It seems whenever a watch is reviewed on Hodinkee or ABTW and it's an automatic invariably there are several comments about how they would buy it if it was a manual wind.

I understand not like certain aesthetic choices like the case thickness or date window but what's behind this?

 

Manual wind movements tend to be thinner, which may be part of the reason. Other than that, I don't know.

I do love my Speedmaster, though.

 

Could be historical accuracy. "Upgrading" a vintage re-edition to an auto movement from a manual wind can be considered undesirable.

Also, less parts to break. I happen to like manual wind.

 

Watch winding is therapeutic. The interaction necessary to keep the thing running creates a curios bond with the inanimate object. The tactile sensation and the meditative counting of winds (usually around the same number each time) triggers both dopamine and serotonin response.

... that's the best I got.

 

So simple and pretty before that whirley thing got put on top of all the movements

 

It is usually thinner, looks better visually without a rotor and you have a better connection with the watch this way. Sounds crazy, but hey.. we are all crazy here.

 

I didn’t originally get it, but after getting a number of manual-winders, I definitely do now.

I would almost always prefer them over automatic now. They’re thinner, they allow for a pleasant daily interaction with the watch, easier to fix and I think they’re prettier to look at - frankly rotors tend to be ugly to my eyes.

 

You should write for Hodinkee.

 

So we'll put and so true.

 

+1. If you like dress watches, manual wind watches are thinner, and you can see the movt through the display back without the silly rotor getting in the way

Plus I like winding 'em

 

Manual wind is fun.

 

It's a new thing for sure. I find it odd... There are even new watches proclaiming "MANUAL" on the dial

 

Manually winding a watch everyday will prevent this

 

Agreed - this is probably part of why people like manual crankers.

Do I have to put you on the list after OmegaRolex? Tell you what.... I’m going to ignore that completely unnecessary sentence that is gratuitous Speedmasterbating.

 

Nothing wrong with automatic movements.

Even electronic movements & smart watches have their place...

On someone else’s wrist.

 

The worst part, is that I agree with your statement

 

Got into this thing of ours because I was tired of changing batteries and wanted a self winder. That was a huge deal to me. Then I bought my Reverso and I didn't care anymore. The thickness of autowind is the issue especially with movements like the 7753.

 

I have nothing against automatics, I really love my Connie but let's be honest here, can you find me an automatic that is as pretty as this Hamilton?

 

Nice 940!

 

As a newbie I can tell you that I love to charge my watches everyday, I like to be in control over them and I need to hear that peculiar sound while I wind them.