Watch Care Guide

Daily Quick Clean

After wearing your watch, give it a quick wipe with a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth. This removes sweat, oils, and dust before they can build up. Pay special attention to the case back and between bracelet links where grime accumulates.

A quality Cape Cod polishing cloth works wonders for removing fingerprints and light tarnish from metal bracelets and cases.

Deep Cleaning (Weekly/Monthly)

1. Remove the strap or bracelet if possible for thorough cleaning
2. For metal bracelets: Soak in warm water with mild soap for 10-15 minutes
3. Use a soft brush (like a soft toothbrush) to clean between links
4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water
5. Dry completely with a microfiber cloth before reassembly

Cleaning the Watch Case and Crystal

Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to wipe the case and crystal. For stubborn spots, a dedicated watch cleaning solution works best. The ULTRAVUE Watch Cleaning Kit includes everything you need: cleaning gel, microfiber cloths, and soft brushes designed specifically for watches.

Crystal Types and Care

For acrylic crystals with light scratches, Polywatch scratch remover can restore clarity in minutes. It's a must-have for vintage watch owners.

Measuring Your Strap

Before buying a new strap, you need to know three measurements:

• Lug width: The distance between the lugs where the spring bar sits (most common: 18mm, 20mm, 22mm)
• Strap length: Measure your wrist and add 20-30mm for the buckle overlap
• Thickness: Should fit comfortably between the lugs and case back

Spring Bar Tool Technique

You'll need a spring bar tool to safely remove and install straps without scratching your watch. The Selizo Spring Bar Tool Kit comes with multiple tips and a link remover for bracelets.

Step-by-Step Strap Removal

1. Place your watch face-down on a soft surface (microfiber cloth works well)
2. Insert the forked end of the spring bar tool between the strap and lug
3. Push the spring bar tip inward to compress it
4. While compressed, angle the strap away from the lug
5. Repeat on the other side

Installing a New Strap

1. Insert the spring bar into the strap end
2. Hook one end of the spring bar into the lug hole
3. Use the tool to compress and guide the other end into place
4. Gently tug the strap to confirm it's secure

Common Lug Widths by Watch Type

Understanding the Numbers

Water resistance ratings can be confusing. A watch rated "30m water resistant" doesn't mean you can dive 30 meters with it. These ratings are based on static pressure tests, not real-world conditions. Here's what each rating actually means:

Maintaining Water Resistance

Water resistance isn't permanent. Gaskets degrade over time, and impacts can compromise seals. Follow these guidelines:

• Have gaskets checked annually by a watchmaker, especially for dive watches
• Never operate the crown or pushers while the watch is wet or submerged
• Rinse with fresh water after saltwater or chlorine exposure
• Avoid extreme temperature changes (like jumping into cold water on a hot day)
• Replace the crown seal if you notice moisture inside the crystal

Screw-Down Crown Basics

Many water-resistant watches (100m+) feature a screw-down crown. This creates a watertight seal when properly secured. To use:

1. To open: Turn counter-clockwise until the crown pops out
2. Set time/date: Pull to the appropriate position and adjust
3. To seal: Push in gently and turn clockwise until snug (don't over-tighten)

When to Replace Your Battery

Quartz watch batteries typically last 2-5 years depending on the movement and features. Signs your battery needs replacement:

• Second hand jumping in 2-4 second intervals (End-of-Life indicator on many watches)
• Watch has stopped completely
• Backlight or other features stopped working
• Chronograph functions are sluggish

Common Watch Battery Sizes

DIY Battery Replacement

Many watches can be serviced at home with the right tools. You'll need a case back opener. For snap-back cases, a friction ball opener works well. For screw-back cases, a wrench-style case opener is essential.

Basic Steps

1. Identify your case back type (snap-back, screw-back, or 4-screw)
2. Open carefully using the appropriate tool
3. Note the battery orientation before removing
4. Use plastic tweezers to remove and install the battery (avoid touching with fingers)
5. Check the gasket condition and replace if worn
6. Close the case back securely

Short-Term Storage

For watches you wear regularly, a simple watch box or tray keeps them organized and protected. Store watches:

• Away from direct sunlight (fades straps and can affect lubricants)
• At room temperature (avoid attics, basements, bathrooms)
• Away from magnets (speakers, phone cases, magnetic clasps)
• Individually cushioned to prevent scratches

Storing Automatic Watches

Automatic (self-winding) watches have a power reserve of 38-72 hours typically. If you don't wear them regularly, you have two options:

Option 1: Let Them Stop

It's perfectly fine to let an automatic watch stop. Modern lubricants don't "dry out" from sitting. Simply wind and set it when you're ready to wear it again.

Option 2: Use a Watch Winder

For convenience or for perpetual calendar complications, a watch winder keeps your watch running. The TRIPLE TREE Double Watch Winder offers quiet Japanese motors and multiple rotation settings to match your watch's needs.

Long-Term Storage

Storing a watch for months or years? Take these precautions:

1. Clean thoroughly before storage to prevent corrosion
2. Remove the battery from quartz watches to prevent leakage
3. Leave the crown pulled out on quartz watches (stops the movement)
4. Store in a cool, dry place with stable temperature
5. Consider silica gel packets in the storage container
6. Check annually for any signs of moisture or degradation

Avoiding Magnetization

Magnetic fields can affect the accuracy of mechanical watches by magnetizing the hairspring. Common sources:

• Smartphone speakers and wireless chargers
• Laptop speakers and magnetic closures
• Magnetic money clips and bag clasps
• MRI machines and industrial equipment

If your mechanical watch starts running significantly fast (minutes per day), it may be magnetized. A watchmaker can easily demagnetize it, or you can use a demagnetizer tool at home.

Maintenance Schedule