8 Common Watch Maintenance Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

A precision timepiece is not merely an accessory but a mechanical work of art. To maintain its accuracy and luster, regular maintenance is essential. Even top-tier replica watches feature intricate movements that require professional care.

Many people know how to choose and buy watches, yet overlook “how to properly maintain them.” After spending a fortune, they gradually damage their timepieces through daily use.

1. Exposing the watch to strong magnetic fields Mobile phones and laptops are not the main sources of magnetism. The real dangers are speakers, TV sets, magnetic clasps, and magnetic phone cases. Magnetization can cause serious timing deviation or even stop the movement.

   Recommendation: Keep watches away from strong magnetic fields. If accuracy changes, perform demagnetization.

2. Adjusting the date at the wrong time Most date mechanisms are in the date-changing process between 10 PM and 1 AM. Adjusting the date during this period can damage the date wheel and gears.

   Recommendation: Adjust the date before 10 PM or after 1 AM. If unsure AM/PM, advance the hands until the date jumps to confirm, then adjust.

3. Over-winding the movement More winding does not mean better performance. The mainspring is most stable at around 70%–80% tension.

   Recommendation: Automatic watches only need regular wearing; avoid frequent manual winding. For manual watches, stop winding as soon as resistance is felt.

4. Incorrect use of chronograph functions The chronograph is a complex mechanism. Improper sequence—such as resetting without stopping, or operating in reverse order—can damage the movement.

   Recommendation: Always follow the correct sequence: Start → Stop → Reset.

5. Misunderstanding water resistance ratings “100 meters water resistance” does not mean swimming or diving.

   Rating	Typical Use
   30M	Hand washing
   50M	Daily splashes
   100M	Light water exposure
   200M	Short immersion

   Important: No watch should be exposed to hot water, saunas, or steam. Steam penetrates seals faster than water. Always ensure the crown is fully tightened.

6. Excessive polishing of the case Polishing removes metal. Repeated polishing will thin the case and may damage coatings such as hardened surface treatments or PVD plating.

   Recommendation: Limit polishing and use professionals only when necessary.

7. Leaving the watch unused for long periods Long-term inactivity can cause lubricants to dry out or oxidize, leading to poor accuracy or movement failure.

   Recommendation: Wear or manually wind the watch 1–2 times a month. A watch winder is recommended for automatic watches in a collection.

8. Ignoring regular servicing Like a car, a watch requires routine maintenance.
   Light cleaning: Every 3–6 months (case and bracelet)

   Full movement service: Every 3–5 years (disassembly, cleaning, lubrication, and water-resistance test)

   Benefit: Regular service significantly extends movement lifespan and ensures long-term performance.

Final Reminder

Even top-tier replica watches feature intricate mechanisms comparable to authentic models. With proper care, they can maintain long-term precision and a lustrous finish like new.

Formula: Proper Wear + Daily Maintenance + Regular Servicing = Keep your watch looking brand new after 5 years and running reliably for 10!

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