There is something special about a hand-wound or manual-winding watch. Even though it requires maintenance, deep cleaning, and lubrication every few years, this type of timepiece is worth every penny. It is powered by mechanical, manual movement, meaning you need to wind the crown frequently to charge the mainspring.
Since the release of automatic movements, the popularity of manual timepieces has decreased. Nonetheless, they are still preferred by some watch enthusiasts and collectors because they appreciate the fine mechanical craftsmanship behind these pieces. Many people enjoy the ritual of winding their manual wind watch regularly since it brings them closer to experiencing the movement. Thus, here are a few manual-winding watches you should consider buying:
1. Omega Speedmaster Professional
In 1957, the Omega Speedmaster Professional was released. Also known as the Moonwatch, this manual-winding chronograph was meant for either racing or sports. Its connection to outer space had been established a few years later when NASA chose it for its Apollo and Gemini missions. It became even more iconic when the astronaut Buzz Aldrin wore it while exiting the spacecraft and taking his first step on the moon. Over the years, the Moonwatch has been through numerous changes, but its main essence stays the same.
2. Tissot Heritage Petite Seconde
The Heritage Petite Seconde is from the Tissot Heritage collection. It is a 42 mm three-hand watch with a petite seconde sub-dial placed at the 6 o’clock position. Moreover, it is the contemporary version of the original timepiece that the brand had produced in 1943. Powered by the ubiquitous ETA 6498-1, a manual-winding movement with a power reserve of 46 hours. It is a solid movement that has been originally designed for pocket watches. Also, the aesthetics of this timepiece is striking; it has a legible and large display that matches the original in 1943.
3. Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso
Debuted in 1930, the Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso boasts of its rectangular case and interesting reversible case. The Polo players requested Cesar de Trey to craft a watch that can withstand the knocks from polo mallets, and the Reverso was his answer. This gave him the idea to produce a timepiece with a reversible case. Through the years, the Reverso had made plenty of reiterations. If you are looking for a dress watch with a unique shape this is perfect for you!
4. Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical H69439931
Probably one of the most affordable field watches available on the market these days, the Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical H69439931 is worth buying. It features a mechanical hand-wound movement, a matte stainless steel case with a 38 mm diameter, and a traditional military shape with squared-off lugs. This watch works well for any occasion and is water-resistant to 50 meters. Additionally, the dial is matte black and has 12-hour and 24-hour Arabic numerals in white on the dial. Those who enjoy rugged military field watches, history, and hand-wound movements will love the Khaki Field.
5. Grand Seiko SBGW275 Genbi Valley US Limited Edition
One of the fantastic timepieces from Grand Seiko is the SBGW275 Genbi Valley US Limited Edition. It is well-sized at 37.3 mm and features a stunning textured dial, which is created by a method called Kirazuri, or sparkling painting. More importantly, it has an excellent manual-winding caliber 9S64. You will truly be amazed by the simplicity and sheer brilliance of the Genbi Valley as it encapsulates all the things you want in a watch. All things were done right in their simplest form.
Takeaway
Each manual-winding watch specified above is unique and offers various features. You can never go wrong choosing this type of timepiece, for they bring a historical connection with you. Also, they do not have rotors, meaning they sit better on the wrist. It is always a great idea to purchase a watch with a manual movement, for it gives you a vintage vibe and can be worn at any event. Hence, head to the watch store near you and check out different manual-winding watches!
