David Adamson Designer Jewelry

How to Care for Your Luxury Watch

It is often said that owning a fine timepiece is akin to owning a high end automobile. There are certain steps needed to ensure the joy derived from its use; lasts for many years to come. To be sure your timepiece provides you with years of reliability and precision: proper care, storage and maintenance are needed.

Protecting Your Watch from Damage

            If you wear your watch on a regular basis that means it is frequently exposed to the elements and therefore requires some protection from abuse and damage. Having the exterior of your timepiece cleaned professionally can ensure many years of service and pleasure.

Water Resistant and Water Proof Watches

            If a watch is water resistant or water proof it should be plainly stated on the watch. Note: never assume a watch is water resistant!  Water resistant means a watch is designed to resist but not entirely prevent the penetration of water. That means it Cannot be submerged in water. Some examples of appropriate times when a water resistant watch can be worn are: during light hand washing and if your caught in the rain. Even in these circumstances you want to wipe down the watch, to remove the moisture, as soon as you can.

            Water proof watches are Impervious to water. They have special parts like a screw-down crown and heavy duty rubber seals. If you take your waterproof watch underwater on a regular basis it would be wise to have it checked from time to time to verify the seals are secure. Additionally, keep in mind what kind of water your watch is entering; if it is salt water you should rinse it as soon as possible with fresh water to prevent corrosion. If you scuba dive with your watch it may need to be “pressure tested” to make sure it will be waterproof at various depths.

The Watch Band

            Many luxury watches come equipped leather straps. These aid in highlighting the beauty and elegance of the watch and therefore require special care. First thing to consider is that a leather strap should not be exposed to water; which weakens the strap and will cause it to tear. Perfume and cologne can discolor and weaken the leather as well; best to apply the perfume or cologne let it dry then put on your watch. Taking care to avoid wearing your watch in extreme temperatures can also extend the life of your leather strap.  Note: Care only extends the life of a leather strap. A good quality strap that is well cared for can last years.

Watch Storage

            How your watch is cared for when it is not being used is just as important as how you wear it. Proper storage in a watch box can ensure your watch always looks its best. If you have watch with an automatic or “self-wind” movement it may be best to invest in a good quality watch winder. A watch winder is a motorized watch box that keeps your fine timepiece ready to be worn without having to re-set it from the last time you wore it. This is especially suggested if you have more then one timepiece or don’t wear your watch frequently.

Watch Maintenance

            A luxury watch requires regular maintenance, which may include cleaning and lubrication of the movement. Not changing your car’s oil in ten years isn’t something to be proud of; the same should go for your fine timepiece. On average a mechanical movement needs to be serviced every 3-4 years. Quartz movements need batteries changed as soon as they stop working or give you the two second warning (the sweep second hand moves two seconds at a time); otherwise you risk it leaking acid in the watch which can cause catastrophic damage to the movement. If your watch needs repair or a new battery, by no means should you try to repair it yourself. Opening your timepiece in the wrong environment exposes the watch movement to dust and moisture which can erode and impact the reliability of the watch.  Also if not sealed properly it can leak moisture that would rust or corrode the electronics.  Always be sure to have your luxury watch examined by a reputable jewelry store.

If you follow these simple guidelines you will enjoy a lifetime of reliable service from your fine timepiece.