Mechanical Watch Maintenance Guide: Care & Usage Tips

(Click here to see a PDF user manual)

1. Introduction to Your Mechanical Watch

Congratulations on owning a mechanical watch – a timeless blend of engineering, craftsmanship, and style. Unlike quartz watches, mechanical timepieces are powered by a spring-driven mechanism and require manual or automatic winding to function. With proper use and care, your watch can last a lifetime – and even be passed down as an heirloom.

2. How to Use Your Mechanical Watch

⏱️ Manual Mechanical Watches

Winding Your Watch:

• Wind your watch daily, preferably at the same time each day.
• Unscrew the crown if it’s a screw-down type.
• Turn the crown clockwise 20–30 full turns until you feel slight resistance.
• Do not over-wind – stop once resistance increases.

Setting the Time:

• Pull the crown out to the second position (you'll hear a click).
• Turn the crown to set the time. Turn clockwise to avoid damaging the mechanism.
• Push the crown back in once time is set.
• If screw-down crown: Press in and screw back down.

Note: Most manual watches do not feature a date function. If yours does, avoid setting the date between 9 PM and 3 AM, when the gears are in motion.

🔁 Automatic Mechanical Watches

Winding Your Watch:

• Worn regularly? Your motion will naturally wind it.
• Inactive for more than a day? Manually wind it 20–40 turns to restart.

Power Reserve:

• Most automatic watches have a power reserve of 38–48 hours.
• Store in a watch winder if not worn daily.

Setting the Time/Date:

• Same procedure as manual watches.
• For watches with a date feature, never adjust the date during 9 PM–3 AM.

3. Daily Care Tips

• Avoid magnets: Magnetic fields can affect accuracy. Keep away from phones, speakers, and laptops.
• Keep it dry: Unless labeled water-resistant, avoid exposure to water. Even water-resistant watches should not be used in hot showers or saunas.
• Remove before sports: Sudden shocks can damage the movement.
• Store safely: Place your watch in a soft pouch or case when not in use to avoid scratches.

4. Long-Term Maintenance

🧼 Cleaning Your Watch

• Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe the case and crystal regularly.
• For deeper cleaning (especially metal straps), use a lightly damp cloth or soft brush. Never soak the watch unless it’s water-resistant.

⚙️ Servicing

• Mechanical watches should be professionally serviced every 3–5 years.
• Servicing includes lubrication, movement calibration, gasket replacement, and cleaning.
• Delaying service can lead to increased wear and costly repairs.

🔧 Signs Your Watch Needs Servicing

• Losing or gaining more than 30 seconds per day
• Moisture under the glass
• Unusual ticking sounds
• Power reserve depletes quickly

5. Storage Tips

• Use a watch box or pouch: This prevents scratches and dust buildup.
• For automatics: Consider a watch winder to keep it running if not worn daily.
• Avoid extremes: Don’t store your watch in areas with high humidity or temperature changes (e.g., bathrooms, cars).

6. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I wind my automatic watch daily?
A: Yes, it’s safe and sometimes even recommended, especially if it hasn't been worn for a day or two.

Q: My watch is running fast/slow. What should I do?
A: Minor fluctuations (±10 seconds/day) are normal. Greater discrepancies may require servicing.

Q: Is my watch waterproof?
A: Most watches are water-resistant, not waterproof. Always check the rating (e.g., 3ATM, 5ATM). Avoid exposure unless it’s clearly designed for swimming/diving.