How to Take Care of Your Watch at Home and When to Seek Professional Help

Taking care of your watch at home is a great way to keep it looking pristine and running smoothly. However, some watch care tasks are best left to professionals. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through simple at-home DIY watch care tips, and help you identify when it’s time to call in an expert for professional service.

DIY Watch Care Tips:

Regular Cleaning: One of the easiest ways to care for your watch at home is to clean it regularly. Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the case and bracelet, removing dirt, oils, and dust. If your watch has a water-resistant rating, you can also use a soft toothbrush and mild soap to clean more stubborn grime, but be sure to avoid submerging the watch in water unless you know it is safe to do so.
Proper Storage: Store your watch in a cool, dry place when you’re not wearing it. Avoid exposing your watch to extreme temperatures, as this can affect the movement and potentially cause condensation inside the case. Using a watch winder for automatic watches is a good idea if you don’t wear them daily, as it will keep the movement in motion and prevent the lubricants from drying out.
Avoid Magnetization: Modern gadgets like smartphones, speakers, and laptops all generate magnetic fields that can interfere with your watch’s movement. Keep your watch away from these devices to avoid magnetizing it, which can result in inaccurate timekeeping.
Wind Your Watch Properly: If you own a manual watch, wind it daily to ensure it keeps time accurately. Always wind your watch gently and stop once you feel resistance to avoid overwinding.

When to Seek Professional Help:

While regular at-home care can help maintain your watch, certain tasks should always be left to a professional. For example:

Movement Overhaul: If your mechanical or automatic watch is losing time or has stopped working entirely, it needs a professional overhaul to repair and restore the movement.
Battery Replacement: Replacing the battery of a quartz watch is best done by a professional to ensure the watch is resealed properly and retains its water resistance.
Water Resistance Testing: If your watch is designed for diving or water sports, it’s important to have its water resistance tested regularly. This involves replacing the seals and gaskets, which only a professional should handle.
Crystal Replacement: If the crystal (the glass covering the watch face) is cracked or scratched, it should be replaced by an expert to prevent moisture from entering the case and damaging the movement.

Taking good care of your watch at home can go a long way in maintaining its appearance and functionality. However, for more complex issues or regular servicing, it’s always best to rely on professional help.

For professional watch repair and servicing, please contact Sangamon Watches Repair Center today.