10 Essential Watch Care Tips to Keep Your Timepiece Ticking: A CalderoneWatchCo Guide[2025]

Are you looking to extend the life of your precious timepiece? Proper watch maintenance isn't just about preserving value—it's about ensuring your favorite accessory continues to perform flawlessly for years to come. At CalderoneWatchCo, we understand that a well-maintained watch does more than tell time; it tells your story. That's why we've compiled these 10 essential watch care tips that every watch owner should know in 2025, from basic cleaning techniques to professional servicing recommendations.

1. Establish a Regular Cleaning Routine

Your watch comes into contact with dust, dirt, sweat, and oils every day. These substances can gradually deteriorate your timepiece if left unattended.

Clean your watch at least once a month using appropriate methods for your specific type. For water-resistant watches, use a soft cloth slightly dampened with warm water and mild soap. Gently wipe the case, crystal, and bracelet to remove accumulated grime and oils.

Never use harsh chemicals or abrasives on your watch, as these can damage the finish or scratch the crystal. For leather straps, use a dry cloth to remove surface dirt and occasionally treat with a leather conditioner specifically designed for watch straps.

At CalderoneWatchCo, we recommend using microfiber cloths for daily wiping to prevent scratch marks while effectively removing oils and fingerprints from your watch surface.

2. Schedule Professional Servicing

Even with regular cleaning, your watch requires professional attention to maintain optimal performance.

Most mechanical watches should be serviced every 3-5 years, depending on the manufacturer's recommendations. During servicing, the movement is disassembled, cleaned, oiled, and reassembled by skilled technicians who can identify and address potential issues before they cause damage.

For quartz watches, servicing intervals may be longer, but professional inspection is still essential when replacing batteries to ensure water resistance seals are properly maintained. 

3. Master Proper Storage Techniques

How you store your watch when not in use significantly impacts its longevity and performance.

Store your timepiece in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade dials and damage leather straps. Use a dedicated watch box with individual compartments to prevent scratches from contact with other watches or jewelry.

For longer storage periods, consider watch winders for automatic watches to keep the movement active and lubricated. Manual wind watches should be wound every few weeks even when not worn to maintain lubrication throughout the movement.

4. Understand Water Resistance Limitations

Water damage is one of the leading causes of watch repairs, often resulting from misunderstanding water resistance ratings.

Never assume your watch is completely waterproof unless specifically rated for diving. A watch marked as 30m water-resistant can handle splashes but shouldn't be submerged. Even 100m rated watches should not be worn for high-impact water sports without screw-down crowns.

Always ensure the crown is fully pushed in or screwed down before any contact with water. Have water resistance tested annually, as seals deteriorate over time. After swimming in saltwater, rinse your watch with fresh water to prevent corrosion.

5. Protect Against Magnetization

Modern life surrounds us with magnetic fields that can affect your watch's accuracy and performance.

Common sources of magnetism include smartphones, tablets, speakers, magnetic clasps on bags, and some medical equipment. A magnetized mechanical watch typically runs fast, sometimes gaining several minutes per day.

If you suspect your watch has become magnetized, keep it away from magnetic sources and consult a professional. 

6. Practice Proper Battery Maintenance

For quartz watches, proper battery management extends both battery life and protects your timepiece.

Replace batteries before they leak, typically every 1-2 years depending on usage. Never leave dead batteries inside your watch, as they can leak corrosive materials that damage the movement.

Always have batteries replaced by qualified technicians who can ensure proper reinstallation of water resistance seals.

7. Give Special Attention to Watch Straps

Your watch strap requires specific care depending on its material to maintain appearance and comfort.

Leather straps need protection from moisture and should be wiped with a dry cloth after wearing. Apply leather conditioner every few months to prevent cracking and maintain suppleness. Metal bracelets benefit from occasional cleaning with a soft brush and mild soap solution.

Rubber and silicone straps should be rinsed with fresh water after exposure to saltwater or chlorine. 

8. Avoid Extreme Temperature Environments

Extreme temperatures can compromise your watch's components and overall performance.

Avoid leaving your watch in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can damage lubricants and cause expansion of parts. Similarly, extreme cold can affect movement accuracy and potentially damage gaskets.

Take off your watch before entering saunas, hot tubs, or similar environments where rapid temperature changes occur. At CalderoneWatchCo, we recommend storing watches at room temperature for optimal performance.

9. Learn Proper Setting Techniques

Improper adjustment of your watch's functions can lead to premature wear or damage.

Never change the date when the watch hands are between 9 PM and 3 AM, as this is when the date mechanism is engaged and can be damaged. For watches with multiple complications, always follow the manufacturer's instructions for adjustments.

When setting the time, move hands forward rather than backward, especially when passing midnight. 

10. Recognize Warning Signs for Immediate Attention

Being attentive to changes in your watch's performance can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.

Watch for signs like unexpected time loss or gain, unusual noises, moisture under the crystal, or stiffness when adjusting functions. If you notice any of these warning signs, contact a professional immediately.