Water can do quite a bit of damage to a watch if it makes its way under the crystal or into the mechanical or quartz movement. So, how do you best protect your timepiece? Read on to learn some helpful tips from your fellow watch gurus.
Buy a Water-Resistant Watch Band
There are a few ways to protect your watch from harsh elements like rain. You can keep it in a protective case when you’re not wearing it, or you can give it a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth if it gets wet.
Another option is to purchase a water-resistant watch band, which will help keep your watch safe from moisture and humidity. Just be sure to read the product specifications before you buy, as not all bands are created equal.
Finally, if you know you’re going to be in an environment where your watch is likely to get wet (like on a boat or by the pool), consider purchasing a waterproof watch instead.
3 Ways to Keep Your Watch Protected from the Elements
- Seal up the case with a silicone wrist strap or rice paper
- Hang the watch on its strap for protection during transport in a pocket or purse
- Use a watch display case
Seals and protectors keep your watch safe and ready to wear. Silicone wrist straps are sold just about everywhere now. They slip over the watch face and strap, creating a seal against rain, extreme temperatures, sand, dust, etc. When I’m at the beach or doing yard work I slap one of these on my watches and don’t worry about them getting damaged because the silicone is waterproof and dustproof.
Rice paper is a sheet of rice-like material that can be cut to fit the wrist. It’s waterproof and also dustproof. You can get it in different colors, you can use it to decorate your wrist, etc. It’s all pretty cool stuff and I’ve used it in lots of different ways over the years.
The problem with bringing your watch into the house and not having to worry about it getting crushed or ruined is a display case. I like the big ones in wood the best because they are heavy enough to keep the watch securely in place without additional support straps.
Try Waterproofing Your Watch
If you find yourself often wearing your watch in the rain (or if you forget to take it off before you shower), consider having it waterproofed. You can have this procedure done by professionals, or you can even do it yourself with the help of a watch gasket, silicone oil, cotton swabs, and ultraviolet epoxy. After waterproofing, make sure to test your watch to ensure that no water gets inside your timepiece.
Check Seals and Gaskets Every Time You Change the Battery
Watches are delicate. It’s best to keep your watch out of extreme temperatures, as both high heat and extreme cold can damage internal lubricants in the watch and cause it to not work properly. Water is also detrimental to your watch, so keeping it out of humid conditions is also a safe practice.
If you do find yourself caught in the rain, most watches do have some water resistance, as long as they’re not submerged completely in water for an extended period. Once you’re out of the rain, make sure your watch is completely dried off. You should also have your watch checked each time you change the battery to make sure that the water-resistant seal is still functioning properly.
Water-Resistant Isn’t Waterproof
Many analog watches are made to be water-resistant, which means that sweat and rain won’t affect them. They shouldn’t be submerged in water unless they specifically say waterproof. Smartwatches are also water-resistant and the Apple Watch has a water lock feature that keeps your watch dry when submerged in water. There are ways to waterproof your analog watch as well, but it might be best to let a professional do it as watch gears are very delicate.
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