How a Watch Winder Works

Automatic or self-winding watches contain an internal weighted rotor, a semi-circular component that rotates freely within the watch. The natural motion of your arm causes the rotor to swing back and forth, winding the mainspring throughout the day. This self-winding system is very efficient when the watch is being worn and completely inert when it is not. That's where an automatic watch winder comes in.

Inside every watch winder is at least one motorized watch holder that slowly turns, engageing the rotor within the watch. This ensures that your watch remains wound and operating accurately when you are not wearing it. Automatic watch winders are available in a wide variety of sizes and styles, but all share this one core component.

Top 3 Features to Look for in a Watch Winder

Motor quality: Since it is the heart of every watch winder, the motor is the largest single indicator of a watch winder's quality and, quite often, the largest contributor to price. Higher-priced winders—those in the $100-plus range—generally use near-silent motors. (You won't hear anything unless you sleep with one on your nightstand next to your ear.) These motors are also manufactured to a high level of precision and built to last for many years. Lower-priced models can be found for as little as $30 and may seem attractive at first. Just like your watches, your winder is an investment. The long-term benefits of a high-quality motor will far outweigh the short-term cost savings of a cheap watch winder.

Multiple motion settings: Most modern automatic watches contain two ratchets that enable the rotor to wind the mainspring when moving either clockwise or counterclockwise. Thus, a single-motion winder will keep most watches wound and ready to wear, but at a cost. On your wrist, the automatic watch rotor goes through a variable range of motion and spreads wear evenly across all components of the system. If you keep your watch in a winder that only turns the rotor in one direction, you will be placing a greater percentage of wear on only one part of the system. Look for a watch winder that allows you to select the direction of rotation or, better yet, can vary the direction automatically.

Integrated timer: There was a time when automatic watches could be over wound, damaging the mainspring or resulting in unreliable operation. While this problem has been solved by the slipping clutches found in modern self-winding watches, it is still a good idea to limit the amount of time your watch is being wound when not in use. A built-in timer in the watch winder ensures your watch is properly wound without causing excessive wear to the internal mechanical systems.

Who Needs a Watch Winder?

If you own just one automatic watch and wear it daily, you don't need a watch winder to keep your watch working properly. Your watch will be wound enough to operate throughout the night and be ready to wear again in the morning.

If, however, you don't wear your watch every day or you have a collection with more than one automatic watch, you should consider buying a watch winder. It will ensure your watch or watches are always ready to wear and prevent performance issues caused by long or frequent periods of inactivity.

A Watch Winder for Every Watch Is the Wrong Way to Go

Unless you are particular about matching your winder brand to your watch brand, you do not need a winder specifically designed for each watch. A high-quality watch winder with rotation and time adjustment will work just fine with Rolex, Breitling, Tag Heuer, Omega, and other high-end watches. It will also save you money you can put toward the next addition to your collection.

Get a Watch Winder That Measures Up to Your Watches

Your automatic watches are equal part investment and work of art. As such, they deserve a watch winder that both preserves their value and enhances their beauty. In addition to better motors and more control options, higher-quality watch winders are constructed of higher-grade materials and can double as handsome display cases that show off your collection.

One, Two, Four or More—Choose the Right Size Watch Winder for You

If you have just a single automatic watch or even two that you swap out for daily use, you can make due with a single watch winder. If you already have two or more watches in your collection or plan on adding more, a winder with two or four watch holders is a better choice. You can find watch winders with more than four watch holders, but these can be too large to comfortably fit on a dresser or shelf. If your collection includes more than four watches, you may find it more convenient and more aesthetically pleasing to split your watches between multiple watch winders.

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