A watch winder is a motorized device that gently rotates your automatic watch at set intervals. This motion simulates the natural movement of your wrist, which is what powers an automatic movement in the first place. The goal is simple: to keep your watch wound and running when it’s not being worn.
In short: not if you choose the right winder and use it correctly. But like any mechanical accessory, it’s important to understand the details.
Modern automatic watches are built with a slipping clutch mechanism. Once the mainspring is fully wound, this feature disengages the winding system, preventing further tension. That means a winder won’t “overwind” your watch—this risk simply doesn’t exist with quality modern movements.
Each automatic movement has its own winding behavior—some wind clockwise, others counterclockwise, and many are bidirectional. Additionally, every movement has a recommended number of TPD (Turns Per Day). If your winder rotates in the wrong direction or exceeds the necessary TPD, it may create unnecessary internal wear or result in inefficient winding.
Expert Tip
Use a winder with programmable settings. Once you confirm your watch’s specs (usually available from the brand’s website or manual), set the direction and TPD accordingly. When in doubt, choose a TPD that’s equal to or slightly below the recommended range.
Some lower-cost winders may not have proper magnetic shielding around their motors. This can expose your watch to magnetic fields, which can cause timing issues—making your watch run fast, slow, or even stop.
Solution
Choose a winder with anti-magnetic construction or certified motor shielding. This is especially important for watches with non-magnetic movements or vintage calibers that lack modern protection.
It’s a fair concern: if a watch is always moving, will it wear out faster? Most experts say no—at least, not in any meaningful way. Wearing a watch daily already subjects it to more shocks, temperature changes, and movement than a winder does. A high-quality winder that operates intermittently, with rest periods, mimics natural wear more gently than daily wrist use. In fact, for watches with complex calendars or lubricants that can dry out when inactive, regular motion may even help preserve accuracy over time.
A properly used watch winder won’t harm your automatic watch. When chosen carefully and configured correctly, it’s a helpful tool—especially for collectors managing multiple timepieces or owners of watches with complex functions. The key is understanding your specific watch’s needs and avoiding cheap, poorly made devices. Use your winder as an aid, not a crutch. With the right approach, it adds convenience without compromise.
