The Essential Guide to Caring for Your Luxury Timepiece

A luxury watch is a sophisticated instrument built to last generations, but like any fine mechanism, it requires proper care to maintain its beauty, accuracy, and value. Whether it's a new acquisition or a cherished heirloom, here’s how to look after your timepiece:

Daily Awareness

• Avoid Shocks: While many watches are shock-resistant, severe impacts (like dropping the watch) can damage the delicate movement. Remove your watch during activities with a high risk of impact.
• Magnetic Fields: Strong magnets (found in speakers, tablets, clasps) can affect a mechanical watch's accuracy. Keep your watch away from them.
• Extreme Temperatures: Avoid leaving your watch in extreme heat (like a car dashboard) or cold for prolonged periods.

Regular Cleaning

• Wipe Down: Regularly wipe the case and crystal with a soft, dry microfiber cloth (like those available from HoroHub) to remove fingerprints and dust.
• Deeper Clean (Water-Resistant Watches Only): For watches with adequate water resistance (check your manual!), you can clean the case and metal bracelet with lukewarm water and mild soap, using a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely with a soft cloth. Never do this if you're unsure of the watch's water resistance or if it has a leather strap. Never operate the crown or pushers while the watch is wet.

Winding and Setting

• Automatics: If worn daily, an automatic watch will stay wound. If not worn, it will stop. Use a watch winder (available at HoroHub) or wind it manually according to the manufacturer's instructions (usually 30-40 turns of the crown).
• Manuals: Wind your manual watch fully at the same time each day, stopping when you feel resistance.
• Setting: Avoid changing the date when the time is between 9 PM and 3 AM, as this can damage the date mechanism on many movements.

Storage

When not wearing your watch, store it in its original box or a dedicated watch storage box (check out HoroHub's selection) to protect it from dust and scratches.

Water Resistance

Understand your watch's water resistance rating (WR). 30m usually means splash-resistant only. 50m allows for light swimming, while 100m+ is generally suitable for swimming and snorkeling (but not deep diving unless specified). Gaskets degrade over time, so have water resistance checked periodically, especially before exposing the watch to water.

Regular Servicing

Mechanical watches require periodic servicing (typically every 5-7 years, check manufacturer recommendations) to clean, lubricate, and replace worn parts. This ensures accuracy and longevity. Use authorized service centers or trusted specialists like those recommended by HoroHub.

Conclusion

Consistent care preserves not only the function and appearance of your luxury watch but also its value. Treat it well, and it will provide reliable service and enjoyment for many years to come.

Need accessories for watch care? Shop HoroHub's Watch Care selection