A guide to keeping your watch beautiful and precise for years to come.

A fine watch is more than just a way to keep time, it’s a masterpiece of craftsmanship and engineering, built to be worn, enjoyed, and passed down. At Gregory Jewellers, we know that with the right care, your timepiece will look and perform at its best for decades.

Our Essential Care Tips
Before wearing your watch, take a moment to read the operating instructions and warranty information supplied by the manufacturer. Please note: any repairs or alterations carried out by unauthorised watchmakers during the warranty period may void your coverage.
In addition to regular servicing, here are our recommendations for everyday care:

Understanding Your Movement

Automatic
An automatic mechanical watch is powered by the motion of your wrist, storing energy in a finely wound spring. A full wind usually provides at least 38 hours of power reserve (modern models often extend to 70 hours). If your watch stops, wind it manually with around 20 clockwise turns of the crown before resetting the time and date.

Hand-wound
These watches require daily winding for optimal accuracy. Turn the crown clockwise until you feel resistance, never force it further to avoid damage. Most hand-wound models offer 40 hours of power reserve.

Quartz
Powered by a battery, quartz watches require minimal upkeep. Many feature an End of Life (EOL) indicator, when the seconds hand jumps in 4-second intervals, the battery needs replacing. Always have batteries changed by an authorised service centre, where seals can also be checked and replaced to maintain water-resistance.

Protecting Your Timepiece

• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Heat and cold can affect lubricants, shorten battery life, and compromise water-resistance. Never wear your watch in saunas, steam rooms, or hot showers.
• Limit Vibration: Strong shocks and repetitive impacts can damage the movement. Remove your watch before high-impact sports or activities.
• Steer Clear of Chemicals: Solvents, detergents, perfumes, and cosmetics can damage seals, straps, and finishes.
• Guard Against Magnetism: Keep your watch away from strong magnetic fields (e.g., speakers, magnetic clasps). Quartz watches recover quickly, but mechanical models may require demagnetisation if affected.
• Water-Resistance Checks: Even water-resistant watches need annual seal inspections. Never adjust the crown or pushers underwater and contact us promptly if you see condensation inside the case.

Strap and Bracelet Care
Metal Bracelets : Occasionally brush with a soft toothbrush to remove dust or sand.
Leather Straps: Avoid water, oils, and prolonged sun exposure, which can fade or weaken leather. In hot weather, consider swapping to a metal or rubber strap to preserve its condition.
Rubber Straps: Keep away from oils, cosmetics, and prolonged heat. Clean occasionally with mild soapy water and rinse thoroughly.

Routine Maintenance
Even the finest timepieces require regular servicing to maintain accuracy and reliability. Clean the case and bracelet gently with a soft, dry cloth and avoid wearing other jewellery next to your watch to prevent scratches.

Gregory Jewellers After-Sales Service
Our authorised service centres are here to maintain your timepiece with the utmost care. From battery changes to full servicing, you can trust our watch specialists to keep your investment performing beautifully for years to come.

Caring for your timepiece is only the beginning. Discover our collection of luxury watches and add another timepiece to your collection.