If I don't wear the same watch everyday, why do I want an automatic? I love the smooth operation of a self winder, the sweep hand effortlessly gliding over the face.Is the effect the same with a manual wind? Are display backs and skeletons just as interesting on a manual wind? What pluses and minuses are there over a self wind. Cost, efficiency, durability, complications? I have never had a self wind so I don't know.

BTW I have asked myself why I want a watch winder if I don't wear the same watch every day, but I think I want one anyway.

How smooth the second-hands sweeps is dependent on the beat-frequency of the movement, both automatic and manual winders are available in comparable beat-frequencies, so no difference there. And when viewing the movement through a glass-back, I personally prefer to look at a manual winder because the rotor of the automatic movements hides a large part of the mechanics! Having said that I must admit that all my mechanical watches are automatics!! But that will change very soon I hope!!!

Here's an example of a nice manual movement:


(copyright (c) Maarten)

(and no: this won't be my next purchase )

I tend to favor automatics, I wouldn't mind a nice winder. I'll just have to adjust to winding before wearing. I'll probably own one eventually.