Dive Watch Care and Maintenance Tips for Maximum Lifespan
Picture this: you’ve finally gotten your hands on one of your favorite dive watches, doesn’t matter if it’s a branded Seiko dive watch or a microbrand dive watch, and you can’t wait to hit the water with your shiny new timepiece.
But the question lingers in your mind, “How long will my precious dive watch actually last?”
Well, my friend, I’ve got some good news and better news.
The good news is that a high-quality dive watch generally has a lifespan of about 5-10 years.
And, the better news is that with proper care and maintenance, you can keep it ticking for even longer.
So, buckle up and dive into these practical tips to maximize the lifespan of your beloved underwater companion.
1. Love Thy Gaskets: Keep Them Clean and Lubricated
The gaskets, or O-rings, are the unsung heroes of dive watches. They’re responsible for keeping your watch water-resistant, so you’ll want to treat them like royalty.
Cleaning: Regularly clean your watch with a soft cloth and fresh water to remove dirt, salt, and other nasty stuff that can accumulate around the gasket. Pro tip: Use a toothpick wrapped in tissue paper to gently clean the edges.
Lubrication: Lubricate the gaskets every 1-2 years to keep them supple and avoid damage. Silicone grease is your go-to for this job. A tiny dab will do.
Replacement: Gaskets don’t last forever, so plan on replacing them every 2-3 years, or when you notice signs of wear like cracks or flattening.
2. Give Your Watch a Spa Day: Regular Cleaning
After a day in the ocean, your watch deserves some TLC. Rinse it thoroughly in fresh, lukewarm water to wash away salt, sand, and other debris. Don’t forget to clean the strap and buckle too.
3. Play It Safe: Avoid Extreme Temperatures and Chemicals
Extreme heat or cold can wreak havoc on your watch’s inner workings, so avoid exposing it to saunas, hot tubs, or freezing conditions. Also, steer clear of chemicals like perfume, bug spray, or cleaning agents, as they can damage the watch’s seals and finishes.
4. Timing Is Everything: Wind and Set Your Watch Correctly
Properly winding and setting your watch is crucial to keeping it ticking accurately.
Winding: For a mechanical watch, wind it every day, preferably in the morning. For an automatic watch, give it a full wind once a week if you wear it daily.
Setting: Avoid setting the date or time between 9 PM and 3 AM, as this can damage the gears. And always make sure the crown is fully pushed in and screwed down to prevent water and dust from sneaking in.
5. Keep It Tight: Check Bracelet and Strap Security
Your watch is only as secure as its strap, so inspect it regularly for wear and tear. Look out for loose pins, worn-out holes, or fraying fabric. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to replace the strap.
6. Get a Check-Up: Professional Servicing
Like your car or your teeth, your dive watch needs regular professional servicing to keep it running smoothly. Schedule a service every 3-5 years to have the movement, gaskets, and water-resistance checked by an expert.
7. Store It with Care: Keep Your Watch Safe and Sound
When you’re not wearing your watch, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, moisture, or magnetic fields. A watch box or padded case is your best bet for keeping your timepiece safe and sound.
8. Know Your Limits: Don’t Push Your Watch Beyond Its Depth Rating
Dive watches have specific depth ratings, usually indicated in meters or feet on the dial or case back. It’s essential to know your watch’s limit and never exceed it, as pushing past its depth rating can damage the watch’s water resistance. Remember, it’s better to play it safe and stay within the recommended range.
9. Respect the Crown: Handle with Care
The crown, the tiny knob on the side of your watch, is the gateway to your watch’s delicate inner workings. Treat it with the care it deserves by never pulling or turning it while the watch is submerged. And always ensure it’s fully pushed in and screwed down before diving in.
10. Keep It Real: Stick to Authorized Dealers and Service Centers
When buying a new dive watch or getting yours serviced, make sure to go through authorized dealers and service centers. This guarantees that you’ll receive genuine parts and expert service, which is vital for maintaining your watch’s performance and longevity.
Conclusion:
So, there you have it!
These simple yet effective dive watch care and maintenance tips will help you maximize your timepiece’s lifespan and make it your trusty underwater companion for years to come.
With proper care and attention, you’ll be able to enjoy countless underwater adventures together.
Now that you’re equipped with these handy tips, why not explore our other dive watch blogs to discover new options and make a purchase that’s perfect for you? From dive computers to small wrists dive watches ( pretty hard to find) everything for every dive watch lover we have covered in our blogs.
Happy Diving! 🤿