Guides · Use and care

Service and lifespan

A mechanical watch should be serviced roughly every 5–7 years: the movement is taken apart, cleaned, oiled and adjusted, and the gaskets are replaced so it stays water resistant. Looked after like that, it lasts for generations. A quartz watch only needs a new battery every 2–5 years — and new gaskets at the same time if it is going in water. The price of a service depends on the movement; the watchmaker or the brand's service centre will tell you in advance.

In everyday life: keep the watch away from magnets, rinse off salt water with fresh water, take it off for ball games and tools, and do not leave an automatic watch lying in the sun in a hot car. Our own rules for warranty, complaints and service are on warranty and care.

If you have a question about a particular watch, ask Nord, our assistant, at the bottom right — or write to us.

More guides about use and care

Use and careHow to wind a watchIf your automatic watch has stopped, wind it at the crown: turn it forwards (away from you) 20–30 turns in the innermost position, and the spring is charged and the watch… Use and careHow to set the date and timeOn most watches you pull the crown out to the first click to set the date (and day) and to the outermost click for the time. Use and careBattery replacement on a quartz watchA quartz battery typically lasts 2–5 years (chronographs use more).