Maintaining a Fine Timepiece
Many people underestimate the incredible craftsmanship that goes into creating a fine timepiece. However, there is an ever-growing population of enthusiasts who view their watch as work of art and a piece of true craftsmanship. They have an appreciation for advanced mechanical movements, unique dials, and even perfectly designed bracelets and cases. Watch Collecting has been a growing trend in recent years.
Collecting watches and passing them on to future generations is a way to carry on your family history. If well maintained, a fine time piece can withstand the test of time and be passed on for multiple generations to come. This week, we're going to share some great tips from one of TIVOL's very own watchmakers, Roger Middleton! He has some great insight for how to keep your watch in great shape between professional servicing visits.
Establish a Maintenance Schedule
Most mechanical watches should be serviced every 5 to 10 years.
Vintage watches that are worn regularly may require more frequent maintenance.
Quartz watches have longer service intervals of around 10 years.
Visit your jeweler or watchmaker every 6 to 12 months to check water resistance and clean the case and bracelet.
Regular Cleaning
Keeping the outside of your watch clean can prevent anything from getting inside as well as avoid premature wear of the bracelet.
Winding Mechanical Watches
Mechanical watches are powered by a mainspring and will need to be wound up to run.
To wind a manual watch, simply turn the crown while in the winding position until you feel resistance and it will no longer turn. Do not try to force the crown once resistance is felt. Wind the watch fully once a day to keep the watch running.
To power up an automatic watch, turn the crown 20 to 30 times in the winding position and then simply wear the watch. The motion of the watch on your wrist should be sufficient to keep the watch running if worn daily.
If the watch is worn daily, give the watch a full wind every two weeks to ensure it is at the top of its power.
Water Resistance
Some watches come with a screw down crown to improve its water resistance. Be sure that the crown is fully screwed down after unscrewing to wind and set the time.
If swimming with a water-resistant watch in chlorinated or salt water, immediately rinse the watch off with clean, fresh water and dry with a soft towel.
If condensation forms under the crystal or discoloration of the hands or dial is noticed, visit your watchmaker immediately for an emergency dry out and assessment of any damage.
General Tips
Avoid impact to the watch. Even if there is no noticeable harm to the exterior, internal parts may become damaged if the watch receives a shock.
Avoid permanent magnets. A watch can become magnetized if exposed to permanent magnets found in cell phones, speakers, and computers that we encounter in our daily life. If a watch begins to run erratically, it may be magnetized. Visit your watchmaker to have it demagnetized. If the magnetization is severe enough, a service to address the issue may be needed.
Chemicals found in cosmetics, fragrances and household cleaners can damage gaskets and leather straps or discolor the metal of a watch. It is recommended to wait until any fragrances or cosmetics are dry before putting on your watch.
It is recommended to not open your watch yourself as dust and debris can make its way into the movement. If you suspect something is wrong with your watch, visit your watchmakers and have them advise on the best course of action.
No matter what watch brands you love, today's tips will help you maintain the watch to last a lifetime. TIVOL is always here to help with servicing your timepiece as well. To learn more about our watch repair and maintenance services, click here.
