Why Does My Seiko Watch Stop Ticking After Setting the Time?

Seiko watches are renowned for their precision and reliability, but sometimes users may encounter unexpected issues. One common concern is why a Seiko watch stops ticking after setting the time. This article will explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and offer tips to prevent it from happening.

Understanding the Mechanics of an Automatic Seiko Watch

Seiko offers a range of watch models, both automatic and manual wind. Automatic watches, which are the most commonly encountered issue, rely on a mechanical movement powered by the natural movement of the wearer's wrist. This mechanism features a mainspring that is wound continuously throughout the day as the wrist moves. However, certain automatic models come with a feature known as "stopping/hacking seconds."

The Stopping/Reviewing Seconds Functionality

Automatic watches with a stopping/hacking seconds feature will stop the second hand as you begin to set the time. This function is designed to allow the wearer to adjust the time more accurately, preventing the watch from losing accuracy due to manual time setting.

Typically, this feature will activate when you pull out the crown (crown pull-out mechanism) to set the time. Once you release the crown, the watch should resume its normal ticking. If the watch does not start ticking, it could be due to a few reasons such as a faulty crown or a lack of power.

Resolving the Stopping Watch Issue

If your Seiko watch stops ticking after setting the time, here are some steps you can take to resolve the issue:

Check the Crown Mechanism: Ensure that the crown is properly inserted and not stuck. Sometimes, the crown may come partially out, disrupting the normal operation of the watch. Gently push the crown back in and try setting the time again. Check the Winding Mechanism: Automatic watches need to be wound regularly. If the watch has not been worn or wound for an extended period, it might not have enough power to function properly. Try wearing the watch or manually winding the watch to full by pulling out the crown to the first click, then turning it several times, and finally pulling it back in. Check the Date Complication: If you have a date complication on your Seiko watch, be cautious about setting the time between 20:00 and 04:00. During this period, the quick date setting mechanism is active, and setting the time can cause damage to the watch. Avoid setting the time during these hours if possible.

Preventive Measures

To prevent your Seiko watch from stopping after setting the time, consider the following preventive measures:

Regular Use: Ensure that you wear your watch regularly or at least wind it every day. This will keep the mechanics of the watch lubricated and ensure it has enough power to function properly. Avoid Excessive Pulling of the Crown: Minimize the amount you pull out the crown when setting the time. Over-pulling can weaken the crown mechanism and cause it to fail. Use the Quick Date Setting with Caution: When using the quick date setting feature, be aware of the time period where the date complication is most active. Avoid setting the time within 20:00 to 04:00 if you have a date watch.

Conclusion

The Seiko watch stopping after setting the time is a common issue, but with proper understanding and care, you can prevent and easily resolve it. Remember the functionality of the stopping/hacking seconds and the importance of proper crown usage. By following the preventive measures outlined above, you can enjoy your Seiko watch to the fullest without encountering this annoyance.

For further assistance or specific recommendations based on your watch model, it is advisable to consult a professional watchmaker or visit the official Seiko customer service center.