A winder keeps an automatic (self-winding) watch running when it isn't on your wrist. An unworn automatic typically stops in 42 to 60 hours, depending on its complications. A winder rotates the case so the internal rotor continues charging the mainspring, keeping the movement running, the lubricants distributed evenly, and complications like perpetual calendars from drifting.

Periodic rewinding throughout the day also translates into more constant torque at the balance wheel — which means a more accurate watch.

TPD stands for Turns Per Day. It's the total number of times the watch is rotated in a 24-hour period. Most automatic watches require between 500 and 800 TPD. Movements with long power reserves or additional complications may require up to 1,300 TPD.

Every Orbita winder offers four preset TPD values — 650, 800, 900, and 1,300 — suitable for virtually every modern automatic on the market.

No. Every modern automatic watch includes a slipping mechanism on the mainspring that prevents over-winding. Once the spring is fully wound, additional rotor motion slides harmlessly. You cannot damage a modern automatic by keeping it on a winder.

An Orbita winder rotates the cup for one or two minutes, then sleeps. This cycle is repeated throughout the day to deliver the target TPD. Continuous rotation is unnecessary for any automatic watch and accelerates wear on both the winder motor and the watch itself. Intermittent motion is quieter, longer-lived, and gentler on the movement.

It depends on the caliber. Rolex movements wind in both directions. Many Patek Philippe movements wind counterclockwise only. The Valjoux 7750 (common in chronographs) winds clockwise and typically requires 800 TPD or more. If you're unsure, consult your watch's documentation or our compatibility database.

No. Orbita motors are mounted behind steel frames that act as magnetic shields. You'll encounter more magnetism from the speaker in your phone than from any Orbita motor.

Rotorwind is our pendulum-based system — a silent, counterbalanced swing that winds the watch with the same natural motion as your wrist. It has no electronics on the moving arm and no direct drive on the watch cup.

Programmable uses a solid-state microprocessor to drive a DC gear motor with precise rotation cycles. You set a target TPD and direction (CW, CCW, or bi-directional) and the system maintains it indefinitely. Best for movements with specific winding requirements.

Orbita winders use one of three holder types, depending on the model and winder series:

Cup — the industry standard, a soft elastic sleeve that expands to grip the watch bracelet without slipping. Automatically sizes to fit most watches without adjustment.

Bent Spring — a tensioned spring holder used on select older series.

Screw — a mechanical clamp used on safe-series and bespoke models with oversized or unusually shaped cases.

Orbita winders are engineered for extreme quiet operation. You can place one on a nightstand and sleep beside it. The combination of sleep cycles, low-gear DC motors, and mechanical isolation means the winder is effectively silent across the room.

Yes, with rare exceptions. Our cup-style holders automatically size to fit virtually every modern automatic bracelet and leather strap. For vintage, oversized, or unusually-shaped cases, consult our compatibility database or contact us for a bespoke recommendation.

Orbita's proprietary 3.6V D-cell lithium batteries deliver an average service life of five years on our Sparta series and other battery-powered models. Our Swiss-designed motors draw roughly 5–10 mA when active and less than 10 microamps when asleep — an exceptionally low duty cycle that extends cell life well beyond standard alkaline alternatives.

Every winder is assembled at our workshop in Wilmington, North Carolina. Cases are crafted from a selection of materials depending on series — hand-laid burl and exotic-wood veneers, aniline-dyed leather, multi-layered piano lacquer, machined aluminum, steel, and carbon fiber. All mechanical internals, including the Swiss-designed motors, are installed in-house.

Every Orbita winder is covered by a two-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship, from the date of original purchase. An optional three-year extended warranty may be added at the time of sale.

International warranties cover parts and labor but exclude shipping charges, duties, and taxes.

Complete the form on our Warranty Registration page within 30 days of receipt. You'll need your serial number (found on the underside or inside the winder) and original order reference.

Unused winders in original condition may be returned within 30 days of receipt for store credit. Closeout and outlet items are final sale. Shipping charges are non-refundable; return shipping is the customer's responsibility.

Call us at 800-800-4436 or email to receive an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) number before shipping anything back. Mark the RMA number clearly on the outside of the package.

In most cases, ship only the winding unit itself — not the wooden case, cups, or adapters.

A $25 processing fee applies to unauthorized returns. Full details on our Warranty & Service page.

Standard cabinet and single-module winders ship within 3–5 business days. DIY module installations are hand-assembled at our NC workshop with a typical lead time of 6–8 weeks. Bespoke configurations may require longer; a confirmed date is provided at order time.

Orders within the continental United States ship free via UPS or FedEx Ground with tracking and signature confirmation. Expedited air options are available at checkout. International orders ship via UPS Worldwide Express or DHL, with duties and taxes billed separately.

Inspect your package as soon as it arrives. If you see visible damage, refuse the shipment at the door and contact us immediately. If damage is discovered after receipt, photograph both the packaging and the unit, retain all original materials, and call 800-800-4436 within 48 hours to open a claim.

Yes. We ship worldwide. International warranties cover parts and labor but exclude shipping charges, duties, and taxes. Some markets are served through authorized dealers — see our Dealer Locator to find your nearest point of sale.