For many people, a watch is more than just a tool to tell time. It’s a statement piece, a reflection of personal style, and often a symbol of status. Whether your watch costs a few hundred dollars or tens of thousands, proper care and maintenance will ensure it stays in top condition for years to come.
1. Avoid Long-Term Contact with Water
Most watches today are water-resistant to some extent, but this doesn’t mean they’re waterproof. Leather straps, in particular, deteriorate quickly when exposed to water, becoming stiff, discolored, or cracked. Always remove your watch when washing your hands, doing household chores, or showering. If your watch does get wet, wipe it dry immediately with a soft cloth.
2. Keep Away from Strong Magnetic Fields
Devices such as smartphones, speakers, laptops, and induction cookers generate magnetic fields that can interfere with your watch’s accuracy. Mechanical watches are especially sensitive to magnetism, which can cause them to run fast, slow, or even stop. To protect your timepiece, avoid placing it near such devices for extended periods.
3. Clean Regularly
Daily wear leads to sweat, dust, and oil build-up on your watch case and strap. This not only affects its appearance but can also damage the material over time. For metal straps, use a soft toothbrush dipped in clean water to gently brush away dirt, then dry thoroughly. For leather straps, wipe with a dry cloth; avoid using water or harsh cleaners.
4. Wind Mechanical Watches Regularly
If you own a manual mechanical watch, wind it once a day at the same time to keep the mainspring evenly tensioned. Wind until you feel slight resistance, but never force it, as overwinding can damage the movement. For automatic watches not worn daily, wind them monthly to keep the lubricants inside the movement evenly distributed.
5. Protect Against Shocks and Drops
Although many modern watches have shock-resistant features, they’re not immune to damage from strong impacts. Avoid wearing your watch during intense sports, heavy lifting, or activities that may cause it to bang against hard surfaces. A sudden shock can dislodge internal parts or crack the crystal.
6. Schedule Professional Servicing
Both quartz and mechanical watches require periodic servicing. Mechanical watches typically need a full service every 3-5 years to clean the movement, check lubrication, and replace worn parts. Quartz watches require battery changes and water-resistance checks to maintain performance and prevent leakage.
In Summary
Caring for your watch is about more than preserving its looks – it’s about ensuring its functionality and longevity. Your watch accompanies you through meetings, travels, milestones, and daily life. With just a little extra care, your timepiece will continue to perform reliably and remain a beautiful accessory that tells your story for decades to come.
