An automatic watch is a precise mechanical device that requires regular care to maintain its accuracy and elegant appearance. care A watch's durability and reliability are crucial. Caring for your watch affects the appearance of the case and dial, maintains accurate timekeeping, and extends the life of the movement. Simple habits, such as avoiding extreme conditions and cleaning regularly, will keep your automatic watch running smoothly for many years.
What is an automatic watch and why does it require care?
An automatic watch is a type of mechanical watch (without a battery) in which the mainspring tension is provided by a rotor that moves with the movement of the owner's wrist. It's a complex movement composed of numerous gears, a balance spring, and other precision components. Thanks to this "living" nature, an automatic watch constantly works, whether we wear it or put it aside for a few days. However, every movement is subject to natural wear and tear: microscopic dirt, drying grease and minor shocks can negatively impact its performance in the long run. Therefore, regular maintenance (cleaning the interior and lubricating the mechanism) and avoiding harmful factors will ensure a long life for your watch. This is how most of our watches work—including all Horizon i Nebula.
How to care for an automatic watch every day?
Proper use of an automatic watch has a significant impact on its durability, accuracy, and aesthetic appearance. A few simple habits can reduce the risk of damage and extend the life of the movement.
Wearing a watch correctly
- A watch should fit comfortably on your wrist – neither too tight nor too loose. When putting it on or taking it off, be careful not to strike the case, crown, or bracelet against hard surfaces. Before bathing, swimming, or coming into contact with water, always check that the crown is properly pushed in or screwed down, if the watch's design requires it. When setting the watch down, avoid leaving it on the edge of furniture or in places where it could fall.
Protection against impacts and shocks
- Automatic movements are equipped with shock-absorbing systems, but they remain precise mechanical structures. A strong impact or a fall can cause the movement to deregulate or damage its components. Exercise extreme caution during physical activity, renovation work, or other activities that expose the watch to violent shocks.
Contact with water and temperature
- Moisture is one of the greatest threats to a watch's movement. Always use your watch according to its declared water resistance rating. After contact with salt or chlorinated water, rinse the case with clean water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.
- It's equally important to avoid sudden temperature changes. Moving a watch from a very cold to a hot environment can cause condensation to form inside the case. Therefore, we do not recommend using an automatic watch in a sauna, hot tub, or other high-temperature and high-humidity environment.
Avoiding magnetic fields
- Strong magnetic fields can affect the movement and cause inaccuracies. It's best to keep your watch away from loudspeakers, magnets, power tools, or other devices that generate strong magnetic fields. Prolonged exposure can lead to magnetization of the movement's components, requiring demagnetization at a service center.
Good user habits
- When setting the time and date, avoid manually changing the date during the night, typically between 9:00 PM and 3:00 AM, when the mechanism automatically prepares for the date change. Doing so may damage the calendar mechanism.
- If your watch isn't worn regularly, it's a good idea to periodically wind it or crank it by hand according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This ensures the lubricants are evenly distributed and the movement remains in good working order.
How to wind an automatic watch?
Automatic watch does not require daily manual winding, if you wear it on your wrist most of the day. The movement of your hand ensures it winds automatically. However, if the watch stops (e.g., due to prolonged non-use), it is worth replacing it. gently tighten by hand. To do this, unlock the crown to the winding position and turn the crown slowly (usually 7-10) in a clockwise direction (if the movement is bi-directional, you can turn it forwards and backwards). Do not turn the crown all the way! Maintain a moderate spring tension – stop winding when you feel significant resistance. Excessive, rapid, or full winding can lead to excessive tension and accelerated wear of the movement's components. When in doubt, consult the manufacturer's instructions – some automatics don't have a hand-winding function, while others require a specific winding method. The general rule is: wind slowly and carefully, feeling the spring's resistance, and don't force it to the limit.
How to store an automatic watch?
Correct storage watch apart from the wrist is another element of taking care of it:
- Box and case: The safest place is in the original box or a dedicated watch case/box. It's a good idea to store your watch on a soft cushion, resting on your wrist – the cushion will maintain the natural shape of the strap or bracelet. If you don't have the original box, use a dedicated case or collector's box. These will protect the watch from dust, moisture, and accidental impacts.
- Watch position: When placing your watch in a box or on a pillow, hold it in a "gently rounded" position – as if it were on your wrist. Never place the watch face down to avoid scratching the glass. Also, avoid placing the watch on its side (on its crown) – this can damage the crown or break the seal. Leaving the watch lying flat or vertically for an extended period without proper support can disrupt the movement, causing the watch to accelerate or decelerate significantly.
- Protection against dust and moisture: Store your watch in a dry, cool place. Away from heat and moisture sources, and away from devices that generate strong magnetic fields. Even in its box, a little dust can accumulate inside, so it's a good idea to air it out occasionally or wipe the outside with a soft cloth.
- Watch winder: If you own one or more automatic watches, consider rotomat – a special mechanical stand that slowly rotates the watch, mimicking the movement of your wrist. Thanks to the winder, watches remain wound and ready to work even when you're not wearing them. This solution extends the life of the lubricants – the watch's movements constantly keep the oils in motion and prevent them from drying out. If you don't want to keep your watch constantly in motion, it's important to gently wind it every few days or wear it for a few minutes, even if you're not currently wearing it. This helps prevent the mechanism from settling.
How to clean an automatic watch?
Regularly cleaning the exterior of your watch helps maintain its aesthetic appearance and prevents dirt from accumulating.
Cleaning the case and bracelet
Cleaning the case and glass: To clean the case and glass, use a soft, lint-free cloth, preferably microfiber. If the watch is waterproof, you can lightly dampen the cloth with water and mild soap and carefully wipe the metal parts of the case. After cleaning, dry the watch thoroughly with a dry cloth. Finally, polish the glass and metal surfaces. Avoid using strong detergents and chemicals, which could damage the seals or protective coating.
Steel bracelet: For watches with a steel bracelet, it's a good idea to detach it from the case if the design allows it. The bracelet can be washed in lukewarm water with a small amount of soap, then cleaned between the links with a soft brush. After washing, rinse and dry thoroughly. We don't recommend using toothpaste, bleach, or other abrasives, which can dull the steel surface or affect its color.
Cleaning watch straps
Leather strap: Leather is a material that requires special care. Do not soak the strap in water. A dry or slightly damp cloth is sufficient to remove dirt. Periodically, you can use a specialized leather care product to help maintain its elasticity and reduce the risk of cracking. After cleaning, let the strap dry naturally, away from heat sources.
Textile and silicone strap: Nylon, silicone, or other synthetic straps can be cleaned in lukewarm, soapy water. After soaking briefly, simply scrub the surface gently with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and allow to dry. Silicone straps can also be wiped with a damp cloth and a small amount of dishwashing liquid.
What to avoid when cleaning your watch?
When cleaning your watch, do not use solvents, gasoline, bleach, or jewelry polishes. These may damage the seals, case, or glass. Drying the watch in direct sunlight, on a radiator, or in a hairdryer is also not recommended. After cleaning, ensure the crown and pushers are securely fastened. Avoid pressing the function buttons when the watch is wet.
The most common mistakes made by automatic watch owners
- No service required: Many watch owners postpone a complete watch inspection until later. However, failure to perform regular servicing every 3–5 years can lead to wear and tear of the movement's components and malfunction. Symptoms such as significant time fluctuations or a reduced power reserve are signs that it's time to visit a watchmaker.
- Incorrect storage conditions: A watch left in a damp or hot basement, on a windowsill, or near a magnetic field will quickly lose its properties. Moisture corrodes components, and heat can weaken seals.
- Exposure to magnetic fields: Ignoring warnings about strong magnets (speakers, magnetic refrigerators) can completely demagnetize the balance spring. This could cause the watch to lose its speed permanently or even stop altogether – repair requires professional demagnetization.
- Winding too hard: Some people, out of zeal, wind their watch "fully." However, turning the crown all the way in causes excessive mainspring tension and accelerates wear. It's better to wind the watch slowly a few times and see if it starts immediately.
- Ignoring signs of wear: Improperly adjusted crown, fogged glass, deep scratches, or significant deviations in time are all alarm signals. Neglecting them can lead to expensive repairs or permanent damage to the movement.
When should I have my automatic watch serviced?
An automatic watch is precise mechanism, which should undergo a professional inspection every few years. Signs that it's time for service include, first and foremost, loss of gait accuracy (the watch runs significantly slower or faster), a significant reduction in the power reserve, and any water resistance issues (e.g., fogged glass). Service is recommended every 3–5 years, even if everything appears to be working fine.
A professional service involves disassembling the movement, removing old lubricants, thoroughly cleaning each cog, applying fresh oil, and replacing worn parts (e.g., worn springs and seals). The case seals are also inspected and reconditioned to restore the original water resistance. Regular inspections are a preventative measure – they allow you to detect wear before it breaks down and significantly extend the life of your watch. This will ensure your automatic watch will last for many years, maintaining its accuracy and reliability.
Summary
For an automatic watch to last for years, the most important rules are: wear it regularly, protect it from impacts and environmental extremes, clean it gently, and service it periodically. The key is to avoid moisture beyond the declared water resistance, keep it away from magnets, and avoid overwinding the movement when hand-winding. By following these tips, your automatic watch will be reliable and maintain its elegant appearance for many years. When choosing watches and accessories from our selection, Celesti Watches, you are investing in premium equipment that – with proper care – will reward you with precision and durability.
Take care of your automatic watch today and enjoy it for many years to come!
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Frequently asked questions
How long does the machine last without being worn?
Can an automatic watch be wet?
How often should you service an automatic watch?
Is a winder necessary?
How to protect your watch from a magnet?
Is the machine suitable for everyday wear?
