- Watches must be protected from drops and water damage. These are the two most common causes of watch failure.
To avoid damaging your watch, pay special attention to the following points, especially for counterfeit watches or watches with unclear water resistance:
- Avoid water contact: Even if it’s marked “water-resistant,” do not wear it while showering, swimming, or in a sauna. Hot water and steam are most likely to damage the seals.
- Keep away from magnetic fields: Do not leave it near magnetic phone accessories, speakers, chargers, or induction cookers for extended periods. A mechanical watch may run noticeably fast or slow after being magnetized.
- Avoid impacts and severe vibrations: It’s best to remove the watch when exercising, lifting heavy objects, riding on bumpy roads, or using power tools.
- Do not open the back cover yourself: Dust and moisture entering can damage the movement and may also break the water seals.
- Adjust the time gently: Do not pull or twist the crown forcefully; after adjusting, press it back or tighten it completely.
- Avoid fast-setting the date on mechanical watches between approximately 9 PM and 3 AM: The calendar mechanism may be running during this time, and forcibly fast-setting can damage the gears. Set the time to 6 AM first, then adjust the date.
- Replace the battery promptly when the quartz watch runs out of power: For long-term storage, it’s best to remove the battery to prevent leakage and corrosion of the movement.
- Regular cleaning: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth; metal straps can be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth, but do not allow water to enter the case. Leather straps should be kept dry.
- Proper storage: Store in a cool, dry place, avoiding direct sunlight, and keep it separate from keys and jewelry to prevent scratches.
- Immediate action if water damage occurs: If the watch crystal fogs up, there are water droplets, or the timekeeping is abnormal, stop using the watch and send it for repair as soon as possible. Do not use a hairdryer to dry it.
If the water resistance rating, sealing condition, or workmanship cannot be confirmed, the safest approach is to use it as a non-waterproof watch.