The Journal

Care · 4 min read

How to Care for an Automatic Watch

A mechanical watch can last generations with a little care. Here's how to keep yours running true.

How to Care for an Automatic Watch

A watch is a tiny machine

Inside your automatic is a mainspring, a rotor, and dozens of jewelled parts moving thousands of times an hour. A little care keeps them happy for decades.

Daily wear

  • Keep it moving. An automatic needs wrist time to stay wound. If you rotate watches, consider a winder.
  • Avoid magnetism. Keep it away from speakers, laptop palms, and phone chargers — magnets can speed it up.
  • Set the date right. Don't change the date between 9pm and 3am, when the mechanism is mid-cycle.

Cleaning

Wipe the case and crystal with a soft, dry cloth. For a steel bracelet, warm water and a soft toothbrush remove grime from the links. Never use solvents.

Water resistance

Water-resistance ratings degrade over time as gaskets age. Have the seals pressure-tested every couple of years if you swim with it. 30m means splash-proof, not swimming.

Servicing

A mechanical movement likes a service every 4–5 years — clean, oil, and regulate. We handle servicing in-house; message us on WhatsApp at +44 7466 919967 to book yours.

Storage

Store it in a dry place, away from sunlight. A watch box or pouch prevents scratches. If you won't wear it for weeks, wind it occasionally to keep the lubricants distributed.

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