What is an automatic watch winder used for?

12 de enero de 2025

Tiempo de lectura 5 min

What is an automatic watch winder used for?

An automatic watch winder is a tool designed to keep automatic watches running when they are not being worn. It replicates the natural movements of the wrist by performing programmed rotations, thus preventing the internal mechanism from stopping.

Why use a winder?

An automatic watch winder has several essential functions, especially for timepiece enthusiasts and collectors.

1. Maintain watch accuracy

When an automatic watch stops, it is necessary to wind it and readjust the time, date and sometimes other complications such as the calendar or moon phase. This can be a hassle, especially if the watch is complex.

The winder rotates regularly to simulate the natural movements of the wrist.
This ensures that the watch remains operational, always ready to be worn.

2. Preserve the internal mechanism

Automatic watches require continuous lubrication to protect their internal gears. When the watch is left inactive for too long, the lubricants can dry out or congeal, increasing wear on the parts.

The constant motion provided by a winder preserves the mechanisms by keeping the parts moving and ensuring an even distribution of lubricants.

3. Simplify collection management

For collectors with multiple watches, a watch winder is a handy tool. It keeps all watches functional and ready to use without having to wind or adjust them each time.

With a multi-watch winder, every piece in your collection is maintained, even if it is not worn regularly.

Is the winder essential?

The need for a watch winder depends on your usage and watch collection.

Yes, for complicated watches : Watches with complex features, such as a perpetual calendar or moon phase, require careful adjustments when stopped. A watch winder avoids this hassle.
Yes, for multiple collections : If you alternate between several watches, a winder makes it easier to manage them.
No, for watches worn daily : If you always wear the same watch, the natural movement of your wrist is enough to keep its mechanism active.

How does a winder work?

A watch winder uses a motor that makes programmed rotations to keep the watch's internal rotor moving. These rotations mimic the movement of the human wrist and prevent the watch from stopping.

Programmed Rotations : Most winders allow you to choose between clockwise, counterclockwise, or bi-directional cycles, depending on your watch's specifications.
Adjustable Cycles : Modern models offer the ability to adjust the number of revolutions per day (TPD), typically between 600 and 1500, to accommodate specific calibers.

How to choose a winder?

When choosing a watch winder, several criteria must be taken into account:

1. Compatibility

Check your watch's technical specifications (TPD and required rotation direction) to ensure the winder is suitable.
Opt for a universal model if you have several watches with varying needs.

2. Capacity

For a single watch, a compact winder is sufficient.
If you have a collection, consider a multi-watch winder that can accommodate 4, 6, or even more pieces.

3. Design and materials

Modern watch winders are designed to be displayed. Choose a model that shows off your watches and fits in with your interior.
Materials such as wood, leather or metal provide an elegant and durable touch.

4. Additional options

Quiet motor : Ideal if the winder is placed in a bedroom or office.
Power : Some run on mains power, others on battery power, or both for more flexibility.

Advantages and limitations of a winder

Benefits

Keeps watches always ready for use.
Protects internal mechanisms by preventing wear due to immobility.
Simplifies the management of complicated watches and multiple collections.

Boundaries

A quality winder can be a significant initial investment.
It is not essential for those who only own one or two watches and wear them regularly.

Conclusion

An automatic watch winder is a practical and aesthetic accessory designed to preserve the precision and longevity of your timepieces. If you own a collection or a complicated watch, it is a valuable investment to simplify their maintenance and ensure that they are always ready to wear.

👉 Looking for the perfect watch winder? Discover our selection of the best automatic watch winders to maintain and enhance your timepieces.

FAQ

What is a watch winder used for?

An automatic watch winder is designed to keep the internal mechanism of your watches moving when you are not wearing them. It simulates the natural movements of the wrist to:

Maintain accuracy : Prevent your watch from stopping, ensuring constant adjustment of the time, date and complications (moon phase, calendar, etc.).
Protect the mechanism : Ensure uniform distribution of internal lubricants, thus reducing wear on components.
Simplify use : Eliminate the need to manually wind your watches after a period of inactivity.

The winder is therefore an essential tool for lovers and collectors of automatic watches.

How to maintain a winder?

To ensure the durability and performance of your winder, it is important to maintain it regularly:

Cleaning : Wipe the exterior surface with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. Avoid chemicals that may damage materials such as leather or wood.
Protection against humidity : Place the winder in a dry place away from sources of humidity to avoid any risk of deterioration.
Checking the power supply : If your winder is battery operated, replace them regularly to avoid malfunction. If the power supply is mains, check that the cable is in good condition.
Engine Maintenance : Although modern engines are built to last, it is recommended that you consult a professional if you notice a drop in performance or unusual noises.

Simple but regular maintenance will keep your winder operating efficiently for years.

Which watch winders are suitable for all watches?

Most modern watch winders are designed to be compatible with a wide range of automatic watches. However, here are a few things to check to ensure universal compatibility:

Rotation Types : Make sure the winder offers all three rotation modes (clockwise, counterclockwise, bi-directional) to accommodate the specific requirements of each caliber.
Rotation Cycles (TPD) : Choose a winder with adjustable cycles (600 to 1500 revolutions per day), which covers the majority of automatic watches.
Adjustable Stand : An adjustable cushion stand ensures that the winder can accommodate watches of varying sizes and weights.
Anti-magnetic protection : Prevents any interference with the internal components of your watches.

At My Watch Accessories , our watch winders are designed to fit all automatic watches, from the simplest to the most complex.

Do watch winders damage automatic watches?

No, a quality winder will not damage your watches. On the contrary, it helps maintain them by keeping the mechanism active and the lubricants distributed. However, it is important to:

Use a winder that meets the technical specifications of your watches (adapted rotations and cycles).
Do not overuse the winder if you do not wear certain watches for long periods of time, to avoid unnecessary wear.

A properly adjusted and moderately used winder will extend the life of your watches.

Is a watch winder necessary if I only have one automatic watch?

If you wear your automatic watch daily, a winder may not be essential. However, it becomes useful if:

You regularly switch between several watches.
Your watch has complex complications, such as a perpetual calendar, which require laborious adjustments after each stop.
You want to preserve the accuracy and durability of your watch even when it is not being worn.

A watch winder is particularly recommended for collectors, but it remains a practical solution for anyone who owns an automatic watch.