If you own an automatic watch, you’ve likely heard about watch winders. These handy devices promise to keep your watch ticking even when you’re not wearing it. But what exactly are watch winders, and do you really need one? In this guide, we’ll explore everything about watch winders, from their purpose to the best options on the market. Whether you’re a seasoned watch collector or a curious beginner, this article will provide all the answers you need.
What is a Watch Winder?
A watch winder is a device designed to keep automatic watches wound when they are not being worn. Automatic watches rely on the movement of your wrist to power the mechanism inside. When left idle, the watch may stop working after its power reserve runs out, typically in 24–72 hours.
A watch winder solves this problem by mimicking the motion of your wrist, gently rotating the watch to keep it wound. This ensures that your watch remains accurate and ready to wear at any time.
How Does a Watch Winder Work?
Watch winders work by rotating the watch in specific directions and at controlled speeds. This movement activates the rotor inside the automatic watch, which in turn winds the mainspring, the component that stores energy to power the watch.
Most watch winders allow you to adjust settings such as:
- Direction: Clockwise, counterclockwise, or bi-directional.
- Turns Per Day (TPD): The number of rotations needed to keep the watch fully wound.
These settings ensure compatibility with various watch brands, as different watches may have unique winding requirements.
Benefits of Using a Watch Winder
Investing in a watch winder offers several advantages, especially for automatic watch enthusiasts. Here are some key benefits:
- Convenience
- A watch winder keeps your watch running even when not in use, so you won’t need to reset the time or date every time you wear it.
- Longevity of Your Watch
- By keeping the watch mechanism in motion, a winder can help reduce the risk of internal lubricants drying out, potentially extending the life of your timepiece.
- Preserving Complications
- High-end watches often come with complex features like perpetual calendars, moon phases, or world time. These features can be tricky to reset. A winder keeps them accurate.
- Display and Storage
- Many watch winders double as attractive display cases, showcasing your watch collection while keeping them safe and dust-free.
Do You Need a Watch Winder?
While watch winders are useful, they’re not essential for everyone. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- Essential for collectors: If you own multiple automatic watches, a winder can save time and effort.
- Optional for occasional wearers: If you wear your watch regularly, your wrist movement is usually enough to keep it running.
- Not needed for quartz watches: Watch winders are only for automatic watches. Quartz watches run on batteries and don’t need winding.
Types of Watch Winders
Watch winders come in various styles, sizes, and price ranges. Let’s explore the different types:
Single Watch Winders
Perfect for owners of one or two watches, these are compact and budget-friendly.
Multi-Watch Winders
Designed for collectors, these can hold and wind multiple watches simultaneously. Some models accommodate up to 20 watches!
Luxury Watch Winders
These high-end winders are crafted with premium materials like wood, leather, and glass. They often feature advanced settings and make an elegant addition to any room.
Portable Watch Winders
Lightweight and battery-powered, these winders are ideal for travelers.
How to Choose the Right Watch Winder
When selecting a watch winder, consider the following factors:
Compatibility
Ensure the winder supports the specific winding direction and TPD requirements of your watch. For instance, Rolex watches typically require bi-directional winding at around 650 TPD.
Build Quality
Look for durable materials and smooth motors to avoid unnecessary wear on your watch. Cheap winders can sometimes damage the mechanism.
Noise Level
Choose a quiet motor if you plan to place the winder in a bedroom or office.
Power Options
Some winders are plug-in only, while others offer battery power for flexibility.
Design and Aesthetics
Since a watch winder often doubles as a display case, pick one that matches your personal style and home decor.
Price
Watch winders range from under £50 to over £1,000. Set a budget and compare options to find the best value for your needs.
Top Watch Winder Brands to Consider
Wolf
Known for precision engineering and sleek designs, Wolf offers a wide range of high-quality watch winders.
Orbita
An American brand renowned for its innovative winding technology, Orbita’s winders are durable and reliable.
Barrington
A UK-based brand, Barrington provides affordable yet stylish watch winders with customizable settings.
Rapport London
With over a century of experience, Rapport London specializes in luxury winders crafted from fine materials.
Versa
Perfect for budget-conscious buyers, Versa winders deliver solid performance without breaking the bank.
How to Use a Watch Winder
Using a watch winder is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Determine Your Watch’s Requirements: Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for TPD and winding direction.
- Set the Winder: Adjust the settings on the winder to match your watch’s needs.
- Place the Watch: Secure the watch on the holder, ensuring it’s balanced and snug.
- Start the Winder: Turn on the device and let it do its job. Most winders operate on a programmed schedule to avoid over-winding.
Common Myths About Watch Winders
- Watch winders can over-wind a watch.
- Truth: Modern automatic watches have built-in mechanisms to prevent over-winding, and quality winders use programmed cycles to avoid excessive winding.
- Watch winders are bad for watches.
- Truth: A properly calibrated winder is safe and can even extend the lifespan of your watch.
- All watches need a winder.
- Truth: Quartz and manually wound watches do not benefit from a winder.
Caring for Your Watch Winder
To keep your watch winder in top condition, follow these tips:
- Clean Regularly: Wipe the exterior and interior with a soft cloth to remove dust.
- Avoid Overloading: Use the winder only for the intended number of watches.
- Store Properly: Keep the winder in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or humidity.
Recommended Watch Winders for 2024
Here are some top-rated watch winders to consider:
Wolf Viceroy Single Winder
- Price: Around £300
- Features: Quiet motor, customizable settings, luxurious design.
Aevitas Single Winder
- Price: Around £195
- Features: Compact, affordable, multiple color options.
Orbita Sparta Bold
- Price: Around £400
- Features: Battery-powered, durable, bi-directional winding.
Rapport London Perpetua III
- Price: Around £1,000
- Features: Premium wood finish, advanced controls, ultra-quiet motor.
Versa Automatic Winder
- Price: Around £50
- Features: Budget-friendly, simple operation, reliable performance.
Conclusion
A watch winder is more than just a functional device—it’s an investment in the care and longevity of your automatic watch. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual wearer, the right watch winder can save time, preserve your watch’s accuracy, and enhance your collection’s display.
When shopping for a watch winder, prioritize compatibility, quality, and aesthetics to find a model that suits your needs. With proper use and maintenance, a watch winder can be a valuable companion for your automatic timepieces.