What happens if I stop wearing my automatic watch for several days?

Have you just purchased an automatic watch or are you considering buying one, and you're wondering what happens if you leave it unused for several days? Don't worry: Team Charlie Paris will explain everything you need to know to understand how your timepiece works and how to take care of it.

An automatic watch that lives to the rhythm of your movements

Unlike quartz watches , which run on batteries, an automatic watch draws its power directly from your movements. Inside, a mainspring housed in the barrel tightens with each of your movements and gradually releases its energy to make the balance wheel beat and drive the hands.

The autonomy of an automatic watch is not infinite. Most models offer a power reserve of between 38 and 60 hours. If you do not wear your watch during this time, the spring will completely relax and the movement will stop. This is perfectly normal and does not pose any risk to the mechanism.

The stopping of the watch does not in any way reflect a malfunction: it is simply the mechanism taking a breath, like a breath necessary for the precision and longevity of the movement.

How to bring your automatic watch back to life

Restarting an automatic watch after it has stopped is a quick and easy process. To bring your timepiece back to life:

• Wind the crown slightly: a few turns are enough to tighten the mainspring.
  
• Replace the watch on your wrist: your daily movements will take over to keep the mechanism active.
  
• Adjust the time and date if necessary, and your watch will start running accurately again.
  

For those who alternate between multiple automatic watches, a self-winder can be a practical solution. This small device keeps the movement running even when your watch is resting in its case, thus avoiding prolonged downtime.

Is it bad for your watch if it stops?

Many people worry about their automatic watch stopping. The good news: no damage is caused. When the mechanism stops working, the components simply come to rest. No mechanical hazards arise, and the movement is unaffected.

The only slight drawback is having to reset the time and date the next time you use it. For mechanical watch enthusiasts, this ritual is part of the pleasure and connection you have with your timepiece.
Charlie Paris automatic watches

At Charlie Paris, our automatic watches are designed to adapt to your daily life with elegance, precision, and robustness. Whether you wear them every day or occasionally, they remain reliable and efficient.

The Initial Collection

The Initial collection is distinguished by its elegance and versatility. It offers several variations: Day/Night , Open Heart , Skeleton , Calendar and the Slim for those who prefer a thinner and more discreet diameter. Powered by a Japanese automatic movement, it offers approximately 40 hours of power reserve. Its 316L steel case and sapphire crystal guarantee solidity and durability, while its refined design allows it to be worn every day in style.

The Concordia Collection

The Concordia Automatic is a diver's watch designed for adventure and exploration. Water-resistant to 300 meters, it combines technical performance with a sleek, contemporary aesthetic. Its 316L steel case and anti-reflective sapphire crystal ensure optimal resistance even in the most demanding conditions. Powered by a reliable automatic movement, it is built to last and support all your activities, both underwater and in everyday life.

Interchangeable straps to suit your style

All our automatic watches are equipped with the Pompes Flash system, which allows you to easily change straps without tools. You can switch in just a few seconds from an elegant leather strap for professional life, to a rubber strap for sports activities, or to a nylon strap for a more casual style.

This system makes each watch versatile and customizable, allowing you to adapt your timepiece to your schedule, your desires, and your daily activities. Elegance, comfort, and practicality combine to make your Charlie Paris watch a faithful daily companion.

Whether you choose the understated elegance of an Initial or the extreme robustness of a Concordia , all our automatic watches are assembled in Paris and designed to last. They remain your faithful allies, whether they beat every day on your wrist or wait a few days in their case, ready to come back to life at the slightest touch.