The Three Principles of Mechanical Watch Maintenance and One Crucial Consideration
Maintaining a mechanical watch is essential for its longevity and accuracy. However, each style of watch demands a specific approach to maintenance. By adhering to the right practices, your mechanical watch can serve you faithfully for years. Here’s a concise guide to the three principles of mechanical watch maintenance, along with an essential precaution to consider.
Principle of Time Adjustment for Mechanical Watches
After prolonged inactivity, a mechanical watch’s mainspring naturally unwinds, causing the watch to stop. To restart, it’s crucial first to wind the mainspring and then set the time. Typically, when the mainspring is at its most unwound, the hour and minute hands may run slow or fast. Therefore, it’s advised to wind the mainspring fully before adjusting the time, ensuring the watch has a consistent power source driving the hands. For automatic watches, manually wind them to about 80% capacity before setting the time.
Self-Cleaning and Maintenance Principle
Watches exposed to water activities require “maintenance,” especially after immersion in seawater or chlorinated water, which can erode and harden the waterproof gasket. Some maintenance tasks can be performed at home, such as gently cleaning the metal and waterproof rubber straps with a soft cloth dipped in soapy water, then rinsing and drying in the shade. However, avoid ultrasonic cleaning unless you’re sure of the frequency required, as incorrect usage can loosen internal components.
Watch Storage Principle
Whether used frequently or stored for long periods, it’s important to monitor your mechanical watch’s maintenance schedule. Typically, a mechanical watch requires servicing every 3-4 years to prevent lubricant from drying and the waterproof gasket from hardening. Neglecting these maintenance intervals can lead to mechanical failures and water ingress, significantly reducing the watch’s precision and eventually leading to costly repairs.
Attention to Battery Replacement in Quartz Watches
Besides mechanical watches, quartz watches, despite having fewer lubrication and waterproofing issues, should not be stored long-term with an old battery to prevent leakage and internal damage.
Complex Mechanical Watches and Quick-Set Buttons Precaution
When adjusting complex mechanical watches, it’s crucial to follow the provided instructions carefully. Improper use of quick-set buttons, especially between 8 PM and 4 AM when the gears are engaged for date change, can damage the movement. It’s advisable to adjust the hour hand to a safe position (between 5 and 7) before using quick-set features to prevent gear disengagement issues.
By adhering to these maintenance principles and taking due precautions, you can ensure your mechanical watch remains a reliable and elegant timepiece for many years.
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