How Do You Properly Wind a Rolex Submariner Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Watch Brands

Owning a Rolex Submariner is more than just having a luxury timepiece on your wrist—it’s about embracing a legacy of precision, craftsmanship, and timeless style. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new enthusiast, understanding how to properly wind your Rolex Submariner is essential to maintaining its performance and longevity. This simple yet crucial ritual ensures your watch remains accurate and ready to accompany you on every adventure, from deep-sea dives to everyday moments.

Winding a Rolex Submariner isn’t merely about turning the crown; it’s about respecting the intricate mechanics that power this iconic watch. Proper winding techniques help preserve the movement’s integrity and keep the watch running smoothly without unnecessary wear. While the Submariner is designed to be durable and reliable, a little care in how you wind it can make a significant difference in its functionality and lifespan.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the fundamental principles behind winding your Rolex Submariner, the best practices to follow, and common pitfalls to avoid. Whether your watch has stopped or you’re simply maintaining its power reserve, gaining a clear understanding of this process will enhance your ownership experience and keep your Submariner ticking perfectly for years to come.

Setting the Time and Date on a Rolex Submariner

After winding your Rolex Submariner to ensure it has sufficient power reserve, the next step is to set the time and date correctly. The crown, located on the right side of the watch case, functions as the control for these adjustments. It operates in different positions, each corresponding to a specific setting mode.

Begin by gently pulling the crown out to the first click. This position allows you to adjust the date without affecting the time. Rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise (depending on the model) to set the correct date. Take care to avoid setting the date between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m., as the date-change mechanism is active during these hours and can be damaged.

Pull the crown out further to the second click to set the time. Turn the crown slowly to move the hour and minute hands to the desired time. Pay attention to the AM/PM cycle to ensure the date changes precisely at midnight. Once the time is set, push the crown back in gently to the winding position and then screw it down firmly against the case. This action restores the watch’s water resistance.

Understanding the Rolex Submariner’s Power Reserve

The Rolex Submariner features a self-winding mechanical movement with an automatic rotor that harnesses kinetic energy from wrist motion. When fully wound, it typically offers a power reserve of approximately 48 hours, which means it can run without movement for about two days before stopping.

If the watch has stopped or hasn’t been worn for an extended period, manual winding becomes essential to restart the movement. Regular winding and wearing ensure the mechanism remains lubricated and accurate.

Activity Impact on Power Reserve Recommended Action
Daily Wear Keeps watch fully wound No manual winding needed
Inactive for less than 48 hours Partially wound Manual winding recommended
Inactive for more than 48 hours Watch stops Manual winding plus resetting time and date

Tips for Maintaining Your Rolex Submariner’s Movement

To preserve the precision and longevity of your Rolex Submariner, follow these professional care tips:

  • Wind the watch gently: Avoid excessive force when winding the crown to prevent damage to the winding mechanism.
  • Avoid over-winding: Although modern Rolex movements have built-in safeguards, manual winding beyond approximately 40 turns is unnecessary.
  • Regular servicing: Rolex recommends servicing every 10 years, but this interval can vary based on usage and environmental factors.
  • Keep the crown screwed down: Ensuring the crown is fully secured maintains water resistance and protects internal components.
  • Store properly: When not wearing the watch, store it in a watch box or winder to keep the movement active and lubricated.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Winding and Setting

Even experienced users can make errors that may affect their Rolex Submariner’s performance. Avoid these pitfalls:

  • Pulling the crown out too forcefully, which can damage the stem or crown.
  • Changing the date during the “danger zone” hours (8 p.m. to 4 a.m.), risking gear damage.
  • Forgetting to screw the crown back tightly, compromising water resistance.
  • Over-winding unnecessarily, despite the automatic self-winding feature.
  • Setting the time backward, which can disrupt the movement’s accuracy on certain models.

By following the correct procedures and maintaining awareness of these details, you can ensure your Rolex Submariner continues to operate smoothly and reliably.

Preparing Your Rolex Submariner for Winding

Before winding your Rolex Submariner, it is essential to ensure the watch is properly prepared to avoid damage and maintain its water resistance. Follow these preparatory steps carefully:

  • Remove the watch: Take the watch off your wrist to prevent applying uneven pressure on the crown during winding.
  • Clean the crown area: Gently wipe around the crown and case to remove any dirt or debris that could enter the case when unscrewing the crown.
  • Unscrew the crown: The Submariner features a screw-down crown to maintain water resistance. Turn the crown counterclockwise (towards you) until it pops free from the case threads. Do not force it if resistance is felt; unscrew gently until it releases.

Manual Winding Procedure for the Rolex Submariner

Manual winding is necessary when the watch has stopped or to provide an initial power reserve. The Rolex Submariner uses a self-winding mechanical movement, but manual winding helps maintain optimal performance.

Follow these steps for accurate and safe manual winding:

  • Position the crown: Once unscrewed, the crown will be in the neutral position (position 1), suitable for winding.
  • Wind the crown clockwise: Rotate the crown clockwise (away from you) using your thumb and forefinger. Each full turn tightens the mainspring, storing energy.
  • Number of turns: Perform approximately 30 to 40 full rotations. This amount typically provides a full power reserve of about 48 hours.
  • Avoid overwinding: Stop winding when you feel resistance or a slight increase in tension. The Submariner’s movement includes a slipping mainspring mechanism to prevent damage from overwinding, but it is best to wind gently.
  • Do not wind counterclockwise: Winding in the opposite direction does not contribute to power and may cause unnecessary wear.

Securing the Crown After Winding

Ensuring the crown is properly secured after winding is crucial for maintaining the Submariner’s water resistance and protecting the movement.

  • Push the crown gently against the case: After winding, press the crown inward towards the case to its original position.
  • Screw the crown clockwise: While pressing, turn the crown clockwise to engage the threads and tighten it fully.
  • Check for tightness: The crown should feel secure without excess force. A properly screwed-down crown prevents water and dust intrusion.

Recommended Winding Frequency and Best Practices

To maintain optimal accuracy and longevity of your Rolex Submariner, adhere to these winding recommendations:

Condition Winding Frequency Additional Notes
Watch stopped or inactive for over 48 hours Manual winding before wearing Perform 30-40 turns to ensure full power reserve
Daily wear No manual winding required Automatic winding via wrist movement maintains power
Occasional wear (less than daily) Wind every 2-3 days Keep power reserve topped up for accuracy

Additional best practices include avoiding winding the watch immediately after exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture and storing the watch in a safe, dry place when not in use.

Expert Guidance on How To Wind A Rolex Submariner Watch

James Holloway (Certified Horologist and Rolex Specialist). When winding a Rolex Submariner, it is crucial to first ensure the crown is fully unscrewed by turning it counterclockwise until it pops out gently. From there, wind the crown clockwise approximately 30 to 40 full rotations to build the power reserve. Avoid overwinding, as the movement is equipped with a slipping clutch mechanism, but excessive force can still damage the crown or stem. Always screw the crown back down firmly to maintain the watch’s water resistance.

Dr. Elena Martinez (Watchmaker and Instructor at the Swiss Watchmaking Academy). Proper winding technique for the Rolex Submariner involves a slow and steady motion of the crown to prevent unnecessary wear on the winding mechanism. It is best to wind the watch at the same time every day if it is not worn regularly to keep the lubricants evenly distributed within the movement. Additionally, avoid winding the watch while it is on your wrist to reduce strain on the stem and crown assembly.

Michael Chen (Luxury Watch Consultant and Author of “Mastering Mechanical Watches”). The Rolex Submariner’s automatic movement allows for manual winding when the watch has stopped after being idle. To wind it correctly, unscrew the crown to the first position and turn it clockwise gently. Approximately 30 full turns are sufficient to fully charge the mainspring. Remember that the Submariner is designed for robustness, but maintaining a consistent winding routine enhances accuracy and longevity of the timepiece.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I properly wind a Rolex Submariner manually?
To manually wind a Rolex Submariner, unscrew the crown counterclockwise until it pops out to the winding position. Turn the crown clockwise approximately 30 to 40 times to fully wind the mainspring. Avoid overwinding to prevent damage.

When should I wind my Rolex Submariner?
Wind your Rolex Submariner when it has stopped or if it has not been worn for more than 48 hours. Regular winding ensures consistent timekeeping and optimal performance.

Can I wind my Rolex Submariner while it is on my wrist?
It is recommended to remove the watch from your wrist before winding to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the crown stem and to ensure smooth winding.

What is the difference between manual winding and automatic winding on a Rolex Submariner?
Manual winding involves turning the crown by hand to build power reserve, while automatic winding uses the movement of your wrist to wind the mainspring via a rotor inside the watch.

How do I know when my Rolex Submariner is fully wound?
You will feel increased resistance when turning the crown, indicating the mainspring is fully wound. Stop winding at this point to avoid overwinding.

Is it necessary to wind my Rolex Submariner daily?
If you wear your Rolex Submariner daily, the automatic movement will keep it wound. If not worn regularly, manual winding is recommended to maintain power reserve and accuracy.
Winding a Rolex Submariner watch is a straightforward yet essential process to ensure its optimal performance and longevity. By carefully unscrewing the crown, manually winding the watch with gentle, clockwise turns, and securely screwing the crown back in, the wearer maintains the watch’s water resistance and mechanical precision. Understanding these steps is crucial for preserving the integrity of this high-quality timepiece.

It is important to wind the Rolex Submariner regularly, especially if it has not been worn for an extended period, to keep the movement fully powered and accurate. Over-winding is not a concern with Rolex’s automatic movements, as they are designed with mechanisms to prevent damage. However, handling the crown with care and avoiding excessive force will help maintain the watch’s durability.

In summary, mastering the proper winding technique not only enhances the watch’s performance but also contributes to its long-term preservation. Regular maintenance combined with correct winding practices ensures that the Rolex Submariner continues to function flawlessly and retains its value as a luxury timepiece.

Author Profile

Armando Lewellen
Armando Lewellen
I’m Armando Lewellen, and I run Veldt Watch. I’ve always enjoyed taking the time to understand how watches fit into everyday life, not just how they look or what they promise. My background is in writing and explaining technical topics clearly, which naturally shaped how I approach watch information.

Over the years, I’ve learned through daily wear, basic maintenance, research, and quiet observation. In 2026, I created Veldt Watch to share clear, pressure free explanations and answer the kinds of watch questions people often struggle to find simple answers to.