Most automatic watches do not need a watch winder. It is normal to let an automatic run down when you are not wearing it.
What a winder does
A winder rotates the watch to move the rotor and maintain the power reserve. It can keep the time and calendar running between wears.
When it helps
- You rotate watches every few days and dislike resetting them.
- The watch has a complicated calendar.
- Limited hand movement makes winding and setting difficult.
When to skip it
For a simple watch with a date, resetting takes a minute or two. Letting it stop avoids continuous operation and does not harm a healthy movement.
Choose settings carefully
Match turns per day and rotation direction to the movement. More rotation is not better. The holder should fit without stretching the bracelet or strap.
A winder is not a repair
If an automatic stops while being worn normally, loses reserve unusually fast, or runs poorly, a winder will not fix the problem.
For storage basics, read how to store watches long term.