Below are watch care tips categorized for Quartz, Solar (e.g., Eco-Drive, Tough Solar, Solargraph), Automatic, and Mechanical watches. Each type has unique needs based on its mechanism, though some care practices overlap.
1) Quartz Watch
Quartz watches use a battery-powered electronic movement, making them reliable but sensitive to certain environmental factors.
- Battery Replacement: Replace the battery every 1-2 years to prevent leakage that can corrode the movement. Use a professional to ensure proper sealing.
- Magnetism Avoidance: Keep away from strong magnetic fields (e.g., speakers, smartphones), which can disrupt the quartz crystal or stepper motor.
- Water Resistance: Check the water resistance rating (e.g., 30m for splashes, 100m for swimming). Rinse with fresh water after saltwater exposure and ensure the crown is closed. Have gaskets inspected annually for water-exposed watches.
- Cleaning: Wipe the case and crystal with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove smudges. For metal bracelets, use mild soapy water and a soft brush, then dry thoroughly. Avoid chemicals that can damage coatings.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to prevent battery degradation or case fading. Use a watch box to avoid scratches.
- Shock Protection: Avoid dropping or extreme impacts, as shocks can damage the quartz crystal or circuit.
2) Solar Watch (Eco-Drive, Tough Solar, Solargraph)
Solar watches use light to charge a rechargeable cell, combining quartz accuracy with eco-friendly power. Proper light exposure and cell care are key.
- Light Exposure: Expose to natural or artificial light regularly to maintain charge. If stored for long periods, place under a light source (e.g., sunlight or LED) for a few hours monthly to prevent the cell from fully discharging.
- Battery Cell Care: Avoid complete discharge, as it can shorten the rechargeable cell’s lifespan (typically 10-20 years). If the watch stops, charge it fully before use. Replace the cell through a certified service center if it no longer holds a charge.
- Temperature Control: Avoid extreme heat (e.g., leaving on a car dashboard), as it can degrade the rechargeable cell. Don’t store in freezing conditions, which can slow the movement.
- Water Resistance: Verify the rating (many solar watches, like Tough Solar, are dive-rated). Rinse after saltwater exposure and check gaskets annually for water resistance integrity.
- Cleaning: Clean the crystal with a soft cloth to ensure light reaches the solar panel. For the case and bracelet, use mild soapy water for metal and a dry cloth for leather straps to avoid water damage.
- Storage: Store in a watch box in a dry environment. If storing long-term, ensure it’s partially charged and check every 6 months to maintain cell health.
- Shock and Magnetism: Protect from heavy shocks and magnetic fields, which can affect the electronic components or movement accuracy.
3) Automatic Watch
Automatic watches are self-winding mechanical watches powered by wrist motion, requiring regular care to maintain their intricate movements.
- Winding: Wear daily to keep the mainspring wound, or use a watch winder set to the correct rotation. If stopped, manually wind 20-30 turns to restart, then set the time.
- Servicing: Service every 5-7 years to clean and lubricate the movement. Friction from dirt or dried oil can reduce accuracy and wear parts.
- Water Resistance: Confirm the rating and avoid hot showers or saunas, which can compromise seals. Have gaskets checked annually for frequent water exposure.
- Cleaning: Wipe the case and crystal with a soft cloth. Clean metal bracelets with mild soapy water and a soft brush, drying thoroughly. Use a dry cloth for leather straps to prevent cracking.
- Storage: Store in a watch box to protect from dust and scratches. Avoid humid areas to prevent rust in the movement.
- Shock and Magnetism: Avoid extreme shocks (e.g., during sports) and magnetic fields (e.g., near electronics), which can disrupt the balance spring and affect timekeeping.
- Crown Care: Push or screw down the crown fully after setting to block dust or water. Stop winding when you feel resistance to avoid overwinding.
4) Mechanical Watch
Mechanical watches are hand-wound, with delicate components that require careful maintenance to ensure longevity and precision.
- Daily Winding: Wind fully each morning (20-40 turns) until you feel gentle resistance. Stop to avoid damaging the mainspring.
- Servicing: Service every 3-5 years to clean, lubricate, and adjust the movement. Old lubricants can harden, and tiny parts wear with use.
- Water Resistance: Check the rating and avoid water unless specified (many vintage mechanicals aren’t water-resistant). Test seals regularly, as they degrade faster in older watches.
- Cleaning: Use a soft cloth for the case and crystal. For metal bracelets, clean with mild soap and water, then dry completely. Wipe leather straps with a dry cloth to avoid moisture damage.
- Storage: Store in a watch box with silica gel in humid climates to prevent moisture buildup. Avoid extreme heat or cold, which can affect lubrication.
- Shock and Magnetism: Protect from drops or impacts, which can misalign the escapement. Avoid magnetic fields, which can magnetize the balance wheel, causing inaccuracy.
- Time Setting: Move hands forward gently when setting to avoid stressing gears. If resistance feels off, consult a watchmaker.
General Tips
- Environment: All watches should avoid prolonged sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity to preserve aesthetics and mechanics.
- Straps: Leather straps need conditioning every 6-12 months to stay supple. Metal and rubber straps are more durable but require cleaning to prevent grime buildup.
- Professional Help: If any watch runs erratically, stops, or feels off, avoid forcing parts and seek a professional to prevent further damage.
These tips draw from watchmaker guidelines and brand recommendations (e.g., Citizen for Eco-Drive, Seiko for automatics). If you have a specific model that you are unclear of, Whatsapp us to find out more!
