Does using a watch winder make sense?
Automatic watches are masterpieces of watchmaking. Their mechanical movements are wound by the movements of your wrist. However, if the watches are not moved for a long period of time, they stop.
A watch winder (sometimes also called a watch turner or watch turner) is an electromechanical device that sets automatic watches in motion at certain time intervals and thus ensures continuous running.
But does it really make sense to use one? To answer this question, we look at the advantages and disadvantages and analyze its usefulness in detail.
The advantages of a watch winder
Convenience:
A watch winder keeps your automatic watches in constant operation so that you can wear them at any time without having to wind or reset them manually. Especially with more complex movements, for example with a moon phase display or perpetual calendar, a watch winder can save a lot of adjustment work.
Protecting the watch:
The continuous movement prevents certain passive signs of aging, which can extend the life of the watch.
Presentation:
High-quality watch winders are not only functional, but also serve as attractive storage and presentation pieces for your watch collection.
Increase in value:
For collectors, a well-adjusted watch winder can increase the value of their automatic watches because it keeps the watches in optimal condition.
The disadvantages of a watch winder
Costs:
Watch winders can be expensive, especially models with multiple storage spaces and special functions. Special materials or complex processing can also drive the price of a watch winder significantly higher. Very cheap models often stop working quickly due to inferior materials or principles or are annoying due to complicated operation. However, solid technology and good workmanship can also be found in the price range between €200 and €500. Multiple winders are naturally correspondingly more expensive.
Wear and tear:
Continuously moving the watch can lead to greater wear and tear on the mechanical parts. But this also depends on the movement and how often you wear it. Especially if you wear a watch regularly but not all the time, the winder can help you avoid having to reset the watch every time.
Power consumption:
In principle, the power consumption of a watch winder is very low. When operated via a power supply, it is negligible. When operated with batteries, you can expect a battery life of several months. Good watch winders indicate the upcoming battery change with a corresponding display.
Space requirement:
The space requirement naturally depends on the size and number of individual winders. Modularly coupled watch winders are the most economical in terms of space and can be best adapted to local conditions. In any case, watch winders require additional space, but can also be seen as a technical gem in the living room.
The "ritualized act of winding" is eliminated:
Some customers tell us that they rarely wear their watch and mostly on special occasions. During such a special occasion, they then enjoy setting and winding the watch by hand before putting it on. Burden or pleasure - everyone can answer this question for themselves.
Analysis of usefulness
Convenience and time saving
One of the biggest advantages of a watch winder is convenience. If you have a collection of automatic watches and regularly wear different watches, it can be annoying to wind and set each watch manually. A watch winder takes this work off your hands and ensures that each watch is ready for use at any time. This is particularly useful for watches with complex complications such as perpetual calendars, which are very time-consuming to set.
Protecting and caring for the movement
Another significant advantage is the continuous movement that keeps the movement moving and ensures that it functions smoothly. Watch winders can help extend the life of the watch by ensuring that the lubricant is permanently evenly distributed throughout the movement, thus minimizing wear.
Aesthetics and presentation
For many watch lovers, a watch winder is not only a practical device, but also a stylish presentation piece. High-quality models are often elegantly designed and can serve as a decorative element in your home that showcases your collection.
Cost and resource consumption
The downside of these advantages is the cost. High-quality watch winders are often expensive and can cost several hundred to thousands of euros. In addition, they require electricity, which brings additional running costs and an impact on the environment. Another
Our conclusion on use
Using a watch winder for automatic watches can be very useful, especially for watch lovers and collectors who own several watches and change them regularly. Convenience, time savings and protection of the movement are strong arguments in favor of a watch winder. However, the cost and space required should also be taken into account. Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs and priorities. For many watch enthusiasts, the advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages, and they appreciate the additional care and presentation of their valuable timepieces.
