There's a particular frustration every automatic watch owner knows: that sinking feeling when you reach for your favorite watch, the one you haven't worn in a few days, only to find it has stopped ticking. Now you must reset the time, perhaps the date, and if it's a complicated watch with a moon phase or perpetual calendar, well, that's an even bigger chore.
When an automatic watch sits still for an extended period, the lubricants within the movement can start to thicken and congeal. This isn't ideal for the delicate mechanics inside. Think of it like a car engine sitting unused for months; the oil begins to lose its viscosity, and when you finally start it up, there's increased wear and tear. Similarly, a watch that's frequently allowed to stop and then restarted can experience premature wear on its components.
This is why you need a watch winder. These gadgets are designed to keep your automatic watches ticking and ready to wear. Let's delve into what a watch winder is and how it works.
What is a Watch Winder?
Simply put, a watch winder is a device that keeps your automatic watch wound when you're not wearing it. It mimics the motion of your wrist, ensuring your watch maintains accurate time. This is particularly useful if you have multiple automatic watches or if you rotate your collection. It saves you the hassle of resetting the time and date every time you switch watches.
How Does it Work?
The core function is straightforward. A small motor inside the winder gently rotates the watch, winding the mainspring. This keeps the watch running. However, there are a few key factors to understand.
- Rotation Direction: Different watches require different rotation directions. Some need clockwise, others counter-clockwise, and some a combination of both.
- Turns Per Day (TPD): This is the number of rotations the winder makes in a 24-hour period. It's important to set this correctly. Too few turns, and your watch might stop. Too many, and you risk over-winding, which can damage the mechanism.
- Intermittent Operation: Most quality winders don't run continuously. They operate on a cycle, rotating for a set period and then pausing. This simulates the natural movement of your wrist, preventing over-winding.
Why Use a Watch Winder?
While some might consider it a luxury, a watch winder offers several practical benefits:
- Convenience: It eliminates the need to manually set the time and date, allowing you to grab your watch and go.
- Maintenance: Keeping your watch running helps circulate the lubricants within the movement, preventing them from congealing and potentially extending the watch's lifespan.
- Preservation of Complications: Watches with complex features like perpetual calendars or moon phases can be difficult to reset. A winder keeps these complications accurate.
- Display: Many watch winders also serve as display cases, showcasing your watches. This is where our Holme & Hadfield display cases come in. We design them to not only store but also display your watches with care.
Choosing the Right Watch Winder
When selecting a watch winder, consider these factors:
- Watch Compatibility: Ensure the winder is compatible with your watch's required rotation direction and TPD. You can find this information in your watch's manual or online.
- Build Quality: Look for a winder made from durable materials with a reliable motor.
- Size and Capacity: Choose a winder that can accommodate the number of watches you need to wind.
- Aesthetics: If you plan to display your watches, choose a winder that complements your collection. Our Holme & Hadfield watch winder is designed with a modern aesthetic, combining functionality and style.
- Noise: Opt for a quiet winder that won't disturb your environment.
Holme & Hadfield and Your Watch Collection
At Holme & Hadfield, we understand the importance of proper watch care. That's why we've poured our hearts into developing a watch winder that truly caters to the needs of watch collectors.
We listened to you, our community and engaged with over 4,000 watch enthusiasts worldwide. It took over two years and more than 10 design iterations for us to reach the final design that ticked all your (and our) boxes).
What does that mean for you? It means a watch winder that's not just functional, but thoughtfully designed. It means a device that accommodates the vast majority of automatic watches out there, from Rolex to Omega and Breitling, with multiple TPD settings and rotation directions. Learn more about our Holme & Hadfield watch winder here.
A watch winder is a valuable tool for any automatic watch owner. It ensures your watches are always ready to wear and helps maintain their longevity. When combined with a quality display case, like those from Holme & Hadfield, it elevates your collection.
