Benson watch winder DIY-modules

The watch winder is a popular accessory among enthusiasts of automatic watches. In fact, it is an indispensable tool for the preservation and maintenance of such timepieces. While you could certainly purchase a standard model from a well-known brand, you might prefer to wind your watches inside a safe, cabinet, or drawer. In that case, a standard watch winder may not be the ideal choice; a custom solution would be the best option.

A DIY watch winder module or a complete panel that can be integrated into your project is an interesting alternative. However, few watch winder brands supply such modules and panels. Why? Because it involves customization and requires a high level of specialization and expertise in winding technology for automatic watches, criteria that many brands do not meet. The Dutch brand Benson is an exception; for years, it has been producing custom solutions for both businesses and consumers. Benson supplies specialists in the fields of safes, interior design, shipbuilding, and furniture making. As a result, Benson’s winding technology for automatic watches is a global leader.

What are DIY watch winder modules?

A DIY watch winder module is a set of components that allows you to assemble your own watch winder for winding automatic watches. A watch winder is a device that rotates an automatic watch, keeping the movement running when the watch is not being worn. This alternating motion partially mimics the natural movement of the wrist, enabling the automatic movement to continue generating energy via its rotor.
With DIY (Do-It-Yourself) modules, you can decide for yourself what your watch winder looks like, how many watches it accommodates, and which technical features you wish to utilize. This makes them suitable for businesses, hobbyists, and watch enthusiasts who wish to build their own custom solution, such as integrating the Benson DIY watch winder module into a safe, cabinet, or drawer.

What components make up a Benson DIY watch winder module?

A Benson DIY watch winder module typically consists of several components that work together to ensure the controlled rotation of the watch.

• Motor unit: drives the rotation of the watch holder. Benson uses high-end motors of Japanese and Swiss manufacture.

• Watch holder: holds the watch securely in place and must be suitable for the dimensions of the watch strap.

• Control module (CPU and touchscreen): regulates the direction of rotation, rotation speed, and any pauses between movement cycles.

• Power supply: provides the necessary energy. Depending on the design, this can be via an adapter or batteries.

• Housing: protects the components and determines the appearance of the finished watch winder.

• Accessories: for example, LED lighting or a ring for the visual finish.

Benson DIY watch winder modules come fully equipped and are plug-and-play ready. You can integrate the module directly into your project and use it immediately. The modules are also supplied fully assembled.

How does a watch winder work?

In an automatic watch, energy is stored in the movement's mainspring. When the watch is worn, a rotor moves in response to wrist movements. This rotor drives the winding mechanism and helps keep the mainspring tensioned.

A watch winder rotates the watch in a controlled manner, allowing the rotor to move. Operation depends on the type of movement. Therefore, it is important to consider two key settings:

• TPD (Turns Per Day): the number of rotations the watch winder performs daily.

• Rotation direction: some watches wind in both directions, while others wind effectively only when rotating clockwise, counter-clockwise, or a combination of both.

The correct TPD and rotation direction vary by watch model. Always consult the manufacturer's recommendations before selecting settings. More rotations are not necessarily better. Benson DIY watch winder modules are suitable for any watch brand or model.

What are the benefits of a Benson DIY watch winder module?

Integrating a Benson DIY watch winder module offers several advantages.

1. Personalization
You can customize the dimensions, materials, and finish to suit your interior and watch collection. Options include wood, aluminum, acrylic, or a 3D-printed housing.

2. Flexibility
You can start with a single watch and expand the system later with additional modules. This is particularly useful as your collection grows.

3. Cost control
By selecting components yourself, you can decide how your budget is allocated. The final price depends on the quality of the motor, electronics, housing, and finish.

4. Gaining technical knowledge
The project offers opportunities to gain experience with electronics, mechanics, programming, and product design.

5. Maintenance and adaptability

With a modular design, individual components can often be replaced or modified more easily than in a fully integrated device.

What should you consider when creating a DIY watch winder system?

When choosing a DIY module, it is wise to look beyond just price and appearance.

• Sound level: choose a motor and drive system that produce minimal noise and vibration.

• Reliability: check that the motor is suitable for prolonged and repeated use.

• Adjustability: adjustable rotation direction, TPD (turns per day), and rest periods offer greater versatility for different watches.

• Power and safety: use a suitable power adapter and well-insulated electrical connections.

• Stability: ensure the housing is sturdy and the watch cannot shift out of place.

• Compatibility: check that the holder is suitable for the size and weight of your watch.

• Maintenance: opt for components that are easily accessible and replaceable whenever possible.

An important point to consider is that not every automatic watch needs to remain in constant motion; many watches can safely come to a halt when not being worn. A watch winder is particularly practical if you want to avoid having to reset your watch after a period of inactivity. With a Benson DIY watch winder module, you get all these features combined, ready for integration into your project, such as a safe, cabinet, or drawer.

Step-by-step guide to building your own Benson DIY watch winder

A simple DIY project can be carried out in several steps:

1. Determine the design. Decide how many watches you want to wind and how much space the housing should occupy.

2. Install the Benson DIY watch winder module. Mount the components and determine the placement of the touchscreen and the individual motors.

3. Test operation. Check the rotation direction, noise level, stability, and programmed rotation cycles.

4. Configure the system. Select the recommended settings for the specific watch and verify that the module functions reliably.

Conclusion

Benson DIY watch winder modules allow you to assemble a watch winder tailored to your personal preferences and technical requirements. By selecting the right combination of motor, control system, watch holder, and housing, you can build a device that is both functional and attractive. Their modular design, customization options, and ease of self-maintenance make these systems particularly appealing to businesses, watch enthusiasts, interior specialists, and DIYers.

A well-designed watch winder does not simply rotate incessantly; instead, it moves in a controlled manner suited to the specific needs of the timepiece. With a focus on quality, compatibility, and secure mounting, a Benson DIY watch winder module provides an excellent foundation for a luxurious, reliable, custom-built watch winder.

Visit here the Benson Watchwinders website for more information.