Whether you have just bought your first watch, are considering buying your first watch, or own a collection, it’s always good to go back to basics and think about how best to care for your timepiece. After all, the better you look after them, the longer they will last, and your favourite wristwatch could be with you for a lifetime. Whatever the initial purchase cost, there’s every reason to take good care of your watch.

Store your watch in its box

This may seem obvious, but storing your watch in its original box is an excellent option, yet most people opt for taking their watch off after a long day and leaving it on the kitchen counter or bedside table, where it isn’t protected from environmental factors and accidental damage. Start a new habit today and you could add years to your watch’s lifetime.

Be savvy around water & chemicals

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• Get to know your watch’s water resistance level, but be aware that the seal can weaken over time.
• We wouldn’t recommend cleaning the house or car while wearing your watch, as watches and cleaning chemicals are not a good combination.
• If you wear perfume or aftershave, we’d recommend spraying it on yourself and then waiting for it to dry fully before putting your watch on.
• Watches don’t like extremes of temperature, so avoid putting them in overly hot or cold conditions.

Clean your watch frequently

• Clean your metal watch case and bracelet frequently using a clean, soft, damp cloth. Dry the watch thoroughly afterwards.
• If your watch has leather straps, don’t get them wet, as moisture can damage them.
• If your watch is water-resistant, this doesn’t give you the green light to wash it in hot water – this can damage the watch.

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Service your watch frequently

Keep up-to-date with your watch services. The general guidelines are around every two to three years for a mechanical watch, and three to four years for a quartz watch, however this will vary on brand, model and how often it is worn. Services are an essential way to prevent things going wrong with your watch and keep them running well. If you need more information on services, please feel free to pop in and speak to a member of our friendly team.

Read the manual

Our care tips will apply to most watches, however there may be some extra tips and tricks that are specific to your watch, and you will find those in your watch manual.

Don’t open your watch

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Don’t be tempted to open your watch and take a look at the inside, unless you are an expert, as doing so could damage the watch, as well as letting dust and dirt particles inside to take their toll on the watch movement. If you have a problem with your watch, take it to a professional.

Remove your watch when it’s at risk

This may seem obvious, but people get lazy and end up leaving their wristwatch on during high-risk activities like DIY or gardening instead of removing it. Avoid scratches to the crystal and bracelet by placing your watch back in its box when it’s at risk of damage.

If you’re searching for your perfect watch, take a look at our selection here, or visit us in-store at one of our branches to try your favourites on.

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