Why Is My Automatic Watch Losing Time? Common Causes and Solutions

Quick answer

If your automatic watch is losing time, the most common culprits are magnetization, impact, lack of winding, or a need for regulation or servicing. Start by checking if it's fully wound, test for magnetism, and if the problem persists, consult a professional watchmaker.

Automatic watches are marvels of mechanical engineering, but even the finest movements can start losing time. If you've noticed your watch running slow, you're not alone. Understanding the root causes can save you time, money, and frustration.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the typical reasons an automatic watch runs slow, how to diagnose them, and when to seek professional help. We'll also share maintenance tips to keep your timepiece accurate for years.

Common Causes of an Automatic Watch Losing Time

Several factors can cause your automatic watch to lose time. The most frequent include insufficient winding, magnetization, physical shock, and the natural need for regulation or servicing. Each has its own symptoms and solutions.

Insufficient winding is common if you don't wear the watch daily or have a low activity level. Magnetization can occur from everyday items like smartphones, laptops, or magnetic clasps. Physical shock from drops or impacts can disrupt the delicate balance wheel. Over time, the lubricants in the movement can also degrade, increasing friction and affecting accuracy.

• Check if the watch is fully wound by giving it 20-30 manual turns and observing if accuracy improves.
• Look for signs of magnetization by placing a compass near the watch; if the needle deflects, it may be magnetized.
• Keep a record of daily time loss to help diagnose the severity.

How to Fix Watch Accuracy at Home

Before heading to a watchmaker, there are a few safe steps you can try at home. First, ensure the watch is fully wound and worn for at least 8-10 hours to maintain power. If you have a watch winder, use it to keep the watch running when not worn.

If you suspect magnetization, a demagnetizer can often solve the problem. These inexpensive tools are available online and are safe for most automatic watches. However, if you're unsure, it's best to consult a professional.

For persistent inaccuracy, you can also try adjusting your wearing habits. Some positions (dial up, crown down) can affect rate; experiment to see if accuracy improves in a certain position overnight.

• Invest in a demagnetizer if you frequently expose your watch to magnetic fields.
• Consider a watch winder to keep the watch running when not worn.
• Monitor accuracy over a week using a timegrapher app or by comparing to a reliable time source.

When to Seek Professional Watch Regulation and Maintenance

If your watch continues to lose time after trying the above, it may need professional regulation. Watch regulation involves adjusting the balance wheel's effective length to speed up or slow down the watch. This precise task requires specialized tools and expertise.

Additionally, automatic watches should be serviced every 3-5 years to replace worn parts, clean the movement, and reapply lubricants. If your watch is due for service, a watchmaker can restore its accuracy and extend its lifespan.

When choosing a service provider, look for certified watchmakers with experience in your watch's brand and movement. For Baltimore Watch Company timepieces, contacting the brand directly ensures authentic parts and warranty preservation.

• If your watch loses more than 10-15 seconds per day, professional regulation is recommended.
• Always mention any drops or impacts when seeking service, as they may have caused internal damage.
• Ask for a quote before approving any service to avoid surprises.

Diagnosis Guide: Why Your Automatic Watch Loses Time

• Symptom: Watch runs slow but only when not worn regularly: Likely cause: Insufficient winding. Automatic watches need regular motion to stay powered. Action: Wind manually and wear daily or use a watch winder. If accuracy returns, no further action needed.
• Symptom: Watch runs slow after exposure to magnets: Likely cause: Magnetization of the balance spring. Action: Use a demagnetizer or seek professional demagnetization. If symptoms persist, consult a watchmaker.
• Symptom: Watch runs slow consistently despite proper winding: Likely cause: Need for regulation or internal wear requiring service. Action: Have the watch regulated by a professional. If over 3-5 years old, schedule a full service. Stop here and let an expert handle it.

Baltimore Watch Company Timepieces: Built for Reliability

• Steel Torsk GMT 39 - Black Meteorite: Its 39mm 316L stainless steel case houses the Miyota 9075 True GMT automatic movement, allowing precise tracking across time zones. This movement is known for reliability, but like all automatics, it can lose time if magnetized or due for service. Proper care ensures its accuracy.
• LEGACY BRONZE - ROYAL FUME: Only 75 timepieces in each color option will be made. Individually numbered: 01 - 75. Limited editions like this deserve meticulous care. Regular maintenance protects your investment and preserves its heirloom quality.

An automatic watch losing time can be a minor annoyance or a sign of a deeper issue. By understanding the common causes and following the diagnostic steps, you can often resolve the problem quickly. For persistent issues, professional regulation and maintenance are the best way to ensure your timepiece remains accurate for years to come.