If you own an Omega Seamaster or are considering purchasing one, it’s essential to understand how to wind it properly. While many Seamaster models are automatic, knowing how and when to manually wind your watch can help maintain optimal performance — and ensure it keeps ticking when not worn regularly.

Whether it’s your first mechanical watch or just your first Omega, this guide walks you through the process step-by-step.

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First, Know Your Seamaster Model

Omega’s Seamaster line includes a wide range of models, from professional dive watches to sleek daily wearers. Most are automatic, meaning they self-wind through the movement of your wrist. However, even automatic watches benefit from occasional manual winding — especially if they haven’t been worn for a few days.

Some vintage Seamaster models are manual-wind only, and a few quartz variants exist as well. Before you start, it's worth double-checking your specific model type to ensure you're following the correct process.

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What You’ll Need

Not much — just your Omega Seamaster. However, it’s important to handle your watch gently and make sure your hands are clean and dry before interacting with the crown.

If your watch has a screw-down crown (common on dive-rated Seamasters), you’ll need to unscrew it first before you can wind it.

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Step-by-Step: How to Wind Your Omega Seamaster

1. Locate the Crown
   The crown is the small knob on the right-hand side of the case. This is what you'll use to wind and set your watch.
2. Unscrew the Crown (If Applicable)
   If your Seamaster has a screw-down crown, gently turn it counter-clockwise until it pops out to the first position. Do not force it — it should come loose with a light twist.
3. Wind the Crown
   With the crown in its neutral (pushed-in but unscrewed) position, turn it clockwise (away from you) slowly and steadily. You should feel a light resistance as the mainspring tightens.
   • Aim for about 20–30 full turns if the watch is completely unwound.
   • Stop if you begin to feel significant resistance — this means the mainspring is fully wound.
4. Do Not Overwind
   Omega watches have built-in protection to prevent overwinding, but it’s still best to avoid forcing the crown once it feels fully tensioned.
5. Push and Screw Back the Crown
   After winding, gently press the crown back in and screw it down (if your model has a screw-down crown). This step is crucial for maintaining the watch’s water resistance.

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How Often Should You Wind It?

If you wear your Seamaster daily, the movement of your wrist will usually be enough to keep it powered. However, if it's been sitting idle for more than 2–3 days, a manual wind is recommended before wearing it again.

For vintage or manually wound models, you’ll want to wind the watch once per day — ideally around the same time — to ensure consistent accuracy.

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Signs Your Watch Needs Winding

• The second hand has stopped moving
• The time is lagging or inconsistent
• You haven’t worn the watch for a couple of days

It’s a good habit to give your Seamaster a quick wind before heading out, especially if it hasn’t been on your wrist recently.

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Other Tips to Keep in Mind

• Avoid winding while wearing the watch: It’s best to remove the watch from your wrist to reduce pressure on the stem and crown.
• Store it carefully: If you rotate between watches, consider a watch winder for your automatic Seamaster.
• Regular servicing matters: Even the most reliable mechanical movements benefit from periodic maintenance.

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Final Thoughts

Winding your Omega Seamaster isn’t complicated, but it’s a fundamental skill that ensures your watch performs its best. Whether you're prepping it for daily wear or bringing it back to life after a few days of rest, proper winding helps maintain accuracy, longevity, and enjoyment.

Taking just a minute to wind your Seamaster the right way can make all the difference in the long run — a small ritual that connects you to the precision and craftsmanship behind every Omega timepiece.