If you own more than one automatic watch, keeping them both running smoothly can be a hassle. That’s where a double watch winder comes in. It’s an easy, stress-free way to keep your timepieces wound and ready to wear. Whether you’re a watch enthusiast or just own a couple of favorite automatics, a double watch winder is a smart solution to save time and protect your investment.
What Is a Double Watch Winder?
A double watch winder is a small device designed to keep two automatic watches running when you’re not wearing them. Automatic watches are powered by the motion of your wrist. When left unused, they eventually stop ticking. A double watch winder solves this by gently rotating your watches, mimicking the natural movement of your wrist.
This device usually comes with two separate watch holders and rotors. These rotors spin or oscillate the watches in specific directions and intervals to simulate daily wear. This keeps the mainspring tight and ensures your watch remains accurate in timekeeping. In other words, a double watch winder acts like your wrist—even when your watches are sitting on your dresser.
Why Do People Use a Double Watch Winder?
People use a double watch winder for several reasons. Most commonly, it helps prevent the inconvenience of resetting your watches every time they stop. Automatic watches can be sensitive, especially high-end models with complex movements. Resetting time, date, moon phases, or other complications can be time-consuming and even risky if not done correctly.
A double watch winder keeps your watches in motion, so they’re always ready to wear—no adjustments needed. It also serves as a sleek, protective storage solution. Many models are designed to look stylish, making them a functional yet elegant addition to your bedroom or closet.
Top Benefits of Using a Double Watch Winder
Investing in a double watch winder offers several benefits that go beyond simple convenience. Whether you’re a casual user or a collector, here are some major perks:
Keeps Your Watches Running
Automatic watches rely on movement to keep ticking. When they sit idle for too long, they stop working. A double watch winder keeps your watches running all the time by rotating them at regular intervals. This ensures they’re always powered up and showing the correct time and date. You don’t need to reset them every time you want to wear them—just pick them up and go.
Saves Time and Effort
Resetting a mechanical watch—especially one with complications like perpetual calendars or moon phases—can take time and precision. Using a double watch winder eliminates this daily chore. Your watches stay wound, accurate, and functional. It’s especially helpful for people who rotate between watches daily or weekly. You’ll save effort and reduce wear and tear caused by constant manual adjustments.
Protects Your Watch Movement
Letting a mechanical watch sit unused for too long can lead to internal lubrication settling or thickening. This may affect the watch’s performance or even cause damage over time. A double watch winder keeps the movement active, maintaining proper oil distribution within the watch’s gears. This helps extend the lifespan of your timepieces and keeps them performing at their best.
How Does a Double Watch Winder Work?
A double watch winder works by rotating your watches at specific intervals to keep their internal mechanisms wound. Most models use electric motors to rotate the watch holders either clockwise, counterclockwise, or in alternating directions. This motion mimics the natural swinging of a wrist, which keeps the automatic movement inside the watch powered.
Many winders come with customizable settings for Turns Per Day (TPD). This allows you to match the winder’s performance to your watch’s specific requirements. For example, some watches need 650 TPD, while others may need up to 1000 TPD. A good winder will also pause between rotation cycles, giving the mechanism time to rest. This gentle, intermittent motion avoids overwinding and ensures optimal performance.
Who Should Buy a Double Watch Winder?
Anyone who owns two or more automatic watches can benefit from a double watch winder. It’s particularly useful for:
- Watch collectors who rotate their watches regularly.
- Professionals who wear different watches for work and casual occasions.
- Busy individuals who don’t want to waste time resetting stopped watches.
- Owners of luxury timepieces who want to keep their investment in top condition.
Even if you only have two watches, a double watch winder can make your life easier. It’s a simple tool that offers convenience, protection, and peace of mind.
What to Look for in the Best Double Watch Winder
Choosing the right double watch winder can be tricky if you’re not sure what to look for. The market is full of options, but not all winders are created equal. Here are the key features you should consider:
Quiet Motor
Noise can be an issue with some low-quality watch winders. You don’t want a loud humming sound disrupting your sleep or concentration. Look for a winder with a silent or ultra-quiet motor. Japanese Mabuchi motors are known for their quality and silence. A good motor will operate smoothly and quietly—even during nighttime hours.
Adjustable Settings
Every automatic watch has different winding needs. That’s why adjustable settings are important. Look for a winder that allows you to change the direction of rotation (clockwise, counterclockwise, or both) and the number of turns per day. This ensures compatibility with all types of watches, from Rolex to Seiko to Omega.
Soft Watch Holders
You want your watches to be secure without getting scratched or damaged. Soft, flexible watch holders prevent wear and tear on your bands and cases. They should also accommodate various watch sizes, from small wristwatches to large chronographs. The holders should grip your watch firmly but gently.
Best Places to Keep Your Double Watch Winder
The location of your double watch winder matters more than you might think. The ideal spot is cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight. This protects both the device and your watches from heat and moisture, which can damage leather straps or affect the internal workings of your timepieces.
Popular spots include a dresser drawer, nightstand, walk-in closet, or even a home office. Some winders are also compact enough to fit inside a safe, giving you extra security. Make sure it’s on a level surface to avoid unnecessary vibrations or movement. If the winder is battery-operated, ensure you can easily access it to change the batteries when needed.
The Bottom Line
A double watch winder is more than just a fancy accessory—it’s a practical tool for anyone who owns two automatic watches. It keeps your timepieces running, protects their internal movements, saves you time, and offers convenient storage. With adjustable settings, silent motors, and soft holders, a quality double watch winder enhances your watch-wearing experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned watch collector or simply someone who owns a couple of beloved automatics, investing in a double watch winder ensures your watches are always ready to wear. It’s an easy, smart way to care for your collection—so your watches are always ticking and telling perfect time.