A typical watch winder uses mechanical machines such as wheel, screws and springs to function. An automatic watch winder uses these mechanisms and then powered by electricity from an electric outlet or a battery. The main use for an automatic watch winder is to make automatic watches work even without the presence of a pulse obtained by it when worn by a person. Different makes and finishes which people may have the opportunity to buy watch winder online may diverge in features, functions, designs and prices but the science behind them that make them work are relatively similar from each other.

In the physical mechanism of an automatic watch winder, most are manufactured with divisions to allow enclosure and housing to two or more watches. Some watch winders are enclosed in glass to enable the viewing of the automatic watch stored inside it is different perspectives. Other watch winders are made of transparent and clear thermoplastics which are tougher and less prone to breakage yet still allow total viewing of the automatic watch. Other classic looking watch winders are made out of wood that are handcrafted and painted with varnish for added shine and protection.

The glamorous use of precious metals, gems and semi-precious stones have also been done in some expensive automatic watch winders. Gold or silver-plate watch winders are best used for metallic watches to complement the brightness of their appearance. Other watch winders studded with gems and crystals are custom-created for avid watch winder collectors who are willing to spend some money for these priceless possessions.