Watch winders are generally not necessary but are worthwhile for collectors with multiple automatic watches, especially those with complicated functions like perpetual calendars, as they offer convenience by keeping watches wound and ready to wear. However, they are pointless for manual-wind or quartz watches. Some argue winders cause unnecessary wear, while others suggest keeping the oils fluid is beneficial. The decision depends on your watch collection, personal preferences for convenience, and your comfort with the potential for increased maintenance.
When a Watch Winder Might Be Worth It
- Multiple automatic watches: If you own several automatic watches and wear them in rotation, a winder keeps them ready without daily manual winding.
- Complicated watches: Watches with features like perpetual calendars, annual calendars, worldtimers, or triple calendars are a pain to set if they stop. A winder makes them convenient to wear.
- Convenience: A winder eliminates the time and effort of manually setting your watch every time you want to wear it.
- Keeping oils distributed: Some believe that constant, periodic motion helps keep the internal oils fluid, which can be healthier for the watch movement over time.
When a Watch Winder Is Likely Unnecessary
- Single automatic watch: If you have one automatic watch and wear it regularly, it will stay wound on your wrist.
- Manual-wind or quartz watches: A winder does nothing for a manual-wind watch (which needs hand-winding) or a quartz watch (which runs on a battery).
- Minimal collections: If you don't own many automatic watches or don't mind manually winding and setting them, a winder isn't a necessity.
Considerations
- Wear and tear: One argument against winders is that constant mechanical movement can lead to increased wear on the watch's movement, potentially requiring service sooner.
- Cost: While there are cheaper options available, high-end winders can be expensive, and some question the value for money.
- Personal preference: Ultimately, the decision is personal. If the convenience and ability to have your complex watch always ready outweighs the minor potential drawbacks, a winder is a good investment for you.
