Posted on July 3rd, 2023

A luxury watch is much more than just a device that tells time. It's a statement of personal style, a prestigious accessory, and often a significant investment. Thus, as proud owners of luxury watches, it becomes imperative to understand and implement measures to maintain and care for these precious timepieces. Here at Prestigio Watch in Lenexa, Kansas, we not only deal with the finest luxury watches, but we also believe in educating our valued customers on how to prolong the life and beauty of their watches. In this blog post, we present to you the ultimate guide to luxury watch maintenance and care.

1. Regular Cleaning

Every luxury watch deserves regular cleaning to maintain its appearance and performance. For routine cleaning, you can use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently remove any dust or fingerprints from the surface. This practice should ideally be done daily after you take off the watch.

For a more thorough cleaning, you may occasionally use warm soapy water (mild soap) and a soft brush to clean the case and the bracelet. However, ensure that the crown is fully pushed in or screwed down to prevent water from entering the watch. Once cleaned, wipe it dry immediately. Remember, this method should be avoided for leather-strapped watches as water can damage the leather.

2. Servicing Intervals

Just like a luxury car, your luxury watch also needs regular servicing to ensure its mechanism runs flawlessly. Over time, even the most expensive watch can accumulate dust and the lubricants may harden, affecting the movement's efficiency.

Depending upon the brand and model, a complete service every 4 to 5 years is usually recommended. However, this period may vary, and it's best to follow the guidance given by the watch manufacturer. During the servicing, any worn-out parts are replaced, the movement is cleaned and lubricated, and the accuracy is tested and adjusted.

3. Avoiding Water Damage

Not all luxury watches are designed to resist water, and even those rated for water resistance can still be susceptible to damage if not handled correctly. Always ensure that the crown is properly pushed in or screwed down before your watch comes in contact with water. Do not operate the buttons or the crown while the watch is submerged.

Even for watches with high water-resistance ratings, exposure to hot water, steam, or chemicals (like in a hot tub or shower) can compromise the seals and gaskets. If your watch gets water inside, seek professional help immediately to prevent any long-term damage.

4. Protection from Shocks

Luxury watches are crafted with precision and delicate craftsmanship, and they can be susceptible to damage from severe shocks or vibrations. Activities such as golf, tennis, or mountain biking can generate impacts that can damage the movement. Avoid wearing your luxury watch during such activities.

5. Safe Storage

When not wearing your luxury watch, store it in a cool, dry place. Each watch should be stored separately to prevent them from scratching against each other. If you have multiple watches, consider investing in a watch box for storage.

Automatic watches, which are powered by the movement of your wrist, can stop if not worn regularly. In this case, a watch winder can be beneficial as it keeps the watch running and ensures the oil inside the watch is evenly distributed.

6. Avoiding Magnetic Fields

Magnetic fields can affect the accuracy of your mechanical watch. Keep your luxury watch away from speakers, refrigerators, smartphones, or any other magnetic sources. If your watch becomes magnetized (characterized by fast running), a watchmaker can quickly demagnetize it.

7. Using the Functions Correctly

Each function of your luxury watch, such as setting the time, adjusting the date, or using a chronograph, has a correct method of operation. Misusing these functions, especially when the watch is in certain states (for instance, changing the date near midnight when the watch is engaged in the date-switching process), can damage the movement. Always refer to the manual to understand the correct operation procedures.

8. Protecting the Crystal

The crystal, or the clear cover over the dial, can be made of different materials like acrylic, mineral glass, or sapphire. Sapphire crystals are highly scratch-resistant but can be chipped or cracked upon severe impact. To prevent damage to the crystal, be cautious when wearing your watch around hard surfaces or during physical tasks.

9. Caring for the Strap or Bracelet

The strap or bracelet of your watch also needs regular care. Leather straps are susceptible to damage from water, sweat, and chemicals. Avoid exposing your leather strap to such conditions, and consider using a conditioner to maintain its suppleness.

Metal bracelets can be cleaned using the method mentioned earlier. For removing dirt or grime from the links, you can use a soft brush. Ensure the bracelet is dried thoroughly afterward.

10. Insurance

Considering the value of luxury watches, it's wise to have your watch insured. While insurance cannot prevent damage, it provides financial protection in case of theft, loss, or accidental damage. Keep the purchase documents, including the receipt and the certificate of authenticity, safe, as they'll be required for insurance purposes.

Wrapping Up

Luxury watches are a testament to human ingenuity, precision, and craftsmanship. When cared for correctly, these timepieces can not only provide accurate timekeeping but also serve as a piece of wearable art, a cherished heirloom, or an astute investment.

At Prestigio Watch, we believe that owning a luxury watch brings certain responsibilities, one of which is to ensure proper care and maintenance. Follow this comprehensive guide to keep your watch in pristine condition, maintaining its beauty, performance, and value.

If you have any further queries about luxury watch care or need help with your watch maintenance, feel free to get in touch with us at turvillemark@gmail.com. We're more than happy to help you understand your watch better and ensure it continues to tick flawlessly, today, tomorrow, and for generations to come. After all, every tick of your luxury watch echoes a moment of your precious time and, at Prestigio Watch, we understand the priceless value of these moments.

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