Finding the perfect watch winder to meet your needs is as easy as researching your options. How much is your timepiece worth, both in monetary and sentimental value? Do you want a simple, functional storage unit? Do you prefer an elaborate display case with all of the features available? These are questions you should ask yourself while determining which is the best watch winder.
The Orbita watch winder is made in the U.S. and is considered one of the best watch winders available. It can be set to move at 500, 650, 800 and 950 turns per day. This particular brand has an auto-reverse feature and has a battery life of anywhere from 6-24 months. The Orbita watch winder is one of the less expensive models in their range but runs very quietly and does not over wind automatic watches. Orbita offers options of single, double and higher multiple heads to house the pieces and many of their products allow for programming of the turns per day. This company has also released a model that holds up to 24 watches at once and each watch can be set for different turns per day; this model has a retail value of $20,000.
Rolex also has a variety of watch winders available. These watch winders come in a variety of options from simple to beautifully crafted and elaborate. Most models can encase anywhere from one to ten watches in a single box. It is recommended that if you are unsure of the specifications of a particular brand of watch winders, you should consult with a jeweler or watch expert to help narrow your search.
The Steinhausen watch winder is a favorite among collectors. As with the other top brands, Steinhausen offers beautifully constructed watch winders with precise engineering. Designed to slowly, delicately and consistently wind your watch, Steinhausen guarantees your watch will be carefully wound, easily displayed and ready to wear at a moment’s notice. This brand of watch winder is generally equipped with a glass front for easy viewing and can keep your timepiece protected from dust. Owners of the Steinhausen watch winder enjoy the ability to store up to four watches in the same case and like that the motor runs very quietly.
Since 1834, Wolf Watches has practiced to perfect its winding products. Because of the careful design and elegance of these watch winders, Wolf has become a favorite among collectors. One of the newer products, Module 2.0, is capable of winding in three different directions: clockwise, counterclockwise or bi-directionally. This product also has a setting in which the watch is allowed to “sleep”; many collectors believe this to be a critical stage for any self-winding watch in order simulate normal wear (i.e. winding and unwinding). Consistent over winding can damage your treasured watch. This is among the many reasons people enjoy the features of the Wolf watch winder.
The Underwood watch winder also offers many appealing features. The Rotogalble winder from Underwood is programmed to wind 30 minutes clockwise, 30 minutes counter clockwise and then a three-hour resting period before the cycle begins again. This feature is favorable since most collectors understand the importance of delicate winding. Many experts believe the Underwood watch winder collection to be among the best on the market, however they are also among the most expensive.
The Rapport Company has been in the watch business for over one hundred years. Given the amount of time creating watches and accessories, it is no wonder they have some of the finest products on the market. Many prestigious collectors choose Rapport watch winders and consider them the best watch winders available. Rapport believes that the frequency, angle and speed of rotation are the key elements to crafting the ultimate watch winder. Along with high standards of craftsmanship, this company also believes in provided elegantly appearing cases for watch display and storage. This product also offers a choice of settings from a fast-winding mode to an intermittent mode with rotates both clockwise and counter-clockwise.
Eilux, the recently renamed watch winder from Everwell is considered an excellent choice as an entry-level or beginners watch winder. The Eilux is covered by a manufacturer’s warranty and is said to be a very dependable, although much less expensive than other brands, winder. This brand is programmed to wind in three directions: clockwise, counter-clockwise and bi-directional. It is important to note that the winder should be completely shut down before changing winding directions. One dealer likens this to changing gears in a moving car without stopping first. The factory default setting is to rotate bi-directionally for 24 minutes with a three-hour resting period before beginning the cycle again.
If you have a very large budget in which to purchase a winder and have a very valuable timepiece to store, a high-end watch winder can be a may be the right choice you. Although many of the best quality winders are pricey, brands such as the Eilux can be a good alternative to spending a thousand or more dollars. Precision in rotation is a critical factor and you should certainly take notice of the rotation cycles of any brand you consider purchasing.
Owners of valuable automatic watches obviously wish to protect their investment. Comparing the different brands of watch winders to find the best for your needs is important. Generally speaking, watch winder manufacturers create products based on different principles. It is probably wise to stay away from the cheaply made models because you run the risk of over winding your piece. The more intricately designed models may be significantly more expensive, however, you certainly pay for what you get in this market. To clarify, with a poor winder, your watch may even become disabled or damaged by over winding. Choosing a winder with finite workings is the best way to ensure your watch is properly wound.
