Watches can last a lifetime if they’re looked after properly and just like any valuable item you own, you should know or learn how to look after them correctly. I’ve put together this little guide to help you care for your watch and keep it in tip top condition.
Cleaning your watch
With the current situation, having clean and pristine jewellery is important to avoid the spread of the virus or other bacteria. Watches are a bit trickier because they can be old, delicate or simply a bit more difficult to clean. Don’t panic, there are ways to take care of them without causing damage to a treasured time piece. First, take a soft cloth and gently wipe down the strap to remove any dust and dirt and a cotton bud to clean between the links. If the strap is made of leather, always treat it really carefully and try to avoid getting it wet.
Get it serviced
Servicing your watch is important, especially if you have a quality watch. Just like a car, it’s essential to get it checked out at least every three years. You may have already noticed some “symptoms”. Maybe it’s not keeping time as well as it used to. During the service, all the parts of your watch will be thoroughly tested and cleaned and damaged components replaced.
Avoid direct sunlight
It may be hard at times, especially if you are a sun worshipper but avoiding direct sunlight is important. Firstly, because it can fade coloured parts but also damage glues, plastics and dry out leather. Another problem that comes from direct sunlight is the humidity from perspiration, indeed it can also cause wear on gaskets.
Avoid magnets
You may or may not know this, but magnets and watches don’t work well together. Watches can slow down or completely stop working if they become magnetised. Because most watches are made of tiny steel components, they can be affected if exposed to magnets over long periods of time. But don’t concern yourself too much if you have a more modern watch. Nowadays most watch brands have greatly improved this issue, thanks to components made with anti-magnetic properties.
A watch is a great fashion accessory that never fails to impress, although it’s essential that you learn to properly take care of it so you get at least a lifetime of wear from it.
So there's how to look after watches.
And you, do you have any tips that you would like to share with us?
Written in collaboration with Chapelle
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