An automatic watch is much more than just an accessory. It is a masterpiece of engineering, a delicate precision mechanism that not only tells you the time, but also reflects your style and personality. Unlike other timepieces, automatic watches require special care and meticulous attention if you want them to be with you for many years to come.

If you want it to have a long life, it is important to take special care of it and treat it with care. In this article, we’ll tell you 12 key tips for the maintenance of automatic watches.

12 tips for the maintenance of an automatic watch

Go to the technical service

Automatic watches require regular professional servicing, every five to ten years. During this service, the mechanism is cleaned, lubricated and, if necessary, calibrated. Regular servicing will ensure optimal functioning in the long term.

Treat your watch with care

Automatic watches are delicate and can be easily damaged. Avoid knocks and falls that may affect the mechanism. It is advisable not to wear them during sporting or work activities that may subject them to friction or impact.

Wind it up before adjusting it

When setting the time on your automatic watch, it is important to wind it before equalising it. This process preserves the mechanism and prevents damage to the gears. Be sure to wind it before setting the time.

Avoid setting the time between 10 a.m. and 2 a.m.

Avoid setting the time on your automatic watch between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. During this period, many mechanisms are designed to make gradual changes to the date and time. During this period, many mechanisms are designed to make gradual changes to the date and time. Making adjustments in this interval may damage the mechanism.

Do not wind the watch with it on

Avoid winding your automatic watch while wearing it. The crown of the watch is delicate and forcing it while it is on your wrist can twist or break it. Take off your watch and wind it gently.

Secure the crown before submerging the watch.

If your automatic watch is water resistant and you plan to submerge it, be sure to screw down the crown correctly before doing so. This will prevent moisture from entering the mechanism and prevent possible damage.

Do not handle the watch under water

Do not use the pushers or the crown of your automatic watch under water. The friction generated by operating them can allow water or moisture to enter the system, which may damage the mechanism. If it is necessary to use them, allow the watch to dry completely before screwing them back in.

Wash your watch with cold water and special soap.

If you need to clean your automatic watch, use cold tap water and a soap that will not damage the mechanism. Avoid using abrasive products that can damage metals. Do not use hot water, which can generate steam and affect the mechanism.

Avoid high temperatures and sudden changes in temperature

Protect your automatic watch from high temperatures and sudden changes. Avoid leaving it exposed to extreme heat, such as inside a car on a hot day. Sudden changes in temperature can cause condensation to form on the mechanism and damage it.

Avoid magnetic fields

Keep your automatic watch away from magnetic fields, such as electronic devices and loudspeakers. Exposure to magnetic fields can affect the performance of the watch and cause it to run incorrectly. If your watch becomes magnetised, it will need to be demagnetised at a specialised centre.

Store in a cool, dry place.

When not in use, store it in a dry, cool and dust-free place. It is advisable to use watch boxes or cases for safe storage.

Use it and wind it up regularly

For optimum performance, use your automatic watches regularly and wind them at least once a year. Regular use prevents oxidation and hardening of the mechanism. Enjoy your automatic watches and give them the use they deserve.

Ideal Joyeros is an official distributor of Swiss watch brands such as Omega, Hublot, Chopard or Breitling. We invite you to visit us in our boutiques.