Stem

A thin metal rod that connects the crown to the internal movement of a watch. The stem allows the wearer to interact with the movement by enabling functions such as winding the mainspring, setting the time, and adjusting complications.

Key aspects of the stem:

• Functionality:
  • Turning the stem winds the mainspring in manual wind and automatic watches.
  • Pulling the stem out engages different positions for setting the time or date.
• Design: The stem is precisely engineered to fit securely into the movement while being durable enough to withstand frequent use.
• Components: Often paired with a clutch mechanism that enables smooth transitions between functions, such as winding and time-setting.

In some watches, particularly those with water resistance, the stem works with a screw-down crown to maintain a watertight seal, enhancing durability. The stem is a critical yet understated component, bridging the external crown with the intricate internal mechanics of the movement.