OWNERSHIP GUIDE
Care for an automatic watch without overthinking it.
Good watch care is mostly consistent handling: secure the crown, avoid force, clean gently and service when behaviour changes. These habits help protect the case finish, seals, bracelet and movement.
Reviewed September 8, 2026
Winding and restarting
If an automatic watch has stopped, give it a controlled manual wind before wearing it. Stop if the crown feels rough, unusually tight or disconnected. Wrist motion maintains the reserve, but vigorous shaking is unnecessary and can do more harm than good.
Setting the time and calendar
Pull and turn the crown only through its intended positions. Avoid quick-setting a date, day or calendar display during the movement’s automatic changeover window, commonly around late evening and early morning. When the correct method is uncertain, move the hands away from the changeover period before adjusting the calendar.
Water and the 60 m test
These product builds are listed as pressure tested to 60 m. This is useful everyday protection, not a recommendation for diving. Keep the crown fully pushed in or screwed down, never operate the crown or chronograph pushers in water, and avoid hot showers, saunas and rapid temperature changes.
Gaskets age. Pressure resistance should be checked periodically and after any service, crystal replacement or case opening.
Cleaning the case and bracelet
Use a clean microfibre cloth after wear. If the crown is secure and the watch has a current pressure test, a lightly damp cloth can lift residue; dry the watch thoroughly. Avoid abrasive compounds, household chemicals and aggressive polishing, which can soften edges and change brushed surfaces.
Magnetism, impacts and storage
Keep mechanical watches away from strong magnets in speakers, clasps, tools and electronics. A sudden change in rate can be a sign of magnetism or impact. Store the watch dry, away from direct sun, with enough space to prevent the bracelet or clasp from rubbing the case.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Questions buyers ask.
Should an automatic watch be kept on a winder?
Not necessarily. A simple watch can be allowed to stop and restarted when needed. A winder may be convenient for complex calendars when correctly configured.
Can I wear a 60 m pressure-tested watch while diving?
No. Treat the 60 m test as everyday water protection rather than dive certification.
How often should water resistance be checked?
Check periodically, before planned water exposure, and whenever the case has been opened or seals have been disturbed.
What should I do if the watch suddenly gains or loses time?
Stop exposing it to shocks or magnets and ask for a movement check rather than trying to regulate it through the caseback yourself.