Proper storage and care are key to preserving the beauty and functionality of your mechanical watch. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a new owner, knowing how to store and maintain your timepiece can prevent unnecessary wear and keep it ticking for years to come.
In this guide, we'll share essential tips to help you protect your watch, ensuring it remains in pristine condition no matter how often you wear it (or as some of you are guilty - don't 😂).
Skip to the 5 general tips at the end of this article if you're new.
4 detailed tips to properly store and care for your mechanical watch.
Storing your mechanical watch properly is just as important as wearing it, ensuring its precision and longevity for years to come.
1. Keep moisture at bay (especially if you're based in Singapore!)
Condensation will develop when there’s water in the movement. When we wear it, heat from our body actually causes the condensation. To prevent any water or moisture, it is the gaskets/rubber seals in the watch that help keep water out. Overtime these gaskets can either dry out or flatten, hence causing the watch to lose its waterproofing properties.
It is thus important to send your watch for servicing - as servicing allows these gaskets to be changed out and the waterproofing to be tested for your watch.
Moreover, repositioning the crown securely after setting the time can prevent water from entering the case through the crown aperture.
In Singapore's humid climate, it's crucial to avoid storing your mechanical watch in general areas with high moisture levels, as the humidity can lead to condensation build-up (and where there's risk of condensation, there's risk of rust and degradation!).
To keep moisture levels in check for your watch in Singapore's humid climate, consider storing your timepiece in a dry box or a dehumidifying cabinet specifically designed to protect delicate items. Additionally, you can use silica gel packets or other moisture-absorbing products inside your storage area to further reduce humidity and prevent condensation.
Understanding the waterproofing capabilities of your watch is crucial, especially since certain vintage or dress watches are not designed to be waterproof. Therefore, handle them with care.
These servicing and storage measures help maintain a dry environment for your mechanical watch, ensuring your watch remains free from rust and water damage.
2. Protect your mechanical watch from magnetic fields and electronic interference.
The precision of your mechanical watch can be affected by magnetic fields produced by powerful magnets as well as common electronic devices such as smartphones, speakers, and laptops. Additionally, passing through airport body scanners and using contactless payment machines can also subject your watch to strong magnetic fields.
Prolonged exposure can cause the delicate components inside your watch to become magnetised, leading to erratic timekeeping or even complete stoppage. To protect your watch, it's essential to keep it at a safe distance from strong magnetic sources or having your watch regularly demagnetised by a professional.
P.S. Magnetic fields will still impact anti-magnetic watch models.
3. At-home mechanical watch maintenance: caring & cleaning things you need.
Regular cleaning is essential for keeping your watch in optimal condition. At home, you can gently wipe down the exterior with a soft cloth helps remove dust and debris, to keep your watch looking good. It also aids in preventing and slowing down the accumulation of rust, particularly for watches with bracelet straps.
However, self-care has its limitations; internal components still require professional attention to ensure accuracy and longevity. If you are an untrained specialist, we do not recommend at-home tools to pry open your watch. Extreme self-maintenance can lead to overlooked issues, so it’s important to complement your care routine with regular professional servicing to address any hidden problems.
As for the tools you need, a soft microfibre cloth is ideal for wiping down the case and bracelet, removing fingerprints and dirt without scratching the surface. For more thorough cleaning, a soft-bristled brush can help reach into crevices, especially around the bezel and lugs. Additionally, silica gel packets can be useful for storing your watch in a dry environment, protecting it from moisture.
5 more general care tips for your mechanical watch.
If you're a beginner and you just got your first mechanical watch, firstly, welcome to the community. Secondly, this reinforcing guide if made for you.
1. Avoid moisture at all costs, or it will cost you.
It bears repeating. Keep your watch dry and in controlled environments. We see our fair share or humidity damage from distraught customers, and we don't want this to happen to you.
To protect your mechanical watch, always store it in a dry place. Moisture can damage the internal components and affect its performance, as we've already highlighted above.
2. Keep your watch clean at home.
Regularly wipe down your watch with a soft microfibre cloth to keep it clean. This helps to remove dirt and oils that can accumulate on the watch's surface, preserving its appearance and functionality.
3. Magnet protection and safety is key.
Keep your watch away from magnets. Exposure to magnets can interfere with the watch's movement and accuracy, potentially causing it to malfunction. Note that even regular devices like laptops and cellphones also emit magnetic fields. Avoid laying your mechanical beside or closer to electronic devices and charging stations.
4. Service your watch rgularly
To maintain your watch’s performance, have it serviced every few years (manufacturers suggest every 3-5 years). Regular maintenance by a professional ensures that all components are in good working order and helps to prevent potential issues.
Psst. If you found this post helpful so far, don't miss our comprehensive guide on mechanical watch servicing.
Properly keeping and caring for your mechanical watch is key to its longevity.
Regular maintenance, proper storage, and careful handling are key to preserving the accuracy and longevity of your mechanical watch. While self-care practices like cleaning and avoiding magnetic fields are essential, they have their limits.
For comprehensive care, professional servicing is a must. So, if your watch needs a thorough check-up or repair, don't wait—get in touch with us at any time for expert servicing! ❤️
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