Should I use a winder? Hmmm? Loaded question, but a good one. Here are CTWG's thoughts on watch winders. If use can afford them --and they cost less than the watches that you put on them, they are an okay purchase. Will the oils in your watch seize up like old bacon grease left to settle? Definitely not. Watch winders have their place. I recomend Perpetual Calenders owners, collectors with multiple pieces, and less than active people use them. I am of the school that says, "Buy a new watch with your disposable income --if any runs over, shop for a good winder." Good pick options are the Sparta from Orbita and Wolf Designs Module 3.0, both do the job at a nice price. CTWG
Is it true that cheap winders can cause your watch to become magnetized? I heard this when I asked someone what the difference is between and expensive winder and a cheap one, besides cosmetics.
It is not really the price of the winder, but the motor in the winder will create a magnetic field. The relationship between the watch and that field, I believe will be the cause for the watch to be magnetized or not. Most high end watch companies time watches out on a large wheel winder, far away from the motor. Research with the company will help, call them and ask, is the motor far enough away from the watch to keep it from becoming magnetized? Hope it helps! CTWG
Chad,
Just wanted to thank you for a great watch buying experience. The Zinex is more than you said it was and i have heard from so many people how unique it looks and feels. I can hardly wait for your online pre-owned inventory to start up. March 1rst right? I know there will be some gems from your shop and regardless of price I know the quality will be the greatest value. I know you know watches, brand new or pre-owned. Great success with your e-sales.
Joe Dogs
Thanks for the answer. Do you happen to know if the Orbita winders have the motors far enough away for the magnetization not to be a problem?
Also, you say “Will the oils in your watch seize up like old bacon grease left to settle? Definitely not.”. Does this mean that from a functional standpoint, a winder doesn’t add to the ‘health’ of your watch at all? If it’s just the convenience of not having to set the time, I don’t mind going without a winder. The primary reason I’d get one is to help maintain the condition of my timepieces.
Calvin,
I would say yes, a great company and I carry their product. If your watch has magnitized, stop in to a good watchmaker and have him fix it quick. We put it in a small oval metal unit push a button and presto problem solved. CTWG