1. Regular Cleaning
Dust, dirt, and oils from your skin can build up on your watch over time, especially around the case, crown, and bracelet. Regular cleaning not only keeps your watch looking new but also prevents grime from affecting the movement.
• How to Clean Your Watch: For water-resistant watches, use a soft brush or cloth with a bit of warm soapy water to gently clean the case and bracelet. Be careful to avoid getting water into the crown or any openings. For leather straps, avoid water and opt for a leather cleaner or a slightly damp cloth. Always dry your watch thoroughly after cleaning.
2. Store Your Watches Properly
When you’re not wearing your watches, proper storage is key to avoiding damage. A watch left lying around unprotected is more susceptible to scratches, dust accumulation, and even mechanical issues.
• Watch Boxes and Winders: Store your watches in a dedicated watch box or case to protect them from dust and impact. For automatic watches, consider using a watch winder to keep the movement active, especially if you rotate through multiple timepieces.
3. Servicing and Maintenance
Just like a car, watches need servicing to ensure they continue working properly. Over time, the lubricants inside mechanical and automatic movements dry out, causing wear on the gears and other components.
• When to Service Your Watch: Most experts recommend having your mechanical or automatic watches serviced every 3 to 5 years. Quartz watches require less frequent servicing but may need a battery replacement every 1 to 3 years.
• Find a Trusted Watchmaker: Always take your watches to a reputable watchmaker or service center. If you aren’t familiar with the intricacies of your watch, avoid DIY repairs or battery changes, as it’s easy to damage the intricate mechanisms inside.
4. Be Mindful of Water Resistance
Even if your watch is water-resistant, it doesn’t mean it’s invincible. Over time, the seals and gaskets that keep water out can wear down, reducing the watch’s water resistance.
• Avoid Hot Water: Never expose your watch to hot water, such as in a shower or hot tub, as the heat can cause the seals to expand, allowing water to enter.
• Test Water Resistance: If you regularly wear your watch in water, it’s a good idea to have the water resistance tested every couple of years to ensure it remains effective.
5. Protect the Crystal and Case
Watch crystals, whether sapphire, mineral, or acrylic, are vulnerable to scratches and chips. Likewise, the case can get scratched if it’s bumped against hard surfaces.
• Prevent Scratches: Avoid wearing your watch during activities that could expose it to hard surfaces or rough materials. (Unless you don’t mind your watch having a little character.) If your crystal or case does get scratched, many watchmakers can buff out minor scratches or replace parts as needed.
• Invest in a Watch Protector: If you’re particularly concerned about scratches, you can invest in screen protectors designed for watch crystals, similar to those used for smartphones.
6. Wind and Set Your Watch Properly
When setting the time or winding a manual watch, it’s important to do so carefully to avoid damaging the movement.
• How to Wind: For mechanical watches, wind the crown slowly and smoothly. Never force the crown if it feels resistant, as this could cause damage to the gears. With automatic watches, it’s best to give the watch a gentle shake or wear it for a few minutes to get it started before setting the time.
Taking proper care of your watch collection will ensure that your timepieces last a lifetime, maintaining their beauty and precision. From regular cleaning and storage to professional servicing, these simple steps can keep your watches in excellent condition and ready to be worn and admired for years to come. A well-maintained watch not only holds its value but also becomes a treasured heirloom to pass down through generations.