Lego Watch Winder

Machines for machines

Automatic mechanical watches need motion every couple days to keep the main spring wound and the mechanism moving. You can buy watch winders to store a watch and keep it mechanically ‘charged’ when not in use. They are usually fancier and more expensive than necessary, perhaps because they store surplus luxury items. I wanted to make this one for fun and function.

This little project was my second Lego build since before I could drive. With a rough plan, I went to the Lego Pick A Brick site and ordered twice as many parts as necessary, fearing a future delay if I realize too late I miss a critical part. I built it around a PoweredUp motor and controller, which can be programmed with a mobile app.

Next step, a vertical extension and another cardboard tube section rolling on the first for a second watch!