Beginner's Checklist for a Mechanical Watch

Buying your first automatic? Run these checks before tapping the card.

• Wind feel: the crown should turn smoothly with light resistance.
• Sweep: the seconds hand should glide, not tick once per second.
• Accuracy: under ±20 sec/day is healthy for a new ETA/Seiko movement.
• Lume: charge with a torch in a dark room — even glow on both hands.
• Strap/bracelet: clasp shouldn't flex; end-links should sit flush.
• Crystal: look across at an angle — sapphire stays clear, mineral hazes slightly.

Get these six right and you've avoided the common return scenarios.