How does an automatic watch winder work?

Boite remontoir pour montre automatique

Automatic watches are masterpieces of horological engineering. Thanks to their ingenious design, they capture the kinetic energy generated by the natural movements of the wrist. Therefore, they require neither batteries nor manual winding: this is what makes these exceptional timepieces so magical.

However, when not worn for several days, automatic watches stop receiving the energy needed for their operation: they can therefore stop and lose their accuracy. That is why an automatic watch winder is so important. This innovative and elegant device preserves the accuracy and longevity of your watch when it is not on your wrist.

Discover how an automatic watch winder works and why this accessory is so sought after by collectors of automatic watches.

Table of Contents:

  • Why use an automatic watch winder?
  • The basic principle of an automatic watch winder
  • Why use an automatic watch winder?
  • The advanced technology of SwissKubik automatic watch winders
  • SwissKubik watch winders: Startbox and Masterbox
  • The importance of choosing the right watch winder
  • The convenience and elegance of winders
  • An investment for accuracy 

Why use an automatic watch winder?

The primary function of an automatic watch winder is to keep your watch on time when you are not wearing it. However, its use offers many other advantages:

  1. Lubrication of the watch's internal parts: By maintaining a regular movement, the winder promotes the circulation of oils within the mechanism. This ensures even lubrication of the components, reducing wear and prolonging the life of your watch.
  1. Fewer handling errors: Most automatic watches can be manually wound by turning the crown. This operation, more delicate than it seems, often leads to numerous accidents, such as drops or adjustments in the "dead zone." In watchmaking, this term refers to the area between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. when the date-change process is underway. Adjusting during this time can severely disrupt the automatic mechanism of your watch. This action can cause irreversible damage that only a watchmaker can rectify.
    Using an automatic watch winder helps limit errors and the risks of shocks and premature wear.
  1. Preservation of the mechanism: Frequent manual winding can damage certain components of the watch, such as the crown or the winding system. An automatic watch winder avoids excessive handling and ensures a gentle winding.
  1. Maintenance of complication watches: Owners of complication watches (perpetual calendar watches, moon phase watches, etc.) know how complex it is to restart them after a prolonged stop. Using an automatic winder keeps these complications functioning, thus avoiding complicated procedures with a professional watchmaker.
  1. Elegant display: An automatic watch winder also provides a refined presentation of your timepieces. Whether displayed in your living room or securely stored in a safe, your watches are preserved and highlighted in their beautiful case.

How does an automatic watch winder work ?

An automatic watch winder is an accessory that simulates the natural movement of the wrist to keep the watch mechanism running. This ingenious system allows your watch to remain operational even when you are not wearing it. The watch is placed on a rotating support that makes circular movements at regular intervals. This controlled rotation allows the internal rotor to wind the mainspring and ensures a constant power reserve.

The advanced technology of SwissKubik automatic watch winders

The automatic watch winders produced by SwissKubik feature the most advanced technology.

- Universal compatibility: Equipped with innovative technologies, SwissKubik automatic watch winders are programmed to perform 1,600 rotations per day on standard settings (800 clockwise and 800 counterclockwise). They thus meet the needs of 90% of automatic watches on the market.

- Connectivity and customisation: Thanks to their Bluetooth and/or USB Type-C connectivity, our Masterbox automatic watch winders are fully programmable. They can be set to turn clockwise, counterclockwise, or in both directions, depending on the specific requirements of your watch's calibre. The Masterbox winders also allow you to customise the number of rotations according to your watch's movement specifications (the most complex models typically require between 1,000 and 1,900 turns per day).

- Intermittent cycles: Between each rotation cycle, the Masterbox and Startbox watch winders pause, allowing the mainspring to relax. Thus, they do not turn continuously: they alternate between periods of activity and rest, mimicking the natural movements of the wrist throughout the day.

- Energy: Wireless, SwissKubik automatic watch winders operate autonomously and can be placed anywhere, even in a safe.

SwissKubik automatic watch winders

Masterbox:

  • Systematic stop in the vertical position at 12 o'clock
  • Programmable via Bluetooth and/or USB Type-C
  • Power supply and/or 2 LR14 / 1.5 V (C) batteries

Startbox:

  • Systematic stop in the vertical position at 12 o'clock
  • Handmade in Switzerland
  • Operates with 2 LR14 / 1.5 V (C) batteries

The importance of choosing the right watch winder

Choosing a winder suitable for your automatic watch is a crucial decision for preserving its proper functioning. It is essential to select a model that perfectly matches the size, weight, and technical specifications of your watch. SwissKubik winders are designed to accommodate a wide range of watches, offering optimal fit and precise rotation. Whether you own a unique watch or a complete collection, our winders can hold between 1 and 12 watches, making them a preferred choice for watch enthusiasts.

The convenience and elegance of winders

Combining functionality and elegance, SwissKubik automatic watch winders are perfect for showcasing your watches. Available in a variety of colours, they come in many materials (leather, aluminium, soft-touch, wood, carbon fibre, etc.). They are decorative items in their own right that blend harmoniously into all styles of interiors, whether modern or classic.

An investment for accuracy

Investing in a quality winder is essential for any automatic watch enthusiast. By keeping your watch in regular motion, you ensure not only its accuracy but also its longevity. SwissKubik offers a range of winders that combine functionality, style, and technology, ensuring that your watch remains as precise and elegant as the day you acquired it.