The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Luxury Watches

Posted on May 20th, 2023

Owning a luxury watch is a symbol of prestige, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance. These exquisite timepieces require proper care and maintenance to ensure they continue to perform flawlessly and retain their beauty for years to come. In this ultimate guide, Bentley's 1900 Jewelers presents essential tips and expert advice on how to care for your luxury watches. By following these guidelines, you can extend the lifespan of your cherished timepiece and preserve its value.

Storing Your Luxury Watch

Properly storing your luxury watch is essential for preserving its condition and ensuring its longevity. To protect your watch from dust, humidity, and potential damage, it is advisable to store it in a dedicated watch box or watch winder. These storage solutions provide a safe and controlled environment, shielding your watch from external elements that can impact its performance. Additionally, it is important to avoid exposing your watch to extreme temperatures, as this can affect the lubricants and materials inside. Magnetic fields can also interfere with the delicate movement of your watch, so it's best to keep it away from magnetic sources. By adopting proper storage practices, you can safeguard your luxury watch and enjoy its beauty for years to come.

Cleaning Your Luxury Watch

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the pristine appearance of your luxury watch. To clean your watch effectively, use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away fingerprints, dirt, and oils from the case, bracelet, and crystal. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could potentially scratch or damage the watch's surfaces. If your watch is water-resistant, you can use a mild soap and water solution to clean it more thoroughly. However, it is crucial to ensure that the crown is tightly screwed down and that the watch is dried thoroughly afterward to prevent any water damage. By incorporating regular cleaning into your watch care routine, you can keep your timepiece looking its best and maintain its overall value.

Water Resistance and Care

For watches with water resistance capabilities, proper care is necessary to maintain their integrity. Before exposing your watch to water, it is important to ensure that the crown is properly screwed down or pushed in to maintain the watch's water resistance. If your watch is specifically rated for diving, periodic pressure testing is recommended to ensure that it remains water-resistant at the specified depths. It is crucial to avoid exposing your watch to hot water or rapid temperature changes, as these can compromise the seals and gaskets, leading to water infiltration. By being mindful of water exposure and following the manufacturer's guidelines, you can protect the water-resistant features of your luxury watch and enjoy its functionality with confidence.

Servicing and Maintenance:

Regular servicing is vital for the longevity and optimal performance of your luxury watch. It is generally recommended to have your watch professionally serviced every 3-5 years or as advised by the manufacturer. During a professional service, the watch movement is carefully disassembled, cleaned, lubricated, and regulated to ensure accurate timekeeping. The watchmaker also inspects and replaces any worn-out gaskets and seals to maintain the watch's water resistance. Servicing not only ensures the smooth operation of the watch but also helps detect and address any potential issues before they escalate. By adhering to regular servicing intervals, you can extend the lifespan of your luxury watch and preserve its value.

Protecting the Watch Crystal

The watch crystal is a critical component that protects the dial and hands while providing a clear view of the time. To protect the crystal from scratches and damage, it is important to exercise caution in its handling and storage. Depending on the type of crystal your watch has (sapphire, mineral, or acrylic), certain precautions should be taken. Sapphire crystals, known for their exceptional hardness, are highly scratch-resistant but can still be susceptible to impact damage. Mineral crystals are more resistant to shattering but can be scratched more easily. Acrylic crystals are more flexible and less prone to shattering but are also more susceptible to scratching. It is advisable to avoid exposing your watch to rough surfaces, sharp objects, or activities that may subject it to excessive impacts. Applying a protective film or using a crystal guard can provide an additional layer of defense. By taking appropriate measures, you can help keep your watch crystal in pristine condition and maintain the clarity of your timepiece.

Bracelet and Strap Care

Proper care and maintenance of your watch bracelet or strap are crucial for preserving its appearance and durability. Metal bracelets can be cleaned using a soft brush and mild soapy water, ensuring that the solution reaches the crevices to remove any dirt or residue. After cleaning, thorough rinsing and drying are necessary to prevent moisture from accumulating and potentially causing corrosion. Leather straps should be wiped clean with a damp cloth and treated with a leather conditioner to maintain their suppleness and prevent drying or cracking. It is important to be cautious of excessive moisture, as prolonged exposure to water can damage leather straps. By adopting a regular cleaning and maintenance routine specific to your watch's bracelet or strap material, you can extend its lifespan and keep it looking pristine.

Regular Timekeeping and Winding

For automatic or mechanical timepieces, regular timekeeping and winding practices are essential. Automatic watches are self-winding, powered by the motion of the wearer's wrist. To ensure optimal performance, it is recommended to wear the watch regularly, as the movement relies on this motion to stay wound. When not in use, storing automatic watches in a watch winder can keep them fully wound and ready to wear. For manual-wind watches, gently winding the crown until you feel resistance is necessary to power the movement. However, it is important to avoid over-winding, as this can strain the delicate components of the movement. By incorporating regular timekeeping and winding practices into your routine, you can maintain the accuracy and functionality of your luxury watch.

By following these expert guidelines on caring for your luxury watches, you can ensure that your cherished timepieces remain in optimal condition and retain their value for generations. At Bentley's 1900 Jewelers, we understand the importance of maintaining and preserving these precious timepieces. Contact us at (954) 561-1769 or email us at [email protected] for any watch-related inquiries or to schedule a service. Let our experienced team assist you in the care and maintenance of your luxury watches, preserving their beauty and performance for years to come.