Form, Fit and Function of a Watch Winder

When manufacturers start on a new product, their designers usually discuss about the form, fit and function of that product. In its purest definition, it describes a product’s physical, performance and functional characteristics.


In a watch winder, it takes a similar perspective described as follows.


Form

This defines the shape, size, dimensions, mass and other visual parameters, in this case referring to its aesthetics such as inlays, trimmings, lacquering or embellishments, which uniquely differentiate it from other winders. It describes the "look" of the watch winder which truly gives the first impression to potential buyers. All manufacturers put extra effort to attract (lure?) their customers by this “looks”.

Winders meant for the safe are designed smaller, whereas winders for the traveller are not only small but also light. Kubik designers target people with a taste for art whereas Buben & Zorweg go for extreme luxury in their finest masterpieces.

Note: Form can Fit Function
A compact battery operated watch winder designed to suit safes.


Fit

In designing its form, manufacturers visualize how a watch winder would suit (fit) and compliment the furniture, home interiors and the environment or lifestyle of the owner.

There are cabinet types, tower types and stand-alones to suit all taste. Materials used for the housing are wood, plastic, metal and leather. Some manufacturers provide customizing services to users while a few just sells winder modules so that users can retrofit it by themselves.

Note: Fitting Form to Function
A watch winder stripped of its housing can be used in a safe.


Function

A watch winder should be build to perform its intended purpose, which is to keep a watch wound. Either for a particular range of timepiece or across the whole spectrum of calibers, this unit should serve to function with automatic watches.

Basic functions included, but not limited to, are as follow.

a) It must be capable of rotating with a load and last a few years.
b) AC and/or battery powered.
c) Wind a single watch or two watches on a rotating head.
d) Provide the required TPD for an automatic watch.

Note: Function where Form Fits
If the user wants a winder with housing placed inside the safe, a custom-built winder would be great.



When selecting a watch winder, the Form, Fit and Function of a unit could be factors considered.

Labels: designs of watch winders