If you've searched "automatic watch running fast," "magnetized watch symptoms," "watch magnetism," or "how to demagnetize a watch," magnetism may be one of the possibilities you've encountered.
Mechanical watches contain extremely small components, and exposure to sufficiently strong magnetic fields can affect the operation of some movements.
That can sometimes produce noticeable changes in accuracy.
What Is Watch Magnetism?
Mechanical watch movements use a balance assembly to regulate timekeeping.
Certain movement components may be affected by magnetic fields.
If parts become magnetized, the movement may begin performing differently from its normal behavior.
What Can Magnetize a Watch?
Potential magnetic sources can include some:
- speakers
- magnetic closures
- electronic equipment
- charging accessories
- strong magnets
- industrial equipment
Not every everyday electronic device will automatically magnetize a watch. Field strength, distance, exposure time, and movement design all matter.
What Are the Symptoms of a Magnetized Watch?
Potential signs can include a sudden substantial change in mechanical timekeeping.
For example, an automatic watch that previously performed consistently but suddenly begins gaining significant time may warrant investigation.
However, abnormal accuracy doesn't automatically prove magnetism.
Other potential causes can include:
- movement regulation
- mechanical condition
- impact
- servicing requirements
Why Can Magnetism Make a Watch Run Fast?
Some mechanical regulating components can behave differently when magnetized.
This can affect the oscillation responsible for controlling the movement's rate.
The exact result depends on the movement and the nature of the magnetic exposure.
How Do You Know If a Watch Is Magnetized?
Professional watchmakers can test mechanical watches for magnetism.
Consumer tools and applications may provide rough indications in some situations, but professional evaluation is more appropriate when the watch shows significant abnormal behavior.
Can a Magnetized Watch Be Fixed?
Demagnetization is a standard watchmaking procedure.
A qualified professional can determine whether magnetism is actually responsible and address it appropriately.
If abnormal accuracy persists after demagnetization, additional inspection may be necessary.
Should You Demagnetize a Watch Yourself?
Avoid repeatedly experimenting on a watch unless you understand the equipment and procedure.
If your watch is valuable or you're uncertain about the cause of an accuracy problem, professional inspection is safer.
Are Modern Automatic Watches Anti-Magnetic?
Magnetic resistance varies significantly between watches and movements.
Some are specifically engineered for enhanced magnetic resistance, while ordinary mechanical watches may have less protection.
Always check the specifications of the specific model.
Automatic Watch Running Fast Doesn't Always Mean Magnetism
This is important.
Mechanical watches naturally operate within tolerances.
If your automatic watch is gaining a small amount of time while remaining within its stated specification, nothing may be wrong.
The concern is usually a significant and unexpected change from normal performance.
How to Reduce Magnetic Exposure
You don't need to become paranoid about everyday technology.
Reasonable precautions include avoiding prolonged close contact with unusually strong magnets and storing your mechanical watch away from obvious magnetic sources.
Specht & Sohne Automatic Watch Accuracy
When evaluating a Specht & Sohne automatic watch, compare its performance with the specifications of the particular movement.
If the watch suddenly deviates substantially from its normal behavior, professional evaluation can help identify whether regulation, magnetism, or another issue is responsible.
Final Thoughts
Watch magnetism is real, but it shouldn't become the automatic explanation for every accuracy variation.
If your mechanical watch suddenly runs dramatically faster or differently than before:
- compare its performance over several days,
- check the movement specification,
- consider recent magnetic exposure,
- seek professional inspection if necessary.