How to take care of mechanical watches so they last for decades?

Mechanical watches are not just timekeepers. They are small technical marvels that, with proper care, can function for decades – and are often passed down from generation to generation. However, many people make mistakes that cause their watches to suffer or break prematurely. In this article, I’ll explain in simple but thorough terms how to properly take care of mechanical watches so they bring you joy for as long as possible.

Why do mechanical watches need care?

Mechanical watches consist of dozens to hundreds of tiny components – gears, springs, pivots, and bearings. These parts constantly move and rub against each other. Without regular maintenance:

• parts wear out

• oil dries up and the watch stops

• accuracy starts to fluctuate

Mechanical watches are not electronics you just turn on and forget. They need care like a car.

Tip No. 1 – Regular servicing
How often should you service them?

Most manufacturers recommend servicing mechanical watches every 4–6 years:

• disassemble

• clean

• re-lubricate

• adjust

Without servicing, the oil eventually turns into a sticky paste that can damage components. Even if the watch runs, it doesn’t mean everything inside is fine.

How much does servicing cost?

• regular watches → $80 – $200

• luxury brands → easily $400 – $1,200

Tip No. 2 – Protect your watch from magnetism

Magnetism is the enemy of mechanical watches. If the hairspring becomes magnetized, the watch may start running extremely fast or stop completely.

What can magnetize a watch?

• speakers

• mobile phones

• handbags with magnetic closures

• induction cooktops

How to protect it?

• don’t place the watch directly on magnetic sources

• if your watch is running fast, have it demagnetized by a watchmaker (costs a few hundred → about $8 – $20)

Tip No. 3 – Avoid shocks

Mechanical watches are durable but don’t tolerate strong impacts well. If you:

• play tennis

• chop wood with an axe

• bang your watch against the table

→ better take it off your wrist.

Shocks can damage delicate components, especially the hairspring or bearings.

Tip No. 4 – Be careful with water

Even if the watch is marked Water Resistant, it doesn’t mean you can take it into the pool or shower. If a mechanical watch has water resistance of 30M or 50M, it’s better not to bathe with it.

What to do?

• always check the water resistance rating of the watch

• rinse the watch with fresh water after swimming in salt water

• for swimming or diving, get a watch with at least 100M water resistance

Tip No. 5 – Don’t wind your watch forcefully

If you have a manually wound watch, don’t keep turning the crown as hard as you can. As soon as you feel resistance, stop winding. Otherwise, you could break the mainspring or damage the winding mechanism.

Tip No. 6 – Store your watch properly

If you don’t wear your watch for a longer period, store it:

• in a watch box

• in a dry place

• away from direct sunlight and moisture

Watch winders

If you have an automatic watch and don’t want it to stop, you can use a watch winder. It simulates wrist movement and keeps the watch running. But it’s not necessary – the watch can remain stopped safely.

Tip No. 7 – Cleanliness is essential

Mechanical watches are not waterproof vacuum cleaners. Don’t clean them under running water!

• wipe the case with a soft cloth

• use a damp cloth only on the metal bracelet (not on the leather strap)

• if the watch needs thorough cleaning, leave it to a watchmaker

Tip No. 8 – Protect your watch from extreme temperatures

Both heat and frost negatively affect watches:

• high temperatures → oil becomes too thin

• low temperatures → oil thickens, and the watch stops

Don’t wear the watch in a sauna, freezer, or under direct sunlight for long periods.

Mechanical watches – an investment for a lifetime

Well-serviced mechanical watches can last decades or even centuries. It’s not uncommon for watches to be inherited from a grandfather, still running perfectly and holding significant emotional and financial value.

For example:

• Omega Speedmaster → can run for 50 years

• Rolex Submariner → value increases, and the movement lasts for decades

• Seiko 5 → more affordable watches, but with servicing can last 30–40 years

Common myths about watch maintenance

“Mechanical watches don’t need servicing as long as they run.” → Wrong. Without servicing, parts wear out, and repairs are more expensive.

“Waterproof watches survive the shower.” → Not always. Hot water and steam penetrate seals.

“Watches can withstand any impact.” → No. Mechanics are fragile.

“Magnetism destroys the watch.” → No. It can be removed.

“A watch winder is a must.” → It’s not. Let your watch rest if you like.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to wear a mechanical watch every day?
No. If you don’t wear it, it will just stop. Nothing bad will happen to it.

How much does mechanical watch servicing cost?
Usually $80 – $200. For luxury brands, easily over $400.

Can I clean my watch myself?
Externally, yes. Don’t mess with the movement.

How often should I have my watch serviced?
Every 4–6 years, even if it’s running fine.

Do I have to wind my manual watch every day?
Most have a power reserve of about 40 hours, so daily winding is ideal.

Is a watch winder necessary?
No. But it’s practical if you have a watch with a calendar or other complications.