It’s a well-known fact among watch enthusiasts that while watches may be water-resistant, t

It’s a well-known fact among watch enthusiasts that while watches may be water-resistant, they are not immune to vapor. Over time, a watch’s water-resistant gasket can age and its protective capabilities diminish. This becomes especially apparent in high-humidity conditions, such as during the rainy season, in saunas, or air-conditioned spaces, where watches are more susceptible to moisture intrusion.

In the unfortunate event that your watch does become water-logged, the immediate question arises: What to do next?

Certainly, prompt action is necessary to prevent the movement from rusting and to mitigate any lasting damage. But, is using a hairdryer on your watch an effective solution?

If you attempt to use a hairdryer without opening the watch’s case back, you’ll likely notice that while the moisture seems to disappear temporarily, it soon condenses again on the inside of the crystal. This is because the water droplets are merely transformed into vapor by the heat, not actually removed from the watch’s interior.

Therefore, if you decide to use a hairdryer to dry out a water-logged watch, it’s crucial to first open the case back. For quartz watches, it’s also advisable to remove the battery to prevent any potential damage or explosions due to high heat.

When drying the watch, it is important to avoid using the highest heat setting on the hairdryer. A moderate temperature will suffice. Continue drying until all moisture has evaporated, and then carefully reassemble the watch. This is also an opportune moment to inspect the gasket for any signs of aging or damage, ensuring a tight and secure fit when screwing the case back on.

In conclusion, while a hairdryer can assist in drying a water-logged watch, it should be used with caution and proper preparation. Opening the case back and checking the condition of the sealant are essential steps in this process. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so keep your watch away from high-humidity environments when possible.