A watch winder is a device that ensures your automatic watch continues to run even when you are not wearing it. Other watch enthusiasts find it a useful aid, whereas others believe it is not essential. This guide will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of watch winders, so you can determine whether you really need a watch winder.
What is a Watch Winder?
A watch winder is a small device designed to ensure that your automatic watch remains accurate when it is not in use. Automatic watches use the movement of the wrist to power the watch. When left inactive for a long time, they tend to become inactive. A watch winder intervenes to simulate the wrist movement. Keeping the watch wound.
Watch winders are typically housed in elaborate boxes or cases that run slowly. They are able to carry a watch, or several watches, according to your requirement. To some individuals, they are viewed as a luxury instrument, whereas others regard them as a necessary tool for watch maintenance.
Watch winders are also available in various types. Single models are ideal for owners who only have one auto timepiece, whereas multi-watch winders are used by collectors. More sophisticated models enable you to adjust settings, including turns per day (TPD) and the direction of rotation.
The Case for Watch Winders (Pros)
Convenience You will Appreciate
Convenience is one of the reasons why people use watch winder. In case you have a bunch of watches, it may be exhausting to turn every one of them off and then turn it on again. A watch winder ensures your watch is kept ticking, meaning that you do not need to realign the time and date with every instance you pick up the watch.
This will be of great use particularly when you change your watches frequently. Rather than using time to set them you just take one out of the window, put it on, and go out.
Guaranteeing Complicated Watches
Other automatic watches have complex complications like moon phases, perpetual calendars or GMT. It may be complex and time consuming to reset these features manually. A watch winder makes sure that those complications remain precise.
For example, a perpetual calendar watch requires special attention when it reaches the end of its cycle. You will not have to go through such a process with a winder. This not only saves time but also stress.
Storage and Display Value
Watch winder are not only handy, but also appear magnificent. Others are in beautiful wooden or leather cases featuring glass displays. They are not only your warehouse, but also a showcase for your collection.
A winner can be the best choice if you want to showcase your watches. It is a device that protects your timepiece from dust and, at the same time, serves as a decorative item in your room.
Lubrication and Movement Health (Myth vs. Reality)
Others believe that watch winders are used to evenly distribute the oils in a watch. Though newer-day lubricants do not always dry out easily, frequent movement can prevent rigidity. With that said, you do not really require a watch winder as the only lubricant. It is more of convenience and functionality than mechanical health. However, if you prefer to keep your watch in continuous motion, a winder will take on the task.
The Case Against Watch Winders (Cons)
High Cost
The cost of a good watch winder may be high. The simplest models are less expensive; however, those with adjustable parameters and a higher quality of build are considerably more expensive. When you have only one or two automatic watches, there may not be a sense of value in the price.
Potential Overuse
The other issue is unjustifiable wear. Your watch does not even have to operate 24/7. The winding may be constant and therefore, more parts may be used. Most of the modern watches can do it, but this is an aspect to be remembered.
Space and Nice Issues
Multi-watch units also consume space, including watch winders. Others are also noisy when in operation. You could find the noise of constant rotation in your bedroom annoying if you intentionally keep one in your bedroom.
Not Essentials for Everyone
You may never need to use a watch winder if you wear your watch every day. Your wrist has sufficient natural movements to maintain it. For casual users or those with a single timepiece, it is sufficient that it be manually wound a few times a day.
Who Actually Needs a Watch Winder?
Not all watch owners need to actually have a watch winder. It varies according to the number of watches one has, the frequency of use, and the kind of complications they have.
You may want to purchase a watch winder when you:
- Have several automatic watches and wear them frequently. When you change the timepieces, a winder will never leave you alone in resetting the time, date, etc, whenever you wish to wear any of them.
- Wear complex watches, such as perpetual calendars, the GMT, or the moonphase. These watches are harder to set when they have stopped. A winder will assist in maintaining them precisely and ensure they are always ready to use without additional work.
- Looking for a creative way to store and display. Most watch winders have an elegant design that doubles as a display case. They store your watches, dust-free, and in excellent condition.
Conversely, when you wear a watch every day, you might not have much use of the winder. It is already powered by your natural wrist movement. Similarly, when you have only one or two simple automatic watches, you will not need to wind them manually and use them so often. A good watch box may be a better option than spending money on a winder in this case.
Tips for Choosing a Watch Winder
Find Adjustable Settings
Adjustability is the most significant aspect of a watch winder. Various watches have various turns per day (TPD) and rotation directions. A nice winder must allow you to adjust both of them to suit your watch.
Take into Account Single vs. Multi-Winders
One window is sufficient in case you have an automatic watch. Multiple pieces may suit collectors who would like to have a multi-watch unit. All you have to do is to keep in mind that multi-watch winders occupy more space and are more expensive.
Quality and Durability
You should always opt for a winder made of a hard material and a powerful motor. Your watch can get ruined with a cheap winder. Find reputable brands with a good working experience and high durability.
Extra Features
Others are equipped with extras such as LED lights, security locks, or silent motors. Although optional, these may provide comfort and style to your watch substrate.
Alternative Options to a Watch Winder
Manual Winding
You may always turn your watch by hand. A majority of automatic watches can be manually wound by using the crown. It is fast and easy unless you mind doing it on a regular basis.
Wearing the Watch Regularly
The simplest solution is to wear your watch frequently. When you move naturally, it is automatically running and does not require any gadgets.
Affordable Storage Choices
A basic watch box or case would suffice; otherwise, you need a watch with a winding feature. They protect your timepiece against dust and scratches at a price less than that of a winder.
Conclusion
Watch winders are convenient, helpful in terms of storage, and beneficial to collectors, but not a necessary item for everyone. They are logical when you have various watches or various timepieces, but they can be skipped by casual users.
At LEITZEIT, we believe that your watch deserves the best care. That is why we offer guides and resources to help you make informed choices regarding your timepieces. You can select a watch winder, or you can keep to the manual one, but we are here to help you.
Are you interested in learning more about watches and accessories? Visit LEITZEIT for reliable tips and answers to your questions.