Taking Care Of Your Watch.

NON-WATER RESISTANT WATCH CLEANING avoid exposure to any type of moisture, and simply wipe with a dry soft cloth. WATER RESISTANT WATCH CLEANING use the soft dry cloth to wipe over the case and face of the watch, metal bracelets can be cleaned with mild soapy water and toothbrush. Gently wiping over your watch with a soft watch cloth can remove all dirt, dust particles, and perspiration build up. Plus extend the life and appearance of your watch. Direct contact with things such as hairspray, detergent and perfume may cause damage to your watch. Leather straps should be kept dry and immediately wiped to remove any oily, wet, or high humidity. Exposure to intense light also does your leather strap no favours. Soft supple leather can be maintained by use  of a high quality leather balm. Less is more though when using such product. Extreme temperatures can critically alter your watch’s timekeeping. Avoid exposure to temperatures of above 60c/140f and below 0c/32f. Saunas, snow or sun bathing are not good for watches! Never place your watch on a radiator to dry nor use a hairdryer. Magnets can cause problems with the timekeeping as well, and exposure to any magnets should be avoided, unless specifically shielded like a Rolex Milgauss. Becoming aware of subtle permanent magnets, such as speakers, computers, and yes; even mobile phones, will help prevent you accidentally placing your watch nearby. Over time indirect exposure to such magnets can increasingly effect watch performance. Watches can be demagnetised however, and a complete maintenance of the movement can help too. Impacts or shocks to your watch can result in damage to not only the case and crystal but also to the internal components, hands and movement. Not only voiding your warranty but it can prevent your watch from operating properly.  Internal examination of your watch by an expert can tell if it has been dropped and assess the appropriate action needed to restore the watch’s function. Always remove your watch when adjusting the time or date. When setting the date, experts advise you do not alter the date when the hour hand is between 9 and 3 o'clock {clockwise} in order to help prevent damage to the pinions inside. It is during these times that the pinions position themselves to automatically set the date. Batteries in quartz watches are on average estimated to last 2 - 3 years. Quite a lot will affect the life of a battery, including age and condition of the watch movement, and the number of functions your watch has. When your battery is low or has run out completely it should be removed promptly to avoid any battery leakage.  It is important your battery is replaced or removed by a watch professional, plenty of guarantees are null and void if you fail to do so. If you own a hand-wound watch, always wind your watch fully at approximately the same time every day. Remove your watch to wind it. Do not force or over wind as this damages the crown and internal setting mechanisms. Automatic watches should be worn daily for peak performance. It is advisable for the crown to be given 20 to 30 turns to power an automatic watch. If worn on a wrist it should be wound every two weeks, if not worn it should be wound twice weekly. Watches should be stored on a soft cloth, away from jewellery, and other metal objects. Even better store your watch in a proper watch case, with separate soft compartments for each watch, that keeps dust, and any other contaminants in the air, away. Never pack your watch away wet or damp, allow them to air dry. And remember - no watch is designed to sleep in.