Learning about watch care is an important step for any watch owner. A timepiece is so much more than just a tool or a fashion accessory. Your watch is your loyal companion that sticks with you through thick and thin. It’s part of your personal style, a status symbol, and in many cases, a store of significant monetary value. Of course, many watches also carry significant sentimental value, and you can’t put a price on that. Follow these three crucial watch care tips to keep your watch ticking for many years to come.

1. Keep It Clean

A sparkling watch looks great, but that’s not the only reason why regular watch care is necessary. Over time, sweat, dirt, and other undesirable materials can lead to corrosion, rust, and/or discoloration, and microscopic materials can even infiltrate the timepiece’s interior if you go too long without cleaning. We recommend having your watch cleaned professionally if it gets too dirty, but some regular maintenance should prevent that from being necessary. 

Water-resistant watches can typically be cleaned with a soft-bristled toothbrush and some antibacterial soap. If your watch isn’t water-resistant, you can use a microfiber cloth, Q-tips, and toothpicks to remove grime.

2. Get It Serviced

Although it’s true that regular watch care will prevent common issues, one of the most essential but often overlooked watch care tips is that you should have your timepiece serviced by a professional every 3 to 5 years, on average, and more frequently if you use your watch for diving, sports, or other demanding physical activities. You should also get your watch serviced if you notice any irregularities, such as reduced precision or visible interior moisture.

3. Avoid Potentially Harmful Environments

Sometimes prevention is better than the cure. Many problems with watches are caused by owners who weren’t aware of a timepiece’s vulnerabilities. For example, an important watch care step is knowing the water-resistance of your watch (or lack thereof). Our water-resistance guide outlines how and where you can use your water-resistant watch.

Water is one of the major causes of watch damage, but it’s not the only one. You should also avoid magnets, temperatures below 32˚F or above 140˚F, direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time, and any product that contains chemicals, such as cleaning supplies or cologne/perfume. Additionally, it’s an obvious one, but be very careful not to drop your watch, especially if it’s not shock-resistant!

Contact Our Experts for More Maintenance Tips

These watch care tips are so easy, and they’ll make a big difference in your timepiece’s condition and lifespan. If you have any questions about watch care, please check our other watch maintenance tips or contact us to speak with one of our friendly in-house watch experts. Follow our watch blog for more informative content, and get a better deal on authentic luxury watches at Watch Warehouse!