The Complete Guide To Properly Winding Your Megir Automatic Watch For Optimal Performance

A well-maintained automatic watch doesn’t just keep accurate time—it reflects care, precision, and respect for craftsmanship. The Megir automatic watch, known for its elegant design and reliable mechanics, operates without batteries, powered instead by the natural motion of your wrist or manual winding. However, like any mechanical device, it requires proper handling to perform at its best. One of the most misunderstood aspects of owning an automatic watch is winding—how much, how often, and when. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to wind your Megir automatic watch correctly, preserve its internal mechanisms, and ensure long-term accuracy.

Understanding How Automatic Watches Work

Unlike quartz watches that rely on a battery, automatic watches use a mainspring as their power source. As you move your wrist, a rotor inside the watch rotates, transferring energy to wind the spring automatically. When the spring is fully wound, it gradually releases energy to power the movement. However, if the watch isn’t worn for more than 24–48 hours, the spring unwinds and the watch stops.

Manual winding re-engages the mainspring when the watch has stopped or needs a power boost. While Megir watches are built to withstand regular winding, improper technique—overwinding, jerky motions, or using force—can strain the movement. Understanding the balance between sufficient winding and mechanical safety is key.

Tip: Never attempt to wind your Megir watch while it's on your wrist—hold it securely in your hand to prevent stress on the crown.

Step-by-Step Guide to Properly Winding Your Megir Watch

1. Remove the watch from your wrist. Hold it firmly in your non-dominant hand with the crown facing up.
2. Pull out the crown gently to the first position (neutral). Most Megir automatics require winding with the crown in the neutral position—not pulled out to set time.
3. Turn the crown clockwise slowly and steadily. Use your thumb and index finger to rotate it in smooth, full turns. Avoid rapid cranking.
4. Continue for 20–30 rotations. This is typically enough to initiate the movement. If the watch has been idle for days, you may need 40–50 turns to achieve a full power reserve.
5. Stop when you feel slight resistance. This indicates the mainspring is fully wound. Do not force beyond this point.
6. Push the crown back in and check timekeeping. Allow the watch to run for a few minutes to stabilize before setting the time if needed.

This process should take no more than two minutes. Consistent, gentle winding preserves the gear train and prevents unnecessary wear.

Common Winding Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced watch owners sometimes make errors that compromise performance. Below are frequent issues and how to correct them:

Mistake	Why It’s Harmful	Solution
Overwinding	Can deform the mainspring or damage the slipping clutch mechanism	Stop winding when resistance increases—do not force further
Winding counter-clockwise	Most Megir movements only accept clockwise winding; reverse motion does nothing and may misalign gears	Always wind clockwise only
Winding while crown is pulled out	Engages the time-setting mechanism, which isn't designed for winding	Ensure crown is in neutral (pushed in) before winding
Using excessive force	Strains stem and gears, leading to premature failure	Use light, controlled pressure—like turning a fine-thread screw

How Often Should You Wind Your Megir Watch?

The frequency depends on usage and power reserve. Most Megir automatics have a 36–40 hour power reserve. If worn daily, the rotor will maintain the charge through motion, and manual winding is rarely needed. However, if the watch sits unused:

• Daily wearer: No manual winding required unless removed for more than a day.
• Occasional wearer: Wind manually every 2–3 days to keep lubricants circulating and prevent stiction (static friction in the movement).
• Long-term storage: Wind once every 2–3 weeks to prevent oil settling and component degradation.

“Regular, gentle winding keeps the internal oils evenly distributed and reduces long-term wear. A stagnant movement ages faster.” — Daniel Reyes, Horology Technician, Swiss Time Institute

Tips for Maximizing Performance and Longevity

Tip: After winding, let the watch run for 10 minutes before setting the time to ensure consistent amplitude.

Beyond proper winding, these habits enhance your Megir watch’s reliability:

• Wear it regularly. At least 8–10 hours of daily wear generates enough motion to keep the spring charged.
• Store it face-up when not in use. This minimizes positional error and protects the crystal.
• Keep it away from magnets. Speakers, phones, and magnetic clasps can disrupt the balance wheel.
• Service every 4–5 years. Re-lubrication and inspection prevent internal wear from going unnoticed.

Mini Case Study: Reviving a Dormant Megir Watch

Carlos hadn’t worn his Megir M8020 for over three weeks. When he picked it up, the second hand was frozen. He began winding immediately but felt resistance after 10 turns and stopped, thinking it was full. The watch started briefly but stopped again within minutes.

After consulting a guide, he learned that initial resistance isn’t always full wind—it can be static friction from prolonged rest. He resumed winding gently for 45 total turns. The watch then ran continuously and kept time within 10 seconds per day. Within 48 hours of wearing it, accuracy improved further as the rotor maintained the charge.

The lesson? Initial resistance doesn’t equal full power. Complete the recommended number of turns unless firm resistance is unmistakable.

Do’s and Don’ts Checklist

✅ Do:

• Wind clockwise with smooth, even turns
• Wind 20–50 times depending on dormancy
• Hold the watch securely in hand
• Wind periodically during storage
• Let the watch run before adjusting time

❌ Don’t:

• Force the crown past resistance
• Wind while the crown is pulled out
• Use quick, jerky motions
• Wear and wind excessively right after full wind
• Expose to water before ensuring crown is sealed

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I overwind my Megir automatic watch?

Modern Megir watches include a slipping clutch mechanism that disengages when the mainspring is fully wound, preventing true overwinding. However, applying excessive force can still damage the winding stem or gears. Always stop when you feel firm resistance.

How do I know when my watch is fully wound?

You’ll notice increasing resistance as the spring tightens. Once it becomes noticeably harder to turn the crown—even with steady pressure—it’s likely at full capacity. There’s no “click” or signal, so rely on tactile feedback. 40–50 turns usually suffices for a full reserve.

Should I wind my watch every day?

If you wear it daily, no. Natural motion will keep it powered. Manual winding is only necessary when the watch has stopped due to inactivity. Occasional winding (once a week) during non-use helps maintain lubrication and readiness.

Conclusion: Treat Your Watch Like a Living Mechanism

Your Megir automatic watch is more than a timekeeper—it’s a mechanical companion that thrives on care and consistency. Proper winding isn’t about brute effort; it’s about precision, patience, and understanding the delicate balance within. By following these guidelines, you protect its integrity, enhance its accuracy, and extend its life far beyond the average lifespan.

Whether you're reviving a dormant timepiece or maintaining a daily favorite, the ritual of winding connects you to the craftsmanship inside. Make it a mindful habit, not a chore. Over time, your watch will reward you with reliability, elegance, and the quiet satisfaction of knowing you’ve preserved something finely made.

💬 Have a winding tip or experience with your Megir watch? Share your story in the comments—your insight could help fellow enthusiasts keep their watches ticking perfectly.