How to Care for Your Watch and Make It Last a Lifetime
Introduction
A quality watch is built to last but only if you take care of it. Whether you own a casual everyday piece or a cherished luxury timepiece, proper maintenance will keep it looking great and running accurately for years, even decades. Here's everything you need to know.
1. Clean Your Watch Regularly
Dirt, sweat, and oils from your skin can build up on your watch over time, dulling its appearance and potentially damaging the strap or case. To clean your watch:
- Wipe the case and crystal with a soft, lint free cloth after each wear
- For metal bracelets, use a soft toothbrush with mild soapy water to clean between links, then rinse and dry thoroughly
- For leather straps, avoid soaking, wipe gently with a slightly damp cloth and allow to air dry
- For rubber or silicone straps, rinse with clean water and dry completely
2. Store It Properly
When you're not wearing your watch, where you keep it matters. Follow these storage tips:
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity
- Use a watch box or soft pouch to protect against dust and scratches
- Keep watches away from strong magnetic fields (speakers, laptops, phones) as magnets can affect movement accuracy
- If storing for a long period, wind manual watches occasionally to keep the movement lubricated
3. Respect Water Resistance Ratings
Not all watches are created equal when it comes to water exposure. Always check your watch's water resistance rating:
- 30m / 3 ATM: Splash proof only, no swimming or submersion
- 50m / 5 ATM: Suitable for swimming in shallow water
- 100m / 10 ATM: Suitable for recreational swimming and snorkeling
- 200m+: Suitable for diving
Even water resistant watches should be rinsed with fresh water after exposure to saltwater or chlorine.
4. Protect the Crystal
The crystal (the clear cover over the dial) is one of the most vulnerable parts of your watch. To protect it:
- Avoid knocking your watch against hard surfaces
- Mineral crystal scratches more easily than sapphire, handle accordingly
- Minor scratches on mineral crystal can sometimes be buffed out with a watch crystal polish
5. Service Your Watch Periodically
Like a car, a watch benefits from periodic servicing. For mechanical and automatic watches, a service every 3 5 years is recommended. This includes cleaning, lubrication, and checking for worn parts. Quartz watches need a battery replacement every 1 2 years and occasional servicing.
6. Handle the Crown with Care
The crown (the small knob on the side used to set the time) is a common entry point for moisture and dust. Always push the crown back in fully after adjusting the time, and never operate it while the watch is submerged in water.
7. Rotate Your Watches
If you own multiple watches, rotate them regularly. Wearing the same watch every day puts more wear on the strap and movement. Giving each piece a rest extends its lifespan significantly.
Conclusion
A little care goes a long way. With the right habits, your watch will remain a reliable, beautiful companion for years to come. Browse our collection to find your next timepiece and wear it with confidence knowing how to keep it at its best.