One of the most frequent questions we receive at WatchMatic is whether a winder can "wear out" a watch or overwind the mainspring if left running indefinitely. The short answer is: With a high-quality winder, it is perfectly safe and actually beneficial.
However, the "how" matters more than the "if." Here is why a luxury watch winder is designed for 24/7 operation.
1. The Myth of "Overwinding"
Modern automatic watches are equipped with a built-in safety mechanism called a slipping clutch. Once the mainspring is fully wound, this clutch allows the winding rotor to slip, preventing any damage to the movement. You cannot "break" a modern Rolex, Patek, or Omega by winding it too much.
2. Intelligent Intermittent Cycling
A professional winder from WatchMatic does not spin constantly for 24 hours. Instead, it follows a pre-programmed cycle:
- Active Phase: The winder rotates for a set period to reach the desired TPD (Turns Per Day).
- Rest Phase: The winder pauses, allowing the watch to discharge slightly, mimicking the natural rhythm of being worn on the wrist. This "sleep" cycle is crucial as it prevents the movement from staying under maximum tension at all times.
3. Protecting the Mainspring Tension
By keeping the watch on a watch winder safe constantly, you maintain a consistent level of torque. If a watch sits empty and stops, the lubricants can settle, and the mechanical parts can lose their "prime." A constant, controlled motion keeps the movement healthy and ready for action.
4. Quality of the Motor
The risk of leaving a winder on 24/7 usually lies with the winder, not the watch. Cheap winders may overheat or emit magnetic interference. WatchMatic utilizes ultra-quiet, shielded motors that produce zero magnetization, ensuring your watch’s hairspring remains unaffected even after years of continuous use.
Expert Verdict: It is not only safe but recommended to keep your winder running, provided you use a unit with programmable TPD and rest cycles to ensure your timepiece operates within its design specifications.
