Touch-Controlled Automatic Watch Winder

This automatic watch winder is a precision-controlled device designed for reliable and gentle winding of mechanical watches, with a strong focus on mechanical safety, clean motion control, and practical usability.

It is powered by a 28BYJ 12V stepper motor, driven via a ULN2003 motor driver, ensuring smooth, low-noise, and accurate rotational control. The system is controlled by an ESP32-C3 microcontroller, with a dedicated 12V → 5V DC-DC converter providing stable power for the control electronics.

The device features an integrated touch button in the enclosure that enables intuitive local control:

• Start / Stop the winding cycle
• Calibrate the home (start) position of the rotor for consistent alignment and repeatable operation

The design emphasizes simplicity, reliability, and precision mechanics, making it suitable for everyday use with automatic watches.

Key features:

• 28BYJ 12V stepper motor
• ULN2003 driver
• ESP32-C3 MCU
• 12V → 5V power conversion
• Touch button control (start/stop + calibration)
• Precise stepper control for gentle winding
• Upgrade-ready architecture
• Compact, functional enclosure design
• Print-in-place cushion removal button

Smart Control Roadmap (Coming Soon)

Future firmware updates will introduce advanced control features, including:

• Setting rotations per day (TPD)
• Adjustable rotation speed
• Scheduled winding cycles
• Digital configuration interface

Code GitHub repo: https://github.com/andriisemenov/watch_winder

Full assembly video: