How to Assess an Automatic Watch Winder

If you have just purchased an automatic/self-winding watch, or if you plan to invest in one, you should know that a watch winder is a necessary accessory. The function of an automatic watch winder is to keep the timepiece wound when it is not in use. Therefore, it is very important to know how to purchase a quality product to keep your watch in the best shape for a long time.

You may think that the practical need for such a product is minimal, but the general recommendation is that you use a winder for your automatic watch every time you do not use it. Moreover, if you have a collection of two or more watches, which you obviously cannot wear all at once, or you have purchased one of the latest products on the market with sophisticated settings that you will need to reset if the watch is unwound, it is highly suggested that you purchase a winder.

Therefore, once you have decided you need to buy an automatic watch winder, you should obtain accurate information about how to discriminate the quality product from the cheap one. You need to assess a number of features prior to making the purchase: the brand that produces them, the capabilities of their internal circuit and other technical details like battery life and, of course, the appearance.

If you have enough money to invest in a popular brand watch winder, you will avoid carefully going through all the details of the product before buying it. You can be certain that brands with decades of experience in the field will offer you only the best quality products. After spending a lot of money on a valuable timepiece, you should not risk buying a low priced and questionable quality watch winder. Some examples of the most famous brands that produce quality automatic watch winders are Orbital, Eilux and Revolutionary.

However, if you wish to be certain about the quality of the watch winder you are about to invest in, you should consider its internal abilities. The winder should provide full automation and control by means of an internal circuit, which means it should not require manual turn on or turn off. It should also be able to run the "Turn and Rest" program that specialists view as a standard nowadays. This program allows the motor to stop for a period after a cycle of spins, in order to mimic the normal daily activity of an automatic watch. The risk is to over-wind the watch and shorten the life of its components.

Another aspect you should consider is the appearance of the winder. The case or box has a dual function as a winder and as storage medium for your valuable watch. Therefore, the case or box should create the most appropriate atmosphere to protect the watches’ components, but also offer a presentable look. There is a wide variety of models available on the watch winder market, from classical and elegant cases made of wood and glass to more modern and sophisticated models.

The last and most important issue that needs consideration before buying an automatic watch winder is the budget you have available for this investment. It is best that you make a financial sacrifice and purchase a good quality product from a renowned brand. These types of winders come with highly quality mechanisms. Nevertheless, if you are on a limited budget, you should choose one of the medium-priced items, but concentrate to make the best deal.

These are some of the ideas to consider before buying an automatic watch winder. Going through all of them stepwise, by first asking about the manufacturer, then about the characteristics of the inner circuit, and price will considerably ease your research. You can find the perfect winder for your valuable watch or watches just by browsing lists of products here, on our website. It is easier, less time consuming and more money saving than going to consult with a jeweler, for instance.