| Mechanical Watch care
& Maintenance
Manual winding or self winding/automatic watches need
special handling. The manufacturers have their own way of
taking care their products, but these FAQ apply to every
mechanical watch. If you have a question not listed here,
please feel free to contact Westime.
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Q: Why did my watch stop
after not wearing it for a few days?
A: Automatic and manual winding watch will stop if it
is not worn for a few days. Wind up the crown to make it run
again.
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Q: Do I have to wear my
mechanical watch everyday?
A: It’s best to wear a mechanical watch everyday or
try to wind it every 3 days. All the wheels need to be in
motion because when in motion it is actually oiling them up.
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Q: What time of day is
best time should I wind/set my watch?
A:
For manual winding watch, try
to wind up the watch at the same time everyday. Set a
routine, for example, every morning before putting it on.
Turn the crown until you meet the resistance when winding
the watch, including the self winding watches.
Remember to only turn the
hands clockwise when setting the time. Always set the day
and/or date on the watch in the daytime. The mechanism on a
day date watch is activated several hours during the night.
Making adjustments during those hours could jam the
mechanism.
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Q: Does my watch need
periodic check ups?
A: Mechanical
watches are designed to provide a lifetime of accurate and
reliable service. For maximum efficiency and to prevent
damage, a mechanical watch needs to be serviced every three
or four years depending on the manufacturer’s
recommendation. Because of the complexity of the mechanism
in a fine mechanical watch, it’s best to have it serviced by
an agent authorized by the watch manufacturer. They will
inspect your watch for any worn parts that may need
replacement, check whether it needs lubrication, and whether
perspiration or water, dust, etc., needs to be removed from
within the watch.
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Q: What does it mean
when my watch needs to be serviced?
A: All watches need
service, especially mechanical watches. Many steps have to
be performed to service a watch. First, the watch is opened
and the movement is removed. It is taken apart, down to the
very last screw. Then the parts are checked for wear and
tear. The old parts are replaced when necessary. Then all
the parts are cleaned, reassemble and lubricated. After
those steps, then the movement is regulated, so the watch
will run accordingly. If the watch is water resistant, the
water tightness is checked. The last step is polishing the
case and the bracelet. After performing all this steps, you
will get almost a brand new watch.
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Q: Why go through all
the hassle of servicing my watch if it is working fine?
A:
There are some good reasons.
First, the oil that keeps the watch running will break over
time. Un-lubricated watch parts can create friction. The
problem gets worse if the friction create microscopic fine
dust that will act as an abrasive to the movement. Another
reason, the case of the watch is expanding in response to
the hot and cold. This allows dust to enter the case through
the microscopic fine cracks. This happens even in the water
resistant watches that have protective gaskets.
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Q: How should I care for
my watch case and bracelet?
A:
Metal bracelets should be
washed carefully in water. If really dirty, use a soft
toothbrush with soap and water to brush away the dirt.
Finally, rinse with water and dry carefully with a soft
cloth. If your watch is not water resistant, be careful not
to get water on the case. Cases should be wiped gently with
a slightly moistened soft cloth and then dried carefully.
Leather straps should be
slightly loosened in the summer, when they may absorb
perspiration. A tight strap not only prevents the passage of
air over the strap undersurface but can also cause a
perspiration rash on the wrist. If the strap ever becomes
wet with perspiration, wipe it dry with a soft cloth.
When you take off your
watch, leave it in a well-ventilated spot. Never put it in a
sealed container when it is still damp with perspiration.
Avoid leaving your watch in direct sunlight. The strap color
may fade.
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Q: Is there any special
care should I give to my watch?
A: Your watch is a
precision measuring instrument. Treat it carefully, and it
will serve you well. Avoid undue shocks (such as dropping on
hard surfaces). Never wear mechanical watch while playing
golf or tennis because arm speeds excess of 70 mph can
damage the movement of the watch. Also, check your watch to
see if it is labeled “Water Resistant”, if not avoid all
contact with water. |
