To get your Rolex watch running, especially if it has stopped, you need to manually wind it. Unlike electronic devices, a mechanical watch doesn't have an on/off switch; it operates as long as the mainspring is wound. "Turning it on" essentially means providing the power it needs to start ticking.
Before being worn for the first time, or if it has stopped, a Rolex watch must be wound manually in order to function correctly and precisely. This process ensures the watch has enough power reserve to begin operating accurately.
Steps to Manually Wind Your Rolex
Based on the standard procedure for Rolex watches, getting your watch started involves handling the winding crown on the side of the case.
Here are the specific steps:
- Unscrew the winding crown completely: Locate the crown on the side of your watch case. Depending on the model, this is typically on the right side. Gently turn the crown counter-clockwise until it is fully unscrewed from the case. It will pop out slightly to the winding position.
- Turn the crown several times clockwise: Once the crown is unscrewed and in the first position, turn it several times in a clockwise direction. The reference specifies that turning in the other direction has no effect for winding. Giving it about 20–30 turns is usually sufficient to build up enough power reserve to start the movement.
- Watch for movement: After a few turns, the second hand should begin to move, indicating that the watch is running.
- Screw the crown back down: Once wound, push the crown back in towards the case and screw it down tightly (clockwise) to ensure the watch's water resistance.
You can think of these steps as powering up the watch after it has run out of energy.
| Action | Result |
|---|---|
| Unscrew Crown (Counter-CW) | Crown Pops Out to Winding Position |
| Turn Crown (Clockwise) | Mainspring Winds, Watch Starts |
| Push & Screw Crown (CW) | Ensures Water Resistance |
After manually winding, wearing the watch will activate its Perpetual rotor, an automatic winding mechanism that keeps the mainspring wound using the natural motion of your wrist. However, manual winding is necessary to get it going if it's stopped or for watches that are not worn regularly.
For detailed instructions specific to your model, always consult the official guide provided with your Rolex watch or visit the official Rolex website.
