Summary:
1.Keep your watch in motion with an automatic winder
2.Regularly clean your automatic watch
3.Properly store your automatic watch
4.Service your watch: a key step in maintaining your automatic watch
5.Beware of clumsy handling
1. Keep your watch in motion with an automatic winder
An automatic watch receives the energy it needs to function through the movements of the wrist. If you don't wear it for several days, it may stop. This can be particularly troublesome if you own a complicated watch (such as a moon phase or perpetual calendar watch). In fact, horological complications are often tedious to restart and frequently require professional intervention.
A watch left idle for too long may also suffer premature wear on its mechanism. The watch oils can thicken or freeze, affecting the movement's proper functioning when restarted.
Using an automatic watch winder is crucial for maintaining an automatic watch, as it ensures your watch remains in motion when not worn. By simulating wrist movements, this rotating case keeps your watch perfectly calibrated and prevents premature ageing of the internal components. It ensures regular lubrication, guaranteeing optimal and smooth functioning of the movement's gears. This device is especially useful if you own several watches that you do not wear daily.
2. Regularly clean your automatic watch
Nothing is less elegant than a watch covered in dust and dirt. These can affect not only its aesthetics but also its mechanism. Therefore, make sure to clean your watch regularly, especially the crown and bracelet. To ensure effective maintenance of your automatic watch, use soft, non-abrasive cloths. You can also use a soft brush or a cotton swab to remove dust from hard-to-reach areas on the bracelet. By adopting a regular cleaning routine, you preserve not only the outward appearance of your watch but also the proper functioning of its internal mechanisms. We recommend using our Keller Trading microfiber watchmaker gloves. The microfiber provides a gentle touch and effectively absorbs impurities, capturing dust during your handling of your timepieces.For thorough cleaning or to address a specific issue, consult a professional watchmaker.
3. Properly store your automatic watch
The way you store your watch greatly affects its accuracy, performance, appearance, and consequently, its value. Therefore, ensure it is kept in a safe environment, away from potential dangers.
The main enemy of automatic watches is the magnetic field: it can seriously disrupt the mechanism. Chemicals also pose a threat; household products, cosmetics, and perfumes can damage your watch. Additionally, prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause various problems, such as discolouration, reducing its lifespan. Finally, while many automatic watches are water-resistant, excessive moisture can compromise the integrity of the seals and lead to moisture ingress, jeopardising the internal mechanism.
To protect your automatic watch, we recommend storing it in an automatic watch winder when it’s not on your wrist. Designed to have low magnetism, SwissKubik watch winders provide a secure space for your timepiece, shielded from shocks and unfavourable conditions.
Although the Startbox and Masterbox automatic watch winders are lightweight and compact, they are not designed for transport. For your travels, opt for a suitable travel case, such as the Travelbox. Versatile, this accessory will protect your watch throughout your journey. Once you arrive at your destination, it will keep your watch on time thanks to its winding module.
4. Service your watch: a key step in maintaining your automatic watch
To ensure the upkeep of your automatic watch, regular checks by a professional watchmaker are essential. After meticulously disassembling each part, they examine the condition of the movement, test its water resistance, and ensure that the components function perfectly. If any parts show signs of wear, they are replaced to guarantee optimal performance and extend the lifespan of the timepiece. Depending on the model and condition of your watch, this thorough check should typically be performed every 3 to 5 years.
While an automatic watch winder cannot replace this procedure, it is essential for the proper maintenance of your automatic watch. It helps extend the intervals between services and interventions by keeping the movement regular and preventing prolonged stoppage of the mechanism.
5. Beware of clumsy handling
Manually winding your watch can sometimes lead to accidents. You may drop your watch during winding or accidentally adjust it by pressing the wrong button. To minimise these risks, it's advisable to use an automatic watch winder. This ensures gentle and regular winding, limiting excessive handling and mistakes. You won’t need to adjust your watch yourself; the winder keeps it on time for you!
By following these tips, you will not only ensure the longevity of your watch but also preserve its history and sentimental value. It will continue to accompany you with elegance and precision over the years.
