Watch Maintenance: A Practical Owner's Guide

Watches are built to last generations, but only with basic, consistent care. Here's what every owner should know.

Service Intervals

Most mechanical watches benefit from a full service every 4–6 years, where the movement is cleaned, lubricated, and regulated. Skipping service for too long can allow dried lubricant to cause premature wear on movement components.

Water Resistance Isn't Permanent

Gaskets that keep water out degrade over time. Even a watch rated to 300m should have its water resistance tested annually if you swim or dive with it regularly — and avoid operating the crown or pushers while the watch is wet.

Storage Matters

Keep watches away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature swings, which can affect lubricants and, over time, dial finishes. A dedicated watch box or soft pouch protects against dust and scratches.

Cleaning Between Services

A soft, slightly damp cloth is usually sufficient for the case and bracelet. For metal bracelets, a soft-bristled brush can help clear debris from between links — just avoid submerging the watch unless its water resistance rating and crown position confirm it's safe to do so.

Automatic Watches and Wear Frequency

If you rotate between multiple automatic watches, consider a watch winder for pieces with complications like a perpetual calendar, where resetting the date is tedious. For simpler watches, hand-winding and resetting when you pick it back up is perfectly fine.

Treat your watch with the same care you'd give any precision instrument, and it will easily outlast the person who first wore it.