How to Set Up and Use a Watch Winder: The Complete Beginner's Guide

July 9, 2023

Time is on Your Side: How to Set Up and Use a Watch Winder

Just bought your first watch winder? Or perhaps you've had one sitting in a drawer and never quite got it set up correctly? This guide walks you through everything you need to know — from unboxing to dialling in the perfect TPD settings — so your automatic watches are always wound, accurate, and ready to wear.

How Automatic Watches Work

Before setting up your winder, it helps to understand what it's actually doing. Automatic watches are powered by a rotor — a weighted semicircle that spins as your wrist moves, winding the mainspring and storing energy. When the watch sits unworn, the mainspring gradually unwinds and the watch stops.

A watch winder replicates wrist movement, keeping the mainspring tensioned so your watch never stops — no matter how long it sits unworn.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Place your winder on a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and strong magnetic fields (such as speaker systems or large electronics). A wardrobe shelf, dressing table, or bedside cabinet all work well. Avoid placing it directly on top of a subwoofer or near a charging pad.

Step 2: Power It Up

Most Aevitas winders support both mains power and battery operation. For permanent home use, mains power is recommended — it's more reliable and eliminates the need to replace batteries. If you're travelling or don't have a nearby socket, battery mode works perfectly well for shorter periods.

Connect the power adaptor or insert batteries as described in your winder's manual, then switch it on.

Step 3: Set Your TPD (Turns Per Day)

This is the most important step. TPD — turns per day — is the number of rotations your winder completes in 24 hours. Every automatic movement has a recommended TPD range specified by the manufacturer. Setting the wrong TPD won't damage your watch (the slipping clutch prevents overwinding), but it may mean the watch isn't kept fully wound.

Use our TPD settings database to find the correct setting for your specific watch brand and model. As a general guide:

Rolex: 650–800 TPD, clockwise
Omega: 650–800 TPD, bi-directional
TAG Heuer: 650–800 TPD, bi-directional
Patek Philippe: 650–800 TPD, clockwise
IWC: 900–1,800 TPD, bi-directional

Set the rotation direction (clockwise, anti-clockwise, or bi-directional) to match your movement's requirements.

Step 4: Place Your Watch

Fit the watch cushion or holder to the correct size for your watch case. Most Aevitas winders include adjustable cushions to accommodate watches from 38mm up to 50mm+ case diameters. Place your watch on the cushion with the crown facing outward, and ensure it sits securely without being forced.

Close the winder lid or door to protect your watch from dust.

Step 5: Let It Run

Your winder will now rotate continuously, pausing periodically during programmed rest intervals. This is completely normal — rest periods allow the rotor to settle and reduce motor wear. Your watch will remain fully wound throughout.

There's no need to switch the winder off at night. It's designed to run 24/7.

Ongoing Care Tips

Clean your watches regularly — even stored watches accumulate dust. Wipe the case and bracelet with a soft, lint-free cloth every few weeks.
Check the cushion fit periodically — if you change watches, re-adjust the cushion size to ensure a secure fit.
Service your watches on schedule — a winder keeps your watch running but doesn't replace regular servicing. Most manufacturers recommend a service every 3–5 years.

Ready to Get Started?

If you're looking for your first winder or upgrading to accommodate a growing collection, our 2 Watch Winder in Carbon Fibre is a popular choice — it winds two watches simultaneously with independent TPD settings for each, and includes additional storage for a third watch or accessories.

2 Watch Winder Carbon Fibre — Benefits of Watch Winders

Browse our full watch winder collection to find the right size and finish for your collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what TPD setting to use?
Check our TPD settings database for your specific watch brand and model. If your watch isn't listed, contact the manufacturer or use a mid-range bi-directional setting as a starting point.

Can I leave my watch on the winder indefinitely?
Yes. Watch winders are designed for continuous use. The slipping clutch in your watch prevents overwinding regardless of how long it runs.

My winder keeps stopping — is something wrong?
Probably not. Programmed rest intervals are a normal part of the winding cycle. If the winder stops completely and doesn't restart, check the power connection or replace the batteries.

Can I use one winder for different watch brands?
Yes, provided the winder has adjustable TPD and direction settings. Set it to the requirements of whichever watch is currently loaded.

Does a watch winder work for manual-wind watches?
No. Manual-wind watches have no rotor and cannot be wound by a winder. They must be wound by hand.