Caring for your watch
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Good care depends on what's inside your watch. A mechanical movement needs something different from a quartz or solar one, so start by checking which type you have. You'll find it on the dial, the caseback or in your watch's manual.
Mechanical (hand-wound) watches
A hand-wound watch runs on energy stored in its mainspring, so it needs winding by hand.
- Wind it at about the same time each day, turning the crown until you feel resistance. Don't force it past that point.
- Take the watch off your wrist to wind it. This puts less strain on the crown.
- On many mechanical watches, avoid changing the date between 9pm and 3am, when the date mechanism is already engaged.
Automatic (self-winding) watches
An automatic watch winds itself as you move, using a rotor inside the case.
- Wear it regularly and it will keep running. Left off the wrist, it will stop once its power reserve runs out.
- If it has stopped, give the crown a few turns to start it before you set the time.
- If you rotate between several watches, a watch winder keeps an automatic running between wears.
Hand-wound and automatic watches
Both run on a mechanical movement, so they share the same delicate parts and need the same extra care.
- Keep your watch away from strong magnets, such as speakers, tablet covers and magnetic bag clasps. Magnetism can make a watch run fast.
- Avoid hard knocks, and take your watch off for sport or heavy work.
- Oils inside the movement age over time. Most brands recommend a full service every few years, so check your watch's manual for its interval.
Quartz watches
A quartz watch runs on a battery, which makes it accurate and low-maintenance.
- On many quartz watches, when the seconds hand starts jumping in four-second steps, the battery is running low.
- Replace a flat battery promptly. An old battery left inside can leak and damage the movement.
- Every battery change is a good moment to have the seals checked, as the case is opened.
Solar watches
A solar watch charges from light, both natural and artificial, and stores the energy in a rechargeable cell.
- Store it somewhere light, not in a drawer, so it stays charged.
- If it stops, leave it in bright light to recharge before resetting it.
- Charge it near a window rather than on a car dashboard, where heat can build up.
Water resistance
A water resistance rating applies to a new watch in ideal conditions, and seals age with wear.
- Never use the crown or pushers underwater.
- If your watch has a screw-down crown, make sure it's fully closed before it gets wet.
- Rinse your watch in fresh water after swimming in the sea or a pool.
- Keep it off in saunas, steam rooms and hot showers. Heat can weaken the seals.
Straps and bracelets
- Keep leather straps away from water, perfume and lotions, and let them air-dry if they get damp. In the UAE's heat, a leather strap on a watch worn daily will need replacing more often.
- Clean metal bracelets with a soft brush and a mild soap solution, as long as the watch is water-resistant.
- Wipe the case with a soft, dry cloth to remove sweat and fingerprints.
Storing your watch
Keep your watch in its box or a soft pouch, away from other watches and jewellery that could scratch it. Store it somewhere cool and dry, out of direct sun (unless it's solar).
When to bring it in
If your watch runs noticeably fast or slow, stops unexpectedly, or has moisture under the crystal, bring it to any Watch Works store for an assessment.
