How to Deal with a Magnetized Mechanical Watch & Which Watches Are Prone to Magnetization
Preventing Magnetization: Vintage watches and those with vintage movements are particularly prone to magnetization due to materials not made with modern techniques, offering weaker antimagnetic properties. Moreover, ultra-thin watches are susceptible to being magnetized because the small space within the movement makes it difficult to implement standard antimagnetic measures, such as thicker cases to block magnetic fields.
Basic Antimagnetic Knowledge for Mechanical Watches:
1) Antimagnetic Specifications: Japanese mechanical watches typically come in three antimagnetic variants: unmarked, standard antimagnetic, and enhanced antimagnetic. The unmarked variant can resist a magnetic field of 1600A/m (20 gauss), standard antimagnetic (marked with an inverted “U” and a horizontal line) can resist 4800A/m (60 gauss), and enhanced antimagnetic (marked with an inverted “U” and two horizontal lines) can resist 16000A/m (200 gauss). Rolex’s MILGAUSS model, for example, boasts antimagnetic capabilities up to 100000A/m, setting the bar high for antimagnetic watches.
2) Magnetic Field Attenuation with Distance: The intensity of a magnetic field decreases with the square of the distance from the source. For watches with basic antimagnetic properties, staying more than 5cm away from magnetic objects is generally safe. Even watches without antimagnetic markings can be kept safe by maintaining a distance of 10cm or more.
3) Common Sources of Magnetism: Everyday items such as mobile phones, telephone handsets, computers, electric razors, radios, bag clasps, refrigerator doors, induction cookers, magnetic bracelets, and magnetic pillows can magnetize a watch.
The Harm of Magnetization on Mechanical Watches: Magnetization alters the oscillation frequency of the balance spring and wheel, affecting the watch’s timekeeping. Symptoms of a magnetized watch can range from slight inaccuracies to severe time deviations.
Diagnosing a Magnetized Mechanical Watch: Suspecting magnetization can be distressing. A simple test involves bringing a mechanical watch close to a compass. If the compass needle deviates significantly, the watch is likely magnetized. Note that steel-made watches may cause slight movement in the compass needle due to their own metallic composition, but this movement should be minimal.
In Summary: Understanding which watches are prone to magnetization and how to diagnose and prevent it can save watch enthusiasts from unnecessary worry and preserve the accuracy and longevity of their timepieces. Proper care and precautionary measures can significantly reduce the risk of magnetization.
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