Manny of the best watches in the world don’t run on batteries. In fact, one of the easiest ways to spot a fake Rolex is to see if it runs on batteries. In fact, the only Rolex model to ever use a battery was a special issue called an Oysterquartz. Every other type (from the famed submariner, to the Daytona) are self winding styles. This goes for almost all other high end watches, from Audemars Piguet to Brietling. But automatic watches without batteries are also made by some companies that don’t sell super expensive watches that run tens of thousands of dollars. And these watches are really well made, they just don’t cost the same as a nice car!
What Is An Automatic Watch?
An automatic watch doesn’t use a battery. However, it also does not require you to wind it every day like older non-battery watches. The automatic watches are wound by the subtle movement of your wrist. If they are placed on a table and left alone, they will then need to be manually wound. However, if the watch is kept on your wrist it should keep good time.
Do You Have To Self Wind A Watch Without Batteries?
You can self wind a watch without batteries, but as mentioned above, if you get a automatic watch it is not necessary. However, it’s important to make sure the watch has an easy dial for winding because you will sometimes need to wind it back up. For example, if you have had the watch in a drawer for a while and not worn it, and they you want to wear it for a job interview, wedding, or big party, it is going to need to be hand wound beforehand. You can’t just put it on your wrist and hope it will wind up right away. So, you are going to have to wind it up and set the time. Then it will be fine. It’s really a super simple process and is actually very cool. Most people have not owned automatic watches, so it also serves as a conversation piece. Guys love watches, so they love talking about horology, mechanics, and the different brands (Rolex, Seiko, Invicta) and women love jewelry and will be fascinated by the watch, and impressed that you are so knowledgeable about it.
Rolex: Almost All Automatics
Rolex Submariner is one of the true classics. It is a watch that will never go out of style. The watch works with all outfits, from jeans and a t-shirt, to a suit. It is a bit expensive, but look at it this way. You’re buying a watch that will last a lifetime. These are investments. Some people buy and sell classic Rolexes (can you say that about most brands?) They are popular all over the world, in Russia, the Middle East, Asia, South America, everywhere. As soon as someone sees that you are wearing a Rolex they immediately think that you have a really good sense of style, and are sophisticated.
The Rolex. A Classic.
This is more than just a watch, it’s an investment.
Seiko Automatic Dive Watch: Affordable No Battery Watch
Seiko makes really cool timepieces. They are a Japanese company that makes mid level watches. They are not as pricey as the super luxury watches out of Switzerland, but they are also not like the inexpensive Timex or Casio. You could consider them in the same category as the Swiss made Victorinox, though many die hard watch fans are especially impressed with the engineering and design of Seiko watches.
Omega Seamaster Automatic
Omega are another famous name in Swiss luxury watches, popular with everyone from JFK, James Bond, actors such as George Clooney, and Nicole Kidman. They tend to run in competition with Rolex. Most watch officiants who own luxury watches will have both a Rolex and an Omega. There are slight differences including weight in band, some differences in complexity of movement, but the consensus is that they are both supurbly made watches. It basically comes down to two things when choosing between an Omega and a Rolex: price and style. Some people really love the Seamaster style. It’s partially inspired by the classic Rolex diver, but it has developed into it’s own unique look that now is iconic in it’s own right.
Seiko Alpinist Automatic Winder (With Manual Winding + Hacking)
This is a great leather band automatic winder from Seiko.
You will also find that most of the high end swiss watches (IWC to Patek Philippe) all are automatic. It’s highly rare to find a high end Swiss watch (besides the Swiss Army brand) that uses batteries. In fact, one of the best ways to determine if you are buying a fake watch is the presence of a battery. That’s a sure fire sign that you are getting a knock off.
Victorinox(Swiss Army) Automatic Watches
40 mm wide case
Arabic Numbers
Brushed Stainless Steel
Leather Strap Swiss Army Automatic
42 MM Case Diameter