A high-quality watch is designed to be used every day for a lifetime, and then passed down between generations. Their mechanisms might seem intimidating in their intricacy, but they are designed to be looked after by the user. Through regular, careful maintenance, you’ll be able to keep that prized wristwatch in optimal condition.
But what exactly does this maintenance look like?
Cleaning
Cleaning is something that should be done as often as possible. The more often you do it, the less thorough you’ll need to be. Use a cloth that’s slightly damp to wipe grime away from metal surfaces, and immerse rubber straps into soapy water. Don’t allow water to penetrate the interior, and don’t use hot or boiling water – the heating and cooling will damage the metal components over time, thanks to slight contraction and expansion.
Winding
Winding a watch will keep it working, and it’ll spread the lubricant around the internal mechanisms. You should look to do this at roughly the same time every week. Set a reminder and get into the habit. Sunday night, just before bed, is a popular slot.
Keep the Box
Sometimes, you’ll want to take your watch off. Putting it in its original box will ensure that it doesn’t get inadvertently scratched. You’ll want to do this before going to sleep, especially if you’re a rough sleeper.
Learn your Water Resistance
Some watches will stop working if they’re submersed even for a few seconds. Others are built to withstand the pressures of a deep-sea dive. You’ll want to select one that’s appropriate for your needs, and you’ll want to keep that in mind whenever you’re around water. Watches are built to last for decades or centuries – can you really be sure that you’re not going to be caught out in a torrential downpour during that time?
Even if your watch is advertised as water resistant, there is a chance that the seals and gaskets can fail over time. The water resistance of your watch can be checked by a professional with access to the necessary hardware.
Servicing
While you can conduct quite a lot of this maintenance yourself, it’s also worth occasionally taking it in for a professional examination. Find somewhere with a good reputation, and build a relationship with them. That way, you’ll have someone that you can trust in the event that some mishap should befall your prized timepiece.
