Automatic vs Manual movement servicing

[Elie]

Hi All,

I've been servicing manual watches for a few months now and I'm quite comfortable with these now. I've been waiting for Mark's level 4 course to come out to learn how to service automatic movements but it doesn't seem to be ready yet. Could someone please summarise the differences between servicing a manual vs an automatic watch movement? The key difference I know of is that you use a special grease on the walls of the barrel for automatic watches as the mainspring is meant to slide once it's fully wound. Anything else? 

What do I do with the automatic winding mechanism? Just take it apart, clean it with the rest and reinstall? What's the lubrication protocol for that?

Thanks in advance!

Elie

[mbwatch]

If at all possible, find a service guide for the automatic movements your work on, because the lubrication procedures may have different requirements or rely on oils you would not use in a manual wind train (in addition to the braking grease you mentioned).

Some autos like older Seikos do not have a manual wind option, so the procedure of letting down the mainspring without being able to use the crown may require a screwdriver in the ratchet wheel screw and great care.

Do you have an auto movement you were planning to start with?

[Klassiker]

Agreed. There are many different automatic winding mechanisms, each with their own quirks wrt. lubrication. Access to the specific service instructions is the ideal. Otherwise, ask here for advice on the movement you are working on.

[watchweasol]

Hi sterling advice already received. Like mechanical watches , automatics vary in construction and as mentioned, lubrication hence acquiring service sheets. A good reason to post if you need one. Amongst all the members some one usually has somthing.