How to Extend the Life of Your Traditional Watch? Best Practices for Use and Maintenance

Traditional watches, whether mechanical or quartz, remain timeless accessories that offer elegance and craftsmanship beyond the digital age. However, maintaining their performance and appearance requires proper care. In this blog, we will cover essential tips on how to use and care for your traditional watch, helping you extend its lifespan while preserving its beauty.

1. Avoid Exposure to Magnetic Fields

Modern life is filled with electronic devices such as phones, computers, and speakers that emit magnetic fields. Magnetic fields can significantly affect the accuracy of a mechanical watch, as they can interfere with the movement of the internal gears. To avoid this, store your watch away from magnetic sources or consider a model with anti-magnetic features.

2. Regular Servicing is Key

Just like cars, watches need regular maintenance to ensure they function properly. Mechanical watches should generally be serviced every 3-5 years by a professional. During a service, the internal lubricants are replaced, ensuring that all components work smoothly, thus preventing wear and tear.

3. Water Resistance is Not Permanent

Many traditional watches come with a water resistance rating, but it’s important to remember that this protection can wear down over time. The rubber seals that keep water out degrade, so it's wise to avoid prolonged water exposure, especially with hot water. You should also have your watch tested annually to ensure its water resistance is still intact.

4. Avoid Impact and Shocks

Though many watches are shock-resistant, it’s still essential to avoid strong impacts. Mechanical movements are made of tiny, delicate components that can become misaligned or damaged if the watch is dropped or knocked too hard. If you're participating in sports or high-impact activities, consider switching to a sports watch.

5. Adjust the Time Correctly

Adjusting the time is an essential routine for watch owners. However, mechanical watches should not have their time set between 9 PM and 3 AM, as this is when the date wheel is engaged. Changing the time during this window can damage the movement. Always handle the watch crown gently to avoid unnecessary strain on the internal mechanism.

6. Wear it Regularly

Mechanical watches are designed to be worn, and the movement inside relies on the energy generated from wearing it. If a watch is left unused for extended periods, the lubricants inside may dry up, causing the components to seize. Even if you have a collection of watches, make it a habit to rotate them and keep them running.

7. Store it Properly

When not wearing your watch, it’s essential to store it properly. Use a watch box with soft padding to protect it from scratches and dust. Consider storing the watch in a moisture-controlled environment, as humidity can damage the watch’s movement over time.

8. Replace the Battery on Time

For quartz watches, the battery is the power source. When the battery is low, or the watch stops working, replace it as soon as possible. Leaving a dead battery inside the watch for too long can result in leakage, which can corrode the internal components and lead to costly repairs.

Conclusion

By following these simple care guidelines, your traditional watch can continue to function and look as beautiful as the day you bought it. Watches are more than just timekeepers; they are symbols of personal style and craftsmanship. Proper maintenance will ensure that your timepiece remains a cherished accessory for years to come.

If you have any questions or need professional help maintaining your watch, feel free to contact our expert team for advice or services.

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