The basics of watchmaking

A watch is much more than just a simple accessory: it’s a mechanical jewel whose components, sometimes thinner than a hair, require care and attention.
Please find below some easy-to-follow advice that can help maintain its daily performance, extend its lifespan and limit repair costs.

General advice applicable to any type of watch, whether mechanical or quartz.

Beware of variations in temperature
Movements do not tolerate extreme temperatures well. Avoid exposing your watch to excessive heat sources (prolonged direct sunlight, closed cars in summer) or to very low temperatures for a long time. This can damage the battery of quartz watches or the oil and grease of mechanical watches.

Avoid shocks and vibrations
The inner mechanism and casing are sensitive. Therefore, avoid wearing your watch during activities that cause vibrations or shocks to your hand – for example, mountain biking or certain manual tasks.

Regular water resistance testing
Have your watch’s water resistance checked every two to three years, as the gaskets can wear naturally over time, even if your watch is not exposed to water very often.

Regular cleaning of the case and bracelet
To preserve the appearance of your watch, clean it regularly, especially after exposure to chlorine or salt.
Clean the metal parts with warm, soapy water and dry thoroughly.
Avoid contact with water on leather straps; a soft cloth lightly dampened with mild soap is sufficient. For optimal care, occasionally use a leather care product.

Periodic check by a professional
In the event of an anomaly – whether it’s a difference in time, unusual resistance to the crown or pushers, or a malfunction in the mechanisms – entrust your watch to an authorised watchmaker.
Even if there are no obvious signs, a complete service every five years is recommended to preserve the precision and longevity of your timepiece.

Special characteristics of mechanical watches

Whether hand-wound or automatic, mechanical watches require special attention due to the complexity of their movements.
They contain a large number of components that require extreme precision and meticulous adjustments.

Regular winding
For both hand-wound and automatic watches, it is recommended to wind them daily, ideally when you first put them on your wrist.
Although some are designed to run for several days without intervention, their chronometric accuracy is optimal when the mainspring is fully charged.

Like any mechanical system, a watch contains oil and grease that must be kept on the move. It is therefore best not to leave a watch stationary for more than three months.
For automatic models, winding boxes allow them to be stored while ensuring their proper functioning.

Protect your watch from magnetic fields
While precision watches can tolerate some magnetic interference, they remain sensitive to the powerful fields generated by certain electromagnetic devices, such as speakers, induction hobs or electric motors.
To maintain their accuracy, always keep your watch away from these sources of magnetisation.

Special characteristics of quartz watches

Although easier to maintain, quartz watches require some precautions to optimise their lifespan.

Regular battery change
Promptly replace the battery as soon as you notice it slows down or stops working to prevent any leaks that could damage the mechanism.

By following this easy-to-follow advice and these precaution measures, you will not only preserve the appearance and reliability of your watch, but also the watchmaking heritage it embodies.
Taking care of your watch means extending the pleasure of wearing it every day.