Please explain watch orientation and regulation

[BillH2121]

As I've stated in previous posts, I'm new to the world of higher-end watches. I purchased my pre-owned Explorer II a couple months ago and noticed that it gained 2-4 secs a day on average. That was, and still is, no big deal to me. However, the other day, someone posted a Rolex information sheet that indicated you could regulate your watch yourself by choosing how you orient the watch position over-night or during storage. I reset my watch 3 days ago and have positioned my watch crown down the last 2 nights. Today I checked it and it does not appear to have gained or lost time. My question - how mechanically does watch orientation affect regulation? Thanks in advance for your help.

[Leodagan]

http://www.minus4plus6.com/regulation.htm

[BillH2121]

Originally Posted by Leodagan

http://www.minus4plus6.com/regulation.htm

Thank you - that's helpful! So, essentially, a function of gravity. I have to admit I was a bit skeptical but I can't argue with results!

[Magwitch]

With some watches I notice a difference in rate depending on position. That effect is not so great with Rolex. At least that's my experience.

[Tools]

Originally Posted by BillH2121

Thank you - that's helpful! So, essentially, a function of gravity. I have to admit I was a bit skeptical but I can't argue with results!

The laws of physics don't change, however, the newer movements with stronger springs and higher beat rates show very little variance with position compared with those of 20 years ago.

[The Libertine]

Originally Posted by Magwitch

With some watches I notice a difference in rate depending on position. That effect is not so great with Rolex. At least that's my experience.

Same. I noticed no discernible difference in timekeeping.

[faldoc]

In my Rolexes, position can make about 0.5 seconds a day difference.

I put crown down, vertical to slow my SubC down, and crystal up, flat for my Date to speed it up a bit.

Regardless, they're both very accurate. Amazing, really, for mechanical time pieces.

[Calatrava r]

It is a function of gravity and the amount of pull down on a gear when it is flat as opposed to when it is vertical.

[Etschell]

Originally Posted by Tools

The laws of physics don't change, however, the newer movements with stronger springs and higher beat rates show very little variance with position compared with those of 20 years ago.

Yeah was gonna say I thought new watches weren't affected by it.