Everything you need to know about automatic watch winders

Definition and role of a winder

An automatic watch winder is a device designed to keep the mechanism of a watch moving when it is not being worn. Unlike quartz watches that run on a battery, automatic watches draw their power from the natural movements of the wrist. When they remain still for too long, they stop, losing their accuracy and requiring the time and calendar to be reset.

The main role of a winder is therefore to simulate these movements by performing specific rotations that keep the mechanism active. This allows:

• Maintain the accuracy of time setting and complications (such as the calendar or moon phase).
• Extend the life of internal components by maintaining constant lubrication.
• Eliminate the need to manually wind watches, which is especially useful for multiple collections.

A watch winder is much more than just a practical accessory: it protects the investment that an automatic watch represents, by facilitating its daily use.

How does an automatic watch winder work?

The operation of a watch winder is based on an integrated motor that rotates in programmed cycles. These movements mimic those of the human wrist and allow the watch's internal rotor to wind its mainspring, thus maintaining its operation.

Here are the main technical aspects of a winder:

• Rotation types :

  • Clockwise: The watch runs clockwise.
  • Counterclockwise: The watch runs counterclockwise.
  • Bidirectional: The watch alternates between the two directions.
    These options ensure compatibility with the mechanisms of most automatic watches.

• Rotation cycles (TPD - Revolutions per day) :
  The winder is programmed to perform a certain number of revolutions per day, usually between 400 and 800 TPD. This parameter is crucial to adapt to the specific needs of each watch's caliber.

• Quiet motor :
  Modern models are equipped with ultra-quiet motors, allowing discreet use in any space.

• Antimagnetic protection :
  Some winders include protection against magnetic fields, which can affect the accuracy of watches.

An automatic watch winder is not just an aesthetic accessory: it plays a key role in preserving and optimizing your timepieces. Here are the main benefits it offers.

Maintain accuracy and prevent your watch from stopping

Automatic watches operate using an internal rotor that is activated by wrist movements. When the watch is not worn for an extended period of time, its mechanism stops. This causes the watch to lose its accuracy, requiring manual resetting of the time, date, or complications such as the moon phase or perpetual calendar.

With a winder, you avoid these interruptions:

• Continuous Operation : The winder replicates the natural movements of the wrist by performing programmed rotations, ensuring your watch remains operational.
• Accuracy preserved : Time and complex settings remain accurate, even if you switch between multiple watches.
• Simplicity and practicality : You save time by not having to manually readjust your watch every time you wear it.

Extend the life of internal mechanisms

Automatic watches are horological works of art, made up of delicate mechanisms that require constant lubrication to function properly. When the watch remains stationary for too long:

• Internal lubricants can seize or disintegrate, increasing wear on components.
• Gears and springs are put under excessive stress when they have to be put back into motion after a long period of inactivity.

The winder acts as a preservation tool:

• Regular lubrication : By keeping the rotor in motion, the winder ensures uniform distribution of lubricants, preventing their degradation.
• Reduced wear : By avoiding prolonged shutdowns, it limits the risks of premature deterioration of mechanical parts.
• Increased durability : Your watches maintain their efficiency and precision, even after years of use.

A practical solution for watch collectors and enthusiasts

For enthusiasts who own multiple automatic watches, managing and maintaining each piece can become a challenge. A watch winder makes this task much easier:

• Ready to wear : You can keep multiple watches ready to wear at any time, without having to wind or adjust them.
• Simplified Management : Multi-watch winders make it effortless to keep an entire collection in perfect working order.
• Aesthetic storage : With their elegant designs, the winders add a touch of sophistication to your living space or dressing room while highlighting your pieces.

Automatic watch winders come in several types, each catering to specific needs. Whether you own a single watch or a large collection, there is a winder to suit your requirements. Here is an overview of the main types available on the market.

Single watch winders: for one or two watches

Single winders are designed for watch lovers who own one or two pieces.

Main features:

• Limited capacity : Ideal for one or two watches.
• Compact design : Easy to integrate into a bedroom, office or dressing room.
• Affordable Price : An accessible option for those new to watch accessories.
• Examples of use: Perfect for everyday watches or to keep an automatic watch with complications running.

Why choose this type?
A simple winder offers a functional and economical solution to maintain the accuracy of your watches without requiring a lot of space.

Multi-watch winders: suitable for large collections

Multi-watch winders are designed for collectors who own multiple automatic watches.

Main features:

• Extended Capacity : Stores and holds 2 to 24 watches.
• Advanced functionality : Some models allow individual settings for each watch (rotations and cycles).
• Aesthetic design : Often made with high-end materials like wood or leather, to fit into an elegant interior.
• Examples of use: Ideal for organizing a collection and keeping all watches ready to use.

Why choose this type?
These winders are ideal for collectors who want a practical and aesthetic solution for managing their watches.

Safes: protection and security

Watch winder safes combine functionality and security, providing an ideal solution for protecting your valuable watches.

Main features:

• Enhanced security : Incorporate fingerprint, password or key locking systems.
• Variable capacity : Available for 6 to 24 watches or more.
• Sturdy Construction : Made with materials like steel, solid wood or PU leather, for optimal protection against theft.
• Examples of use: Perfect for luxury watch collectors or security-conscious enthusiasts.

Why choose this type?
A watch winder safe not only protects your watches from stopping, but also from theft or unauthorized handling.

Connected watch winders: new technologies at the service of watches

Connected watch winders are at the cutting edge of innovation, combining technology and practicality.

Main features:

• App Control : Set rotation cycles and monitor your watch status from your smartphone.
• Full customization : Fine-tune settings for each watch to suit its specific needs.
• Modern Elegance : Often incorporates minimalist designs with high-end finishes.
• Examples of use: Ideal for technology enthusiasts and demanding collectors.

Why choose this type?
Connected watch winders offer smart and practical management of your watches, while adding a touch of modernity.