No, an automatic watch winder is generally not necessary for most people. While watch winders can be convenient for those who own multiple automatic watches or those with complex complications, they are not essential for maintaining an automatic watch's functionality or longevity.
Reasons why a watch winder might be considered:
- Convenience: For those who rotate between multiple automatic watches, a winder can save time and effort by keeping them wound and ready to wear.
- Complex complications: Watches with perpetual calendars or other intricate complications can be time-consuming to reset. A winder can keep these watches running, avoiding the hassle of frequent resetting.
- Personal preference: Some watch enthusiasts simply enjoy the aesthetic of a watch winder or the ritual of having their watches on display.
Reasons why a watch winder is not essential:
- Regular wear: If you wear your automatic watch regularly, it will wind itself through the natural movements of your wrist.
- No harm in stopping: It's perfectly fine for an automatic watch to stop running when not worn. It won't cause any damage to the movement.
- Servicing still needed: Even with a winder, an automatic watch will eventually need servicing due to wear and tear on the movement, just like any mechanical watch.
- Potential for wear and tear: Some argue that continuous winding can cause unnecessary wear on the movement, potentially shortening its lifespan.
In conclusion:
While watch winders can be a nice addition for some watch enthusiasts, they are not a necessity for the care and maintenance of an automatic watch. If you enjoy the convenience and don't mind the potential for added wear and tear, then a winder might be a good choice. However, if you wear your watch regularly or prefer the simplicity of hand-winding, a winder is likely not needed, according to watch experts.
