What is an automatic watch?

We recently launched Havu's first automatic wristwatch, named Korpi. A wooden automatic watch is still a rarity in the market, so it has been very gratifying to see the level of interest it has received. The reception overall has been fantastic, and we sincerely thank you for the feedback we've received.

After the launch and during the pre-sale period, we noticed that one thing in particular was causing uncertainty among our customers: What exactly is an automatic watch? So, let's shed some light on the matter.

An automatic watch refers to a wristwatch that features a mechanical automatic movement instead of a quartz movement powered by a battery. The operation of the movement relies on kinetic energy generated, for example, by the movement of the wrist while wearing the watch. As a result of this motion, the mainspring of the watch's movement winds up and seeks to release its energy to set the movement in motion. The automatic movement continues to run as long as there is sufficient kinetic energy. When the watch is left unused for a sufficiently long period, the movement stops running and resumes only when it is put back into motion. The power reserve of automatic watches, the time a watch will continue to run while idle, is typically several tens of hours. In the case of our Korpi watch, the power reserve is approximately 42 hours. Unlike quartz movements powered by batteries, mechanical movements are never perfectly accurate - automatic watches typically gain or lose a few seconds per day.

Watches powered by automatic movements are slightly more expensive than those with quartz movements. Constructing a mechanical movement requires detailed and precise work, making their manufacturing process more expensive than that of battery-powered movements. Due to their craftsmanship and unique mechanics, automatic watches are particularly popular among watch enthusiasts.

A mechanical watch is not as effortless to maintain as a battery-powered one, which is an essential part of the allure of automatic watches. As the owner of an automatic watch, you get to personally ensure its operation and accuracy using kinetic energy, as there is no electronics involved in a mechanical movement. This creates a special connection between you and the watch; you become part of its functioning mechanism. By taking care of your automatic watch and avoiding external damage, you'll have a long-lasting companion for years to come.

- The Havu Team