Should You Get a Watch Winder? Pros & Cons of Using One

What Does a Watch Winder Do?

As the name suggests, a watch winder keeps your automatic watches wound and ready to wear at all times. Automatic watches use a rotor to wind themselves while on your wrist. However, once taken off, they will eventually stop when the power reserve runs out.

For watches with complications, resetting them each time can be inconvenient. A watch winder helps eliminate this hassle by keeping your timepiece running and ready to go whenever you need it.

Do You Really Need One?

In Singapore, investing in a watch winder is worthwhile if your watch features any of the following complications:

• Perpetual Calendar

• Annual Calendar

• Moonphase Indicator

• Dual or Multiple Time Zones (GMT watches)

These types of watches can be tedious to reset. If you rotate between multiple watches frequently, a watch winder can save you time and effort.

When Can You Avoid Getting One?

Before purchasing a watch winder, it’s important to understand your watch movement:

• If your watch is Quartz or Manual Winding, a watch winder is unnecessary

• Watch winders are designed specifically for automatic watches

If your automatic watch only has simple functions (such as a date or day display), adjusting it manually is quick and easy.

Additionally, if you wear the same watch daily, there is no need for a winder, as it will stay powered through regular use. Even when left on your bedside overnight, most watches have sufficient power reserve to keep running.

Pros & Cons of a Watch Winder

Like any watch accessory, a watch winder comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Here’s what you should know before purchasing one.

Advantages of a Watch Winder

Always Ready to Wear
A watch winder keeps your watch running continuously, so you don’t need to reset the time or complications. Simply take it out and wear it.

Doubles as a Display Piece
For collectors in Singapore, a watch winder can also serve as a stylish display. A well-designed winder with a clear window allows you to showcase your collection elegantly.

Disadvantages of Using a Watch Winder

High-Quality Models Can Be Expensive
While budget options are available from around SGD 20 on platforms like Temu or Amazon, their quality may be unreliable. Common issues include hard cushions, inconsistent rotation, and even the risk of magnetizing your watch.

For better performance and safety, it is recommended to invest in a quality model. Reliable watch winders in Singapore typically range between SGD 150 – SGD 800, depending on brand and specifications.