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Watch Care Guide
A quality watch is designed to accompany you through everyday life and special occasions. With proper care and maintenance, your watch can continue looking and performing its best for many years.
Whether you own a quartz watch or an automatic watch, following a few simple care practices can help protect your timepiece from unnecessary wear and maintain its appearance over time.
Quick Answer
To keep your watch in good condition, clean it regularly, avoid unnecessary exposure to water and chemicals, store it properly when not in use and follow recommended servicing guidelines.
Why Watch Care Matters
A watch contains precision components that work together to keep accurate time. Daily exposure to perspiration, dust, moisture and impacts can affect both the appearance and performance of your watch.
Regular care helps maintain comfort, appearance and long-term reliability.
How to Clean Your Watch
For Stainless Steel Watches
Stainless steel bracelets and cases can be cleaned using a soft cloth to remove fingerprints, dust and everyday dirt.
- Use a clean microfiber cloth
- Wipe the case and bracelet regularly
- Remove dirt from bracelet links using a soft brush if necessary
- Ensure the crown is fully pushed in before cleaning around it
For Leather Strap Watches
Leather straps require more care than stainless steel bracelets.
- Wipe with a soft dry cloth
- Avoid soaking the strap
- Keep away from excessive moisture
- Allow the strap to dry naturally if exposed to perspiration
Protect Your Watch from Water
Even water resistant watches should be treated with care.
- Always check your watch's water resistance rating
- Ensure the crown is fully secured before water exposure
- Avoid pressing buttons underwater unless specified by the manufacturer
- Rinse with fresh water after exposure to salt water
Learn more in our Water Resistance Guide.
Avoid Chemicals and Cosmetics
Perfume, hairspray, lotion, cleaning agents and other chemicals may affect your watch's finish, seals and strap materials.
Apply cosmetics and fragrances before putting on your watch whenever possible.
How to Store Your Watch
When not wearing your watch, store it in a clean and dry environment.
Good storage habits help protect the watch from dust, scratches and unnecessary exposure to humidity.
- Store in the original watch box or watch case
- Avoid direct sunlight for prolonged periods
- Keep away from extreme temperatures
- Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the watch
Protect Your Watch from Impacts
Although watches are designed for everyday use, strong impacts may affect both the exterior and internal components.
- Avoid dropping the watch
- Remove the watch during high-impact activities when appropriate
- Be mindful when placing the watch on hard surfaces
Automatic Watch Care
Automatic watches require slightly different care compared to quartz watches.
Because they are powered by wrist movement, automatic watches perform best when worn regularly.
- Wear the watch regularly
- Wind the watch according to the manufacturer's instructions if required
- Store carefully when not worn
- Consider periodic servicing to maintain performance
Learn more in our What Is an Automatic Watch? guide.
Quartz Watch Care
Quartz watches are generally low maintenance and easy to own.
- Replace the battery when necessary
- Do not leave a depleted battery inside the watch for extended periods
- Store in a clean, dry environment
- Clean regularly to maintain appearance
For a comparison between movement types, visit our Automatic vs Quartz Watches Guide.
How Often Should a Watch Be Serviced?
Servicing requirements vary depending on the watch type, usage and manufacturer recommendations.
If you notice significant changes in timekeeping performance, condensation under the crystal or difficulty operating the crown, professional inspection is recommended.
For servicing enquiries, please contact our service centre for assistance.
Leather Strap Care Tips
- Avoid prolonged exposure to water
- Rotate between watches if worn daily
- Keep away from excessive humidity
- Clean gently with a soft cloth
Read our Leather vs Stainless Steel Strap Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my watch?
A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth after regular wear can help maintain the appearance of your watch.
Can I shower with my watch?
It is generally recommended to remove your watch before showering due to exposure to hot water, soap and steam.
How should I store my watch?
Store your watch in a clean, dry place such as a watch box or protective case.
How do I care for a leather strap?
Keep the strap dry, avoid excessive moisture and clean gently with a soft cloth.
Do automatic watches require special care?
Automatic watches benefit from regular wear and may require periodic servicing to maintain performance.
Keeping Your Watch Looking Its Best
A few simple care habits can help maintain the appearance and performance of your watch for years to come. Whether you wear your watch daily or reserve it for special occasions, proper care helps protect your investment and ensures continued enjoyment.
Explore our Watch Guide Hub for more advice on choosing, wearing and caring for your watch.