This one’s for the horologists out there. A watch is more than just another accessory. It could be a lasting heirloom passed down for generations. It could be a beautiful gift from a loved one. A truly iconic accessory, watches have been traditionally gifted as a symbol of great milestones and accomplishments like graduation, promotion, or retirement. In more ways than one, watches hold weight (who doesn’t love the heavy feeling of a well-made watch in their hand?) Watches are prized possessions and need to be cared for as such - and not just for sentimental reasons. Watches are like the opera divas of the accessory world: a watch that has been cherished and curated will last many lifetimes, but a watch that has been forgotten can require expensive repair until it’s up and running again.
Not only does caring for a watch increase its lifespan and accuracy, but it also can turn into a regular, meditative ritual to tend to a watch’s maintenance. The inner workings of a mechanical watch are intricate and thoughtfully designed to work symbiotically with the natural movement of the human wrist, making watches the perfect daily companion. The first clock was invented in 1275 and required meticulous upkeep to be able to track the hours, making it one of the greatest technological advancements of the time. In 1926, the first mechanical automatic watch was invented - which means it could wind itself using only gravity and natural swings in an arm. Watch lovers have been mesmerized by the intricacies of watches throughout the ages, and connect to history and the magic of human ingenuity that follows the invention and innovation of the watch. This is why it’s so important to take the responsibility of owning a watch seriously and follow these steps to keep it ticking like the day it was assembled.
Keep it Clean
These babies have all kinds of little crevices and cracks that can allow dust and particulates to accumulate and cause build-up. This can affect both the shine and elegance of a watch, as well as the functionality of the mechanism. The most important thing to consider before cleaning a watch is the water resistance. If it’s not a watch that is designed to go in the water, stick to a regular habit of cleaning with a dry, lint-free cloth. If the watch is a dive watch or another sporting watch with water resistance, a little bit of cool water and dish soap will do the trick.
Wind it Up, Wear it Out
Listen, watches are made to be used. A manual mechanical watch has to be wound daily with the crown on the side. The ingenious automatic mechanical watch, on the other hand, lives in symbiosis with the lifestyle of its wearer. The roter inside of the watch’s movement (the movement is what we call the inner mechanism that does all the time-telling) is an oscillating, semi-circular weight that moves with the natural movement of a wrist throughout the day. Watches have got to move, too. The lubricants that keep it running smoothly can get clogged and stagnant if the watch is neglected for too long. However, we can’t be out here wearing every single watch we own every day. For off-days, winders are the way to go.
For the Character
Need a pop of color and the perfect spot for a watch’s off day? Look no further than the Cub Winder with Cover by WOLF1834. Winders are great for keeping a watch in tip-top shape while not fixed on a wrist, and this simple and chic winder comes in 12 eye-popping vegan leather covers.
For the Collector
We love a watch for every occasion. The Roadster 8 Piece Winder by Wolf 1834 makes sure that any watch in a collection will be ready to go at the drop of a hat. Inspired by British motorcars like Jaguar and Aston Martin with aged wood, glove-soft leather, and chrome accents harken back to iconic vintage cars.
For the Connoisseur
Keep those luxury pieces wound up and secure in the Churchill 12 Piece Watch Safe WOLF1834. This baby has twelve separate spaces for watches to be housed and wound, all in a padlock-secure safe with a gorgeous crocodile finish. Great for the timepieces and the peace of mind.
Photo credits: Jay-r Alvarez on Pexels and Pixabay on Pexels