From Seiko to Rolex, will wearing an automatic watch while riding A Motorcycle damage the Watch?

frequently asked Question, will riding a motorcycle while wearing a mechanical watch cause damage to the watch?
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PATREON. / stuartfillingham

[@markymarknj]

Stu, when I served in the US Navy, I had a Seiko automatic diver's watch. It retailed for $120 or $150 in the early 1980s, while the ship's store had them for $90. That was too good to pass up, so I got one. During my service, I beat the SNOT out of that thing! I dropped it in paint, solvents, and grease; I used it for working with grease and mechanical tools; I used it for snorkeling and sailboat racing; and I used it when riding my little, 50cc scooter. That thing worked no matter what I threw at it. Sure, the case and bezel were scratched up, but the crystal was all right; the watch worked fine. What killed it was leaving it in my drawer for years. I used the first Casio G-Shock when it came out, and I had other watches through the years. What killed my Seiko automatic diver's watch wasn't the use and abuse I dished out to it (and I dished out plenty!); no, what killed it was years of disuse, years of sitting in my drawer unused. I tried to have it fixed i n the early 2000s, but even then, getting parts was a challenge; at 40 years old, getting parts to fix it will be even more difficult. Not using a mechanical watch is what will kill it, not regular use, not riding a motorcycle, or even doing hard, manual work (like welding, working on a bike, etc.).

[@peterowen851]

I have a 22 year old Omega Seamaster automatic owned from new. Hardly ever off my wrist and I cycle most days and have ridden motorcycles continuously. I have needed the metal strap fixed three or four times and have the watch serviced every 6/7 years. Not had a single problem with the mechanical parts. In my mind it looks as good today as it did when I bought it.

[@stevesteve1965]

I've had a collection of Seiko mechanical (automatics) watches and a couple of watches with Seiko movements along side one or two G-Shock knockabout watches. I have had no issues with any of them as a result of riding a motorcycle wearing them. None of them have gained or lost time (outside normal life expectations) straps and spring bars are still secure, no extra winding needed... All in perfectly good order. As Seiko is probably the greatest watch manufacturer I'd expect them to handle day to day life and be tested to destruction whilst in development. Getting them near magnets is another thing all together.

[@MIflyer]

I don’t hesitate to go flying, ride a motorcycle, or head to the rifle range with the watches I own, automatic, manual, or otherwise. Think of what our grandfathers were doing with military issue Hamiltons, Glycine Airmen, and Omega Speedmasters 50-80 years ago, and then consider that even a modestly priced modern automatic is built more robustly than those watches were. Bear in mind also that automatic watched do require servicing. Your chosen activity may shorten the service interval, but there is very little that you can do to an automatic watch that can’t easily be corrected with simple adjustments by a competent watchmaker, and the watch will inevitably need servicing, whether you take it rock climbing or leave it in your sock drawer. That said, my motorcycling watch of choice is a quartz: a 1970s-vintage Omega 1342-powered Seamaster - simply because it’s quite thin, slips under a glove with ease, and is comfortable there all day. The 1342 movement is unique and makes the case for having an interesting quartz or two in your collection! 😁

[@brianperry]

Before an accurate timepiece was invented it was impossible to determine longitude. When I was at Sea the officers still used a sextant plus an accurate clock.... Sun at its Zenith plus the time...I agree with you about mechanical watches. I got 'suckered' into the Quartz timepiece. I bought a vey expensive Seiko quartz crystal watch after owning a mechanical Sea-lion Seiko from 1967. It 'conked out'... probably just needed cleaning!..But the desire to embarrass new technology was just to great..Just had to own one....Did the same when I first laid eyes on the Moto Guzzi 850 Le mans.... Just had to own one...I was a lost cause..

[@wh2982]

...I am riding motorcycles since 1976 and wore several mechanic watches during that time. The last ten years I use a Longines Hydro Conquest and it still works as it should...😊

[@bonza167]

I have a TAG Heuer Aquaracer auto watch that I bought new about five years ago. it has failed several times requiring repairs and I put it down to the vibration while riding a moto. however, over the past 12 months I've been wearing a Seiko automatic and it's never off my wrist and has not missed a beat including during lots of rides. I've come to the conclusion that the TAG was an overpriced heap of rubbish

[@stuartfillingham]

Yeah TAG is not a brand that is on my wish list!

[@jmlupoludowicy1239]

Hi there, please bear in mind that most Aquaracers come with Sellita movements. I’m riding with a Monaco, in-house caliber 02, on various motorcycles, RE Classic 500, Suzuki DR800, KTM V-Twins without an issue. I’m not a fan of Sellita movements and try to avoid them where I can, especially the chronographs like the SW550. Cheers & ride safe!

[@bernardmackle6900]

Been wearing a TAG automatic since 1994 on my twin cylinder bikes without any issues at all!

[@stuartfillingham]

@@bernardmackle6900 That was the old Tag company they have changed hands since then. Also, they now only use the cheaper sellita movements sw200 or sw300 decent movements for a budget watch costing £300 to £500 but Tag is still charging entry level luxury prices for their watches £1500 to £3000. No more than an overpriced boutique Brand these days I'm afraid.

[@stuartfillingham]

@@jmlupoludowicy1239 The only movement I've ever had issues with was a sellita.

[@andrerobertdrouin3642]

Stuart my first mechanical was a Timex 1967 , my second one was a gift from my college buddy of the time, a russian military job . That watch was brass casing and i cant even tell you the maker , but over the years had it refurbished twice , yes it cost me a pretty penny but that thing is still humming at a rate of ten seconds of my timex adventurer i prefer that tractor of a watch because like the bike it is mechanical and that i understand , i am 76 now and could not give a rats behind what some modern dufuss thinks of mechanical watches granted you have flimsy ones but choose right you get a time piece that with regular care will last longer than you will . My friend Yuriy is dead now but he lives with me in this old watch foreever my companion .

[@jons78733]

I am a bicyclist, a motorcyclist and play around in my workshop nearly every day. Here are my personal rules: 1. I wear a mechanical watch most of the time when I ride my road bicycles. 2. When I mountain bike, I wear one of my G-Shocks. 3. When I motorcycle, I mostly wear a mechanical watch. The exceptions are when off-road such as enduro riding or desert / trail riding. In those cases, I again resort to a G-Shock. 4. I wear a mechanical watch almost every time I am working with hand tools. In the past thirty-five years, I have never had an issue with a watch failing or being damaged. As a side note, I wore a “vintage” Rolex GMT Master for about fifteen years, partaking in all of the activities listed above. I just had that watch serviced by Rolex in Dallas, Texas and will say that it never let me down nor did it sustain any damage following all of those years of abuse. Generally, I agree with everything you spoke about in this presentation. I love the video and doubt there are many, if any, other KZbin posts about this topic out there. Keep up the great work, Stuart!

[@agubser07]

Awesome! I just purchased my first automatic watch (Seiko 5 Sports) and came across a video claiming that riding a motorcycle could damage the movement. Thanks for debunking that!

[@jayprashanth]

My dad has been wearing HMT mechanical watches for more than 4 decades. He commutes on a bajaj Chetak 2 stroke 150cc scooter that's 33 years old. The hand made, manual winding watches have never skipped a beat.

[@barrettwbenton]

First of all, it's nice to see examples of your collection throughout this video, Stu…quite the cool selection. As far as durability goes, between my decades as a cyclist in New York, and the last seven years motoring on two wheels, I've yet to suffer a single watch failure or malfunction on account of riding conditions, including the occasional crash (where indeed the watch wasn't my first concern). Then, as now, most of my watches were mechanical, both manual-wind and automatic, with the occasional quartz thrown in for variety. I'm big on Seiko for my mechanicals, including an 017 Alpinist field watch, and a 70s-era 6139 chronograph, whose moment is arguably the first-ever automatic chrono movement to be put into serial production (you'll absolutely start a food-fight on watch forums on *that* subject), and I'm not concerned in the least about wearing either watch while on the bike. Good watches and good bikes do complement one another!

[@mrfuriouser]

In summation- ONLY IF YOU CRASH. Keep the rubber-side down, friends! Remember, folks in the past wore non-quartz watches for EVERYTHING.

[@nicktiu2266]

Hi Stuart, I have had a seiko 5 automatic watch and have worn it on motorcycles for 42 years and have had no issues with it in that time. Great watch .

[@CR4ZYHOR5E]

Love these sorts of videos - I have a Laco (replica) pilots watch with an automatic mechanism. The sorts of aeroplanes I fly are 70+ old and vibrate at all sorts of different frequencies, all seems fine. I go through leather straps every 4-5 years but that’s another matter. Thanks Stu

[@MsWorkboots21]

Aha...classic motorcycles, automatic watches... Straight razor shaving, Stu? You know you want to!

[@MuditBadlani]

Loved this one even more than usual Uncle Stu. I'm one of the millennials you referred to in another video - those who on account of their disillusionment with a "use & throw" world and consequent actions in the face of it, have allegedly helped resurrect the mechanical watch. Seperately, unlike most millennials, I'm also a returning biker (hiatus of about a decade, "first" riding phase relatively young - from 16 to 19 y/o). Your videos have helped a lot. Therefore the crossover between watches and riding really hits home. Particularly, seeing your collection and how it reflects, permit me - your no-nonsense, straightforward, sensible and classy traits that are ever-evident in the way you comport yourself. And here are my 2 cents towards the empirical/anecdotal observations around mechanical watches and riding - my modern Seiko automatic which I wear damn-near all day runs just fine, and the roads here are especially bad. Also, not only am I not always on a modern bike with a good suspension (sometimes I'm on a CVT moped with atrocious suspension and handlebar rattle); I rarely slow down for the myriad potholes (or rather, craters), nor for the ubiquitous (and mostly illegally installed, I might add) speed bumps. I just stand on the pegs and pretend I'm on an ADV/Dual Sport. No issues with the watch yet, and I don't expect any either. Cheers sir! Love from India. Doffs 🎩

[@jezza1421]

Back in the late seventies, I had a Sekonda automatic. I was wearing it when I crashed my Triton into the side of a car (the car turned right in front of me). My Sekonda was damaged and stopped working. I had it repaired and whilst rebuilding the Triton, I rode all sorts of bikes; a couple of Commandos, a Triumph TRW, a Triumph Thunderbird and various Japanese bikes, the Sekonda kept perfect time, then the Triton was rebuilt and put on back on the road! Problem was, every time I rode it, the Sekonda stopped! Never did work out why. I too have moved back to automatic mechanical watches and probably have the makings of a small collection, I guess, like bikes, you can never have too many

[@tpelle2]

My older brother (now deceased, unfortunately) worked in construction. I remember him telling me one day that he had purchased an inexpensive automatic wristwatch made by Timex. He said that he liked the notion of not having to wind it, or as on the new quartz watches, having to replace the battery. He related that he liked it as it was quite accurate, but one day on his job he had to demolish a concrete patio slab using a pneumatic jackhammer. He related that the Timex ran extremely fast after that, so he just threw it in the trash thinking it was ruined, and bought another cheap quartz watch. So now we know that a jackhammer must set some standard for too much vibration. It's too bad that he didn't know that the period and cadence adjustment levers on the balance wheel escapement just needed to be re-regulated. It's not a difficult job, but it is rather tedious to do. I have a Seiko "007" automatic diver's watch that I never wore, simply because it was very poorly regulated at the factory - off over 30 or so seconds per day. I decided to tweak the period lever, then just let it run for a day to see if the accuracy improved. Then I would tweak it a little more, using a very thin pin punch to move the lever, reset the time, then let it go for another day. It took about a week to get it regulated to a good degree of accuracy. By the way, have you ever read the book, or seen the BBC documentary "Longitude"? If not, I think you would enjoy it. It tells the story of John Harrison, and amateur clock maker, who back in the late 1700's was awarded a prize by the Admiralty for inventing a "chronometer" that was sufficiently accurate to be used on a ship to calculate the ship's position, using celestial tables published by the Greenwich Observatory, which required an accurate clock.

[@HippieBiker1369]

I own an automatic Hamilton Kahki for a few years now, I wear it every time I ride my motorcycle (Harley-Davidson Wide Glide), and it still works perfectly.

[@blownouttransmission5832]

i cycle everywhere in 25mm tyres at 105psi , zero suspension and feel every deviation in the road at 20mph average in all weather , my seagull st6 , miyota 2815 , and tmi seiko nh35 all work fine and hold time without issue.

[@jabjab1010]

I searched for years for a modern automatic that wasn’t a Rolex and their unfortunate price point which just shows ego, not quality anymore. I settled on and for a Tag Aquaracer. I cross oceans on sailboats, and I ride motorcycles less than I want but more than most. My classic Omega Seamaster and Constellation keep time well but are not hearty. These old men are retired and enjoy the rocking chair or the local pub. That is all. the Tag is not without it’s weak points but holds time well and looks good without being ostentatious. Nice Vid. Thanks.

[@ianhoyle8459]

I agree with you, no different to riding in any other form of automated transport. Cycling with zero suspension other than pneumatic tyres is very rough on UK roads but I’ve not experienced a mechanical watch or electronic device problem. I think it may be high frequency vibration that may be more of a problem for delicate components mechanical or electrical particularly if mounted directly in contact with the machine. I have damaged the camera facility on two iPhones, and also three Oxford quartz motorcycle clocks left permanently losing time where they have been mounted directly to handle bar mounts. I had to purchase a vibration damping mount for my phone which so far has prevented further problems. The machine in question is a Suzuki GSF1200 Bandit which seems to be susceptible to high frequency vibration at higher RPM! Cheers

[@tightrope34]

Been wearing a Rolex Explorer 2 on bikes for over 40 years without problems. Velocette Venom to Pan European, 1,2, or 4 cylinders.

[@stuartfillingham]

Excellent!

[@beberforumer9715]

im a motorcyclist and shoot pistol in competitions. my seiko sea urchin have no problems with vibrations. however , i prefer quartz accuracy and robustnes

[@mehdibb4186]

I believe smart phone are far more damaging than motorcycles ! Love my Tudor Marine National FXD and wear it on the bike and other activities .

[@pimneij2219]

Another great video!! I used to have a Harley Davidson (talking about vibrations) and i have a few automatic watches. They all handled it fine. Mechanical watches are very robust these days.

[@jamescapstick9598]

No mention of static in the body freezing the mechanism of the mechanical watches. Along with millions of others in the period pre quartz I used a pocket watch. And to be fair I still prefer them to wrist watches.

[@kalynstalinski8375]

KZbin watch channels: “this watch was designed for extreme environments and for soldiers on the battlefield and for sir Hillary’s Everest expedition….etc. etc…..but riding a motorcycle or getting within 100 yards of a magnetic compass will ruin it!”

[@UncleVoodoo]

I have some quartz watches but almost exclusively wear one of my mechanicals when I'm out and about on the bike- even on my off-road adventures and never had any problems. "they" say not to wear them playing golf either but I use one of my mechanicals to actually keep my score- once again never had a problem. Lots of old wives tales out there.

[@wltrlg]

Excellent video Uncle Stu! Had the same question for a while, happy it is cleared up now 😀

[@zachariahz9832]

Literally bought my first automatic Seiko today! I'm wondering how it would hold up to my line of work (maintenance mechanic).

[@Andy_Bat]

My Omega Speedmaster and Christopher Ward Aviator watches work beautifully on or off the motorcycle, the Omega being chosen for the Apollo moon missions because of its excellent vibration tolerance.

[@TT-mb6rz]

Stuart, depends on the motorbike vibration on the handlebar...if you ride an harley davidson, you will screw it more easily than a sportbike, what disrupt mechanical is the vibration and the spring register after a blow....some watch have a re-adjustment spring others (the most) don't. To he on the safe side, get a quartz

[@markbrigden8972]

A very interesting video. I was bought from my wife, a Breitling Chronomat A13048.12C316 Blue at the beginning of 1994. It was to be my Christmas present that year. Unfortunately on the way back from passing her motorbike test in Swansea she died in and accident. I found the watch wrapped along with other presents for other family members. I was riding a Kawasaki ZZR600 at the time. I am now riding a BMW GS650 Twin (800 ccc) and thousands of miles. The Breitling has for most part never been off my wrist. Motorbike, Car and Numerous times scuba diving. My watch is now 28 years young considered as old , but for me it has been a fabulous watch. Still ticking and so very special. It has never let me down.

[@adrianlw2750]

As a long-standing (many decades) mechanical automatic watch owner, I have never sought to take it off my wrist to protect the mechanicals against vibration. So cycling and high vibration/impact DIY jobs have been taken in the watches stride. No problems experienced. Interestingly, my smart watch is something I protect, but in that case, it is from the sun. Reasoning is that the battery and electronics do not like excessive heat.

[@alejandrodelvalle2790]

Voted for this twice! Glad you put it up. Always a pleasure.

[@o2i3u5klwerh8]

Nice choice of timepiece’s. I have some Orient as well and they are very good.

[@timbounds7190]

Its one of the mysteries of watch enthusiasts that they seem entirely ignorant of the advances in technology that have improved watches - many seem terrified of wearing their watches for even the slightest exertion of even getting Divers watches wet! It seems that there is some folk memory of watches from ancient times being more fragile that enthusiasts just can't shake off! I like watches (and motorcycling) and I like to wear a watch whatever I'm doing.

[@jmlupoludowicy1239]

Hi Stu, nice video! I voted for the watch video… than it lost. I’m glad you did it anyway! I never had a problem with any mechanical watch due to riding. I did once manage to get a Bell&Ross BR01 all effed up but through playing drums, not riding a motorcycle! I guess you have to be more careful about magnetism than about vibrations with mechanical watches, unless you happen to wear a modern Omega that is. Enjoy both hobbies and stay safe! Cheers!

[@voidifremoved]

I ride with a free wrist, I just find it more comfortable. Great video!

[@dickiedum]

Thanks for the video, I know you have done a lot of research on this. Interesting topic. My favourite watch that I own is an Automatic Seiko divers watch which I have owned for many years.

[@ianashton1593]

Shikoku make great watches, excellent choice !

[@michaelglynn2638]

Yes, I would wear it on the bike. Have a beautiful lawn but dare not tread on it! What a waste.

[@petermach8635]

Oh, yes ...... I got knocked off my Triumph by a running pedestrian at a crossing and had my hand run over by the concrete mixer next to me, fortunately at a very slow speed, but it bent the case of my Rolex where the strap met the case ......... it still works though.

[@dingo5208]

My seamaster was just serviced, cost me $1000 just to crack the back. $1200 all told. At that price you can see why it was serviced at 12 years., I am a working stiff and it is by far my most expensive watch. I have g shocks (budget models), citizens - steel and titanium and a few no names. Once my military service is up I may wear my Omega whe biking and shooting. Oh, what killed it? A watch winder. A good one. Letting it wind down probably would have prolonged that mainspring a while longer. On a side note, my dad has two dress Omega's, from the 60's, never serviced, still working!

[@fabienponchard2220]

I have been riding bikes including old Harley's wearing a Rolex, TAG Heuer or Omega Speedmaster and I never had any issues even if my AD was always making big eyes. My advice go for it. Bikes and watches are made to be used.

[@scottjeffries6826]

I have a Hamilton King Khaki and other mechanical/auto and ride a lot. I have always wondered the question that you covered. Great job!

[@sean.eidemiller]

I don't believe that it "damages" the watch. But, my Hamilton (Khaki Automatic) and my Seiko (SPB143) both go a bit wonky for a few days after I've ridden with them. The Hamilton (ETA 2824), which normally tracks at about +3-4s/day, will jump up to about +10s/day. The Seiko (6R35) will jump to around +16s/day from +5s/day. This is at freeway speed in the Bay Area (California), which is around 75-80mph. My Explorer, on the other hand, pretty much shrugs it off and stays stable at +1-2s/day regardless of what I do with it, which I put down to the significantly better shock absorption in the movement.

[@David-sb7vg]

All mine are ‘genuine’ Thai and Hong Kong jobs 😀 Bulletproof!!

[@Rosakru]

After a recent motorcycle accident, I've found myself unable to ride, leave the house, or even bother to wear my Rolex Explorer... It's for sale by the way.. 😉

[@geoffadams8912]

Nahthen from Lincoln Stu. Excellent video, injecting proportion and context into this issue. I've worn vintage watches dating back to the 1980s all the way to the present day on both my Chinese 125 cruiser and Triumph Bobber. All without any problems.

[@erosqing]

Have the same Seiko 5 military with black dial and also de small brother in green. Completely love those models ans change straps from fabric to leather, my favourite without a doubt!!! I've purchased a second hand Street Cup and love your content, very useful!!

[@bazthejazz]

In 1977, one of my colleagues (we both rode motorbikes to work) sauntered into the office with his left sleeve rolled up, so that we couldn't help but notice that he was wearing a new digital (Casio?) watch. I sneered at him & went back to my pocket (Casio?) calculator. For the last 27 years (and in the 70s), I have been wearing automatic watches - the current Seiko is nearly 20 years old & has never failed. No maintenance, no winding, no batteries. And still riding motorcycles to work (occasionally).

[@daveh1081]

Well researched and really informative uncle Stu.......bit of a history lesson there!👍👍

[@lesterbeedell9725]

I’m fascinated by clocks and watches, like you I find smart watches intrusive, telling me that I needed to stand up One of my ancestors was John Baddeley a famous clockmaker

[@toddfleury7324]

I’ve never worried about it while riding but I’ve accidentally forgotten my automatics while operating an angle grinder or reciprocal saw 😬. That probably doesn’t help the accuracy or longevity. Thanks for the calming distractions from our bonkers world.

[@brianwhittington5086]

You're probably right, i had a few lose their accuracy. I have just said the same about keeping one on when using workshop tools for accident repairs. Never for any prolonged periods, but even the digits on a digital would start to fade and not even a new battery would revive it.

[@ianboyd9723]

I have been using a seiko orange knight for over 10 years, worn day in, day out, I am a maintenance engineer, and use all kinds of tools, from grinders to concrete breakers, gains around 30 seconds a month.

[@kjeldpedersen666]

Hi Stuart I drive a RE Classic 500 and mostly use my birth year watch, 1959 Omega Speedmaster, when driving. Never had any issue with the watch, not even with the precision of it…

[@PeitoTakarai]

Hello. Im from Jakarta. Indonesia I ride motorcycle everyday to work and daily basis. And couple days ago I got Alba Automatic Watch from my birthday. First I was confused. Should I wear this watch everyday? or just keep it in the box. because im afraid its gonna damage my watch if I ride a motorcycle. especially in jakarta. there's always bumpy road and alot of speedbump. and after I watched this video. I feel relieved. and I think i will wear my automatic watch everyday while riding a motorcycle. Thank you so much sir. Thank you.

[@jetsonIFY]

I came for the watch. Stayed for the accent LOL!!

[@redfive5123]

I started riding motorcycles in the mids 70's wearing a Seiko 5 (that lasted for years until I lost it) on my left wrist. Vibrations caused no damage at all. I'd only suggest a shortening in cleaning intervals.

[@eddy9260]

Great video Stuart, I am not new to either hobby and always had the doubt, as of today I do not use my mechanical watches just to be safe, however as I spend my precious time when I am in my days off in a motorcycle, why not combine both pleasures, after all life is to enjoy, and both watches and motorcycles are not to baby them too much, they are meant to be used, that's what I think , greetings from Mexico.

[@kwackerman733]

Interesting video. I wear omegas but never on the bike. The only reason is that if I had a mishap they’re a lot of watch to lose. I love my automatic watches.

[@raycollington4310]

Thanks Stuart. I like the look of some of CWC military issue watches but I'm wary of acrylic watch glass and how easily it scratches. My collection still includes Rolex, Breitling & IWC etc. As a retiree I now look back and think I was silly to pay for that overpriced stuff. Our tastes change and I now only wear watches that cost a lot less. We're not in the boardroom trying to impress anyone. The Rolex never goes out as I don't want to be mugged. The stuff you show in this video are great watches. The cost of manufacture in relation to SRP is scary. One Swiss brand sells a divers watch for over a grand that has a £10 movement in it. The fool and his money are soon parted saying is so true. Thanks for the great video.

[@MIflyer]

Don’t be put off by acrylic crystals. Yes, they scratch… but they can easily be polished back to perfection in just a few minutes time. A mineral glass or sapphire crystal, on the other hand, while highly resistant to scratching, isn’t salvageable if you do manage to gouge it (and I have, once).

[@deasertmo3501]

My new watch is an Phoibos Apollon and im in love. Nice to know that i can take it on a ride

[@BobberRider]

I had a friend some 35 years ago. We drank in the same pub. He was Polish and he and his wife who was a Yorkshire girl were in their 80s. They kept quail for the eggs and invited me to their house one day to take (for free) the eggs that they could not consume themselves. When I entered their house (it was a council property, nothing flash) on the dining table he had clocks, watches, all manner of clockwork stuff that he was fixing. The table was like a tiny machine shop, with a pillar drill that was no more than a foot tall and more. I asked him where he learnt his trade and he said he had been a prison guard during the war and he'd learnt from a German in the watchtower overlooking the camp. At that point I felt it better not to dig any further. He had the kindest eyes I have ever seen and the eggs were excellent.

[@folksurvival]

I think Steve McQueen wore mechanicals while riding and racing bikes and cars.

[@Gary-Seven-and-Isis-in-1968]

As a hobbyist watchmaker myself, I can say you had everything covered here. Including raising the point that wearing an older watch on a Motorcycle is going to exacerbate any problems with wear that already exists. The counter balance in an old automatic will have a degree of sloppiness on the bearing, so any additional forces will add pressure and could cause the bearing to seize or even break up completely. But that would be a rare event and any newer automatic movement without initial play should be just fine. The flesh and bone of a human hand will soak up most vibration in any case. Before WW1 it was common to see Women wearing wrist watches, as it formed a part of their jewellery. Whereas it was both stylish and gentlemanly for a Man to wear a pocket watch "Peaky Blinders included". The transition from pocket to wrist for men, must have been a difficult one, even during wartime. After all, a wrist watch was considered to be a very feminine item at this time. Thanks for a fascinating upload. 👍

[@ry491]

I often wear a 50s Tissot automatic watch when riding . No problem at all . Like you I love watches but prefer the vintage variety . The shocks on a wrist when riding are "soft" shocks . Damage is caused by hitting a solid surface as in dropping on concrete etc . Wear your watch and enjoy it Stuart . Love the visual backgrounds to your videos . I enjoy them all ...

[@ianashton1593]

Have been wearing mechanical watches for years, the only digital I own is a Breitling Aerospace. Was an expat for 20 years and spent a lot of time in HongKong which is a great place for any watch enthusiast. Have bought, sold and swapped quite a few mechanical watches. My favourites are Breitling, Bell & Ross, Omega and IWC. Never owned a Rolex which I bitterly regret, being retired now I couldn’t afford one now, unless I sold quite a few of the other watches I own. Am by no means an expert and can only pass on personal experience. While I was working in HCMC Vietnam for 5 years I rode a scooter daily as it was the most efficient and cheapest way of getting around. The traffic is chaotic at best and the road surfaces pretty poor, it’s like a contact sport during rush hour. Over the five years I wore a selection of mechanical watches, both automatic and manual movements and never had any issues. As a keen scuba diver I’d always wear a mechanical watch as a back up to a dive computer. Although modern dive computers are very reliable, I have had failures and had to rely on a suitable mechanical watch to time safety stops and overall dive time. Always made sure they were rinsed in plenty of fresh water at the end of a dive to remove salt deposits and no issues at all. Personal opinion is despite being precision instruments they are extremely robust and will put up with a lot of abuse.

[@timeast6412]

Very educational video Stuart.I too am a mechanical watch fan,some wrist and some pocket watches. My problem has been finding good repairers and I have tried a few and wasted quite a bit of money on my mechanical self wind Omega (52 years old ,21st birthday present)and I have given up after three different repairers.My Grandfather’s WW1 trench watch after a repair is my daily wear and so far so good.My Dad’s Seiko quartz from the Eighties is unrepairable I am told, so sometimes it’s best to call it a day perhaps.

[@timeast6412]

@@christga100 hi,thanks for that,the last repairs were by an old fashioned firm in Wolverhampton who seemed pretty decent.

[@everythingandanything6405]

Like you a bit of a collector, only failure I have had is a Seiko snzg whilst working adjacent to high voltage electricity, assume magnetism, and a hard drop onto a concrete floor. Popped a new movement (nh35) into the snzg and still have it,. Generally wear a gshock for manual labour, only to prevent case damage to my autos.

[@yardenl1998]

Finally I have been waiting for this! Glad you could at last upload it Stu 🙏

[@imwatchingyou6113]

Yes l have a spot for clocks watches but most of all motorcycles started back in 1973 was a D.R. London and UK wide in all weathers still love motorcycles more so then cars ..l find boring just don't connect the way you do on a MC..another sub to your channel ..a worthy one 👍

[@timsatch9198]

I found this episode rather like your murder mystery. Totally different, but absolutely fascinating. You inspired me to look for my old automatic Citizen dive watch. Sadly it doesn't seem to function anymore. It is supposed to have a manual winder but didn't seem to work. Keep throwing these vidios in occasionally, I love them.

[@freddobbs2011]

Really glad you did this one anyway, even though it lost the vote before. Not surprised to learn you are a watch enthusiast. Maybe us bike enthusiasts like anything intricate and mechanical. I could see the name on your Orient and your Seiko, but I couldn't make it out on the watch you featured underwater. I have a haphazard small collection: My daily is a Garmin that has all this health info, but for special occasions I break out one of my two mechanicals. My grandfather's Gruen ('50s vintage) must be wound and has no shock or water resistance. Beautiful watch and quite small by today's standards for a man's watch. The other is a Seiko "Negroni" which is a glistening red color. A real looker in sunlight. I have been smitten by Ball watches--their utilitarian bent and their gas tubing thing for illumination. I may succumb at some point. As another commenter mentioned, your videos provide a great escape from the crazy world. Thanks again.

[@stuartfillingham]

Ah Gruen the original bond watch! The diving watch was another orient!

[@user-rf9me7xm1w]

Maybe it’s just me but I can’t see the point of constructing a watch using all those complicated cogs, levers and springs when a quartz crystal and a stepper motor produces a far superior and robust “motor” for a timepiece. I considered buying a Rolex but was put off by the stupendous servicing charges. I settled for a pre-bond Omega Seamaster quartz, which has been faultless for the last 30 years.

[@stuartfillingham]

like I said you either get or you don't! Clearly YOU don't!

[@user-rf9me7xm1w]

@@stuartfillingham Like I said, maybe it’s me, it obviously is !

[@stuartfillingham]

@@user-rf9me7xm1w 😂

[@barryvercueil2346]

Brilliant video. Awesome to see Hamilton and Orient. Two of my favorite brands.

[@kevinjones3900]

I don't wear a watch just here to support the channel on this one.

[@jimsadler8704]

An informative history lesson, Stu, and lots of sound advice. Many thanks.

[@pamelablake7647]

Mr T in me young days had a Bulova automatic in the 60s to 70s usually the watches were anti magnetic shock resistant and fully jeweled never had any problems Hop the info helps

[@anthonyprice5596]

Never really considered vibration whilst riding a bike to be a problem, however as a panel beater/car restorer I've always removed my watch to work as it might get hit by something or splattered with mig molten metal. I've had a Pulsar diver type watch since 1982 and apart from a few marks it keeps ticking. Cost me two weeks wages. Everyone thinks it's a Rolex but it's a budget Seiko, I'm thinking of a new watch, I like the Orients they look well made and much better finished, so I just need to get the wife on board.

[@Beanerds]

Great video Stewart ! . I like you have been into mechanical watches for 30 odd years and currently have about 40 made in Japan , Switzerland , Germany and China , yes I know China , but mate they have it sussed now , especially the ' Seagull ' brand . FF to 2 weeks ago and I got bitten by the ' Quartz ' bug again ,, but not any old throw away quartz , a $5000 aud. Grand Seiko SBGN003 GMT with the awesome 9F86 movement hand made by GS , they even grow their own Quartz crystal's , and scrap those that don't come up to par ! and make their own batteries , %100 Grand Seiko made ! The fit and finish of this sweet watch is amazing ! , 39mm with a JET black enamel dial , orange second hand arrow head and GMT printing and of course GS's legendary brushing and polishing . The best thing is its accuracy + or - 10 seconds per year ! most in the + or - 4 seconds annually , amazing watch ! ps. I have been riding for over 40 years , Triumph's , Norton's and BSA's twin's and singles that vibrated and have never had any of my mechanical's break through riding , Japanese multi's and now a CFMoto 650 and beautiful 650 Interceptor that are very smooth .

[@rosslevitates]

More importantly, will watch wearing damage the motorcycle!!!

[@HoratioBlogs]

A lovely video, thanks. I really liked the clock, and the motto under the dial of the Burton Constable Hall Clock. "Sans Mauvais Desire." Very good, the mottos on old clocks are always worth reading. The one on the dial of the Exeter Cathedral Astronomic Clock reads, 'PEREUNT ET IMPUTANTUR." ‘The hours pass/flee and are reckoned to our account’ or something like that.

[@philipsnelling709]

Seiko 5. First class movement. Get several for variety they are awsome.....

[@peteglanton9259]

I like watches and bikes. I’ve got an automatic citizen diver’s watch. Would it be ok when I’m on the bike? I’m sure it probably would be, but I usually wear a quartz or a G shock instead, one less thing to worry about. But I agree with what you’re saying. Citizen, Seiko, and Orient have been making everyday mechanical watches for a long time, they know what they’re doing.

[@stuartfillingham]

It will be fine!

[@dkwalters6977]

Santos Dumont, his friend Cartier made a wrist watch for him so he could accurately tell the time whilst flying in a competition in Paris. Apparently it was to dangerous to take his hands of the controls to take his pocket watch out to check the time. See Santos Dumont wings of madness if interested on KZbin. Enjoy watching your youtube Chanel and hope you sort your copyright problems out quickly

[@zedcharlie]

Well timed. I.m a casio (Don.t tell anyone) nut . But my first automatic seiko is on its way. When I was at school in the 70.s I had an automatic and cycled etc and never had any problems. Looking forward to the seiko. Possibly another huge rabbit hole. Like bikes. 5 of those now. 👍

[@jgordoncooper7112]

Back in the mid 1960's, I had a nice Omega watch that was nearly destroyed by my BSA 650 Spitfire Hornet. The Omega was built like a tank, but it had a flaw that made it incompatible with the Hornet. The one-piece case did not have removable back. the mechanics went in the front followed by the face, hands, and crystal, the crystal being a press fit into the case. The vibration on the hornet was heavy and the crystal backed out to the point that the stem took a flyer. luckily, I noticed the situation before I was left with an empty wrist case. I'm sure that would not happen with my INT650.

[@kealanmcateer124]

Good work Stewart, can I add to your excellent video, when wearing even a quartz chronograph, do not use a hammer or chop wood etc the shock this puts on the hundreds of moving parts in these finely put together watches, my neighbour who is a watchmaker says to buy a cheap digital watch for any shock related work , thanks again

[@cliveteague2115]

I have a lovely Homagé Lufbery Trench Watch. It wears very well. Now waiting for them to bring out a Homagé Dirty Dozen WW2 watch - not the film but the 12 companies who produced watches for the military. A very interesting subject - well I think so. I only wear automatic watches and have never had an issue with vibration damage. Great video. Thank you 👍

[@WidleyWesident]

So far, so good. My Rolex Milgauss, Omega Railmaster and Ulysses Nardin all work fine, even after a few years of riding a Royal Enfield Classic 500 and Moto Guzzi Griso. Even though the manual for the UN watch specifically states that it needs to be protected from impacts, golfing, etc…

[@MultiThunder1234]

Sadly, I don't wear watches anymore as my phone takes care of that for me, I'm a cost effective person and things must justify it's practical existence beyond just style. Waiting for the smartphone to incorporate a lighter 😂.

[@philtucker1224]

Hi Stuart! (It’s about time you did this episode 😊) watch yourself mate and let me know if you need a hand ha ha!

[@peteeldridge1783]

I seem to recall that riding a motorcycle assisted the winding mechanism on a mechanical watch. My £14 charity shop watch has been great - ok it’s got a battery however it reliably tells the time 🤣

[@henryhartley9993]

Nice one Stuart, never had an issue with any of my watches whilst riding my bikes...

[@stuartfillingham]

Good to hear

[@vick8914]

Hi all my watches are mechanical dating back to the early 1800s the one I use on the bike is a Detomaso Savona a very good time keeper

[@motechRevolution]

I have over 40 watches, I have reviews a few on my channel and I can say that non of them, my vintage or newer watches have ever been hurt or mistreated whilst riding any of my motorcycles. 😅 nice video though👍

[@dingo5208]

Having received a new Orient the manual specifically mentions not riding while wearing it. My Omega and Citizen eco drives do not mention it at all. My daily wear is an eco drive titanium.

[@folksurvival]

Because Citizen Eco-Drive is a quartz movement. Omega also make quartz watches so maybe your Omega is a quartz also?

[@dingo5208]

@@folksurvival my Omega is most definately not. Omega has not made a quartz watch in 25/30 years maybe longer.

[@folksurvival]

@@dingo5208 What do you mean? They currently make and sell many quartz watches. They have a large catalogue of them on their official website.

[@campbellmoodie9072]

Hamilton Khak mechanical field watch 38 mm . Best wind up watch ever, 20 years and stil part of my life.