It is essential for watch wearers to understand how to properly maintain their timepiece. Below are some important tips to keep your watch in good working condition.
1.Maintenance cycle
The maintenance cycle for a watch varies based on factors such as the brand, function, frequency of wear, and environment. As a rule, it is recommended to have your watch maintained every 3-5 years to keep it running smoothly.
2.Maintenance process
The maintenance process begins by testing the accuracy of the watch and then disassembling the movement for inspection and cleaning. The watch case also needs to be cleaned and dried with a professional dryer before assembling it with oil.
3.Precautions when wearing
To avoid scratches, it is best not to wear a watch with other metal jewelry. Avoid wearing your watch during intense exercise, as this may lead to deformation and damage of its small and precise parts. It is also important to keep your watch away from high temperatures or strong temperature changes, as this can negatively affect its lifespan.
4.Daily care
If you have been in contact with seawater or swimming pool water, it is important to wash your watch immediately to prevent corrosion of the waterproof seal ring. Even if your watch is waterproof, it is not recommended to wear it while bathing as the water vapor can enter the watch and shorten its lifespan.
Additionally, there are certain situations when it is necessary to send your watch for repair and maintenance:
1.Excessive time error: While mechanical watches will naturally have some degree of error, if it exceeds the reasonable range, it is a sign that maintenance is required. It is recommended to have the movement cleaned and refueled if the error exceeds the daily range of ±45 seconds or -4/+6 seconds for certified movements.
2.Water or fog: Over time, the waterproof ring of a watch may degrade, leading to a loss of its waterproof function. It is recommended to have the waterproof performance of your watch checked regularly, at least every 3-5 years, and more frequently if you regularly engage in water sports. If your watch experiences water or fog inside, it is important to send it for professional maintenance to prevent further damage.
3.Damage to exterior parts: If your watch experiences bumps or knocks, you may need to polish the metal pieces, but if the lens is broken, it requires more comprehensive testing to ensure no debris falls into the movement and causes damage to its parts. If the lens is broken, stop the watch, remove the crown, and avoid dialing the needle or removing the broken glass by yourself.
4.Movement parts abnormal sound: If you notice abnormal sounds or changes in hand feel while wearing your watch, it is best to stop using it and seek professional maintenance. Hard shaking to drive the automatic chain can increase the risk of watch parts becoming stuck or experiencing abnormal sound.
By following these guidelines, watch wearers can keep their timepieces running smoothly and avoid further damage or costly repairs.