You found the perfect watch. It looks great. It feels great. Now here's the question most people forget to ask: how do I keep it that way?
A well-cared-for watch doesn't just last longer — it looks better, performs better, and saves you from having to replace it every year or two. The good news? Taking care of your watch takes almost no effort.
Here are 7 simple habits that will keep your timepiece in top shape for years.
Clean It Regularly (It Takes 60 Seconds)
Your watch goes everywhere with you — which means it collects sweat, dirt, lotion, and dust daily. A quick wipe-down once a week prevents buildup that can dull the finish and irritate your skin.
How to clean it:
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth (microfiber works perfectly)
- For deeper cleaning, dampen the cloth with warm water and a tiny drop of mild soap
- Wipe the case, band, and around the buttons/crown
- Dry it completely before wearing
Avoid: Harsh chemicals, alcohol wipes, or abrasive cloths. They can strip coatings and scratch surfaces.
Take It Off Before Bed
We know — some people love wearing their watch to track sleep. And that's fine occasionally. But wearing your watch 24/7 accelerates wear on the band, traps moisture against your skin, and reduces the time your watch has to air out and dry.
If you track sleep, alternate nights. Give your wrist and your watch a break. Both will thank you.
Keep It Away from Magnets
This one surprises people. Magnets can interfere with your watch's sensors and internal components. Common culprits include:
- Laptop speakers
- Magnetic phone mounts
- Magnetic clasps on bags and cases
- Tablet covers with magnetic closures
You don't need to be paranoid — just don't store your watch directly on top of these items overnight.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Your watch is tough, but it's not invincible. Extreme heat and cold can affect battery life, screen responsiveness, and band integrity.
Watch out for:
- Leaving your watch on a car dashboard in summer (temperatures can exceed 150°F inside a parked car)
- Wearing it in a sauna or hot tub (steam and heat combined are especially damaging)
- Exposing it to rapid temperature changes (going from freezing outdoors to a hot shower)
If it's uncomfortable for your skin, it's uncomfortable for your watch.
Store It Properly When Not in Use
Tossing your watch on the nightstand, into a drawer, or the bottom of a bag is a recipe for scratches and damage.
Simple storage solutions:
- A small watch box or case (doesn't need to be expensive)
- A soft pouch or cloth wrap
- A designated spot on your dresser, away from keys and coins
If you have multiple watches, a watch roll or stand keeps them organized and protected. Think of it like parking your car in a garage instead of leaving it on the street.
Know Your Water Resistance Rating
"Water resistant" doesn't mean "waterproof." And the rating on your watch matters more than you think.
| Rating | Can Handle | Cannot Handle |
|---|---|---|
| 3 ATM / 30m | Rain, hand washing, splashes | Swimming, showering |
| 5 ATM / 50m | Swimming, showering | Diving, high-pressure water |
| 10 ATM / 100m | Snorkeling, recreational swimming | Deep diving |
Important: Water resistance degrades over time. A watch rated for 5 ATM when new might not hold up after 2–3 years of daily wear. When in doubt, keep it dry.
Never press buttons underwater. Even on water-resistant watches, the buttons create openings that can let water in when pressed.
Replace the Band Before It Breaks
Watch bands wear out faster than the watch itself — and that's normal. Silicone bands crack. Leather dries out. Metal links stretch. Don't wait until the band snaps (usually at the worst possible moment).
Replace when you notice:
- Cracks or peeling on silicone/leather bands
- Discoloration that won't clean off
- The band feeling loose or stretched
- Skin irritation from a degraded material
A fresh band makes your watch look and feel brand new — and it's a fraction of the cost of a new watch. Most of our watches use standard band sizes, making replacements easy to find.
The 30-Second Daily Routine
Want the simplest possible care routine? Do this every night when you take your watch off:
Wipe the back of the watch and band with a dry cloth
Place it on a clean, dry surface — not inside a drawer
Charge if needed — plug in and you're done
That's it. Thirty seconds a day. Your watch stays clean, dry, charged, and ready for tomorrow.
Your watch is an investment — treat it like one. You don't need fancy cleaning kits or professional maintenance. Just a few simple habits that take almost no time. A little care goes a long way.
Looking for a timepiece built to last?
Every watch is inspected, authenticated, and shipped free. No subscriptions. No hidden fees.
Browse the Collection
