Understanding the correct winding process ensures your IWC remains reliable - whether on the wrist of a world traveler, a professional pilot, or a watch enthusiast who values both tradition and technology.

Do you have a manual or an automatic IWC?

Before winding your IWC watch, determine whether it is a manual-wind or self-winding (automatic) model. Manual-wind watches require regular winding, while automatic watches utilize wrist movement or a watch winder for power.

How to manually wind an IWC watch

  1. Remove the watch: Take the watch off your wrist to prevent unnecessary pressure on the crown.
  2. Locate the crown: The winding crown is typically found at the 3 o’clock position.
  3. Turn the crown: Rotate it clockwise slowly and steadily. Most IWC watches require 20-30 turns to be fully wound.
  4. Feel for resistance: Stop winding when you feel resistance to avoid over-winding.
  5. Push the crown back: If your watch has a screw-down crown, ensure it is securely tightened to maintain water resistance.

Winding an automatic IWC Watch

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Automatic IWC watches self-wind through wrist movement but may need manual winding if unused for a prolonged period.

  1. Turn the crown: Rotate it 20-30 times clockwise to give the movement an initial charge.
  2. Wear the watch regularly: Daily use ensures optimal performance by maintaining the power reserve.
  3. Use a watch winder: If you don’t wear your watch daily, a watch winder helps maintain accuracy and prevents the movement’s lubricants from drying out.

Recommended watch winder settings for IWC watches

Most IWC automatic watches require 650 to 800 turns per day (TPD) in a bi-directional setting. Ensure your watch winder is set accordingly to keep your timepiece running smoothly.

Keep your IWC in perfect condition

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Winding a IWC watch correctly ensures its longevity and precision. Whether it’s manual or automatic, following proper winding techniques helps maintain the mechanical integrity of your watch. If in doubt, consult your IWC manual or a professional watchmaker to keep your timepiece in perfect condition.

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