Caring for Your Automatic Watch — 5 Essential Gestures
- Romain Thiriet
- Oct 31
- 2 min read
An automatic watch is far more than an instrument for measuring time — it is a mechanical work of precision, designed to last for decades and, at times, to be passed down from generation to generation.
To preserve its beauty, accuracy, and longevity, a few simple gestures are enough.
Here are the five essential tips for caring for your automatic watch.
Clean Your Watch Regularly
Use a soft, dry cloth
Dust, perspiration, and micro-particles naturally accumulate over time.
Gently wipe the case and crystal with a soft, dry cloth to maintain your watch’s shine.
For a deeper clean — especially between the lugs — use an old toothbrush to remove trapped dust.
A slightly damp microfibre cloth, or a cotton swab lightly moistened, can help remove any remaining residue.
Take Care of the Strap
Leather straps:
Avoid water and humidity. Occasional care with a dedicated leather balm helps nourish and preserve suppleness. Let the leather breathe from time to time — for instance, by switching to an FKM strap for a few days.
Steel or FKM straps:
Simply rinse with clear water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Wear Your Watch Regularly
Keep the movement active
An automatic watch winds itself through the motion of the wrist. If left unworn for too long, the movement may stop. Wear your watch regularly, or use a watch winder, to keep the lubricants distributed evenly and the mechanism in motion.
Avoid Shocks and Magnetic Fields
Even though a high-end watch is built to withstand daily wear, it is best to avoid strong impacts and prolonged exposure to magnetic fields (such as speakers, phones, or magnetic clasps). These can disturb the movement’s precision.
Have Your Watch Serviced by a Professional
Every 4 to 5 years
Like a fine automobile, a mechanical watch requires regular servicing. Every four to five years, entrust it to our watchmaking service : the movement is disassembled, cleaned, lubricated and regulated to restore its original precision. This maintenance ensures longevity and prevents premature wear.
Store Your Watch Properly
Box, humidity, and stable temperature
When not in use, store your watch in its original box or in a suitable case. Keep it away from humidity, direct light, and sudden temperature changes. These simple precautions help preserve the integrity of the materials and the beauty of your timepiece.



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