How to Care for Your Swiss Automatic Watch

A Swiss automatic watch is built to last generations — and a little care keeps it at its best.

Wind it and wear it. An automatic winds itself as you move; if it stops, give the crown 20–30 turns before setting the time. Avoid changing the date between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m., when the movement is engaging the date mechanism.

Keep it clean and dry. Rinse with fresh water after contact with salt water, dry gently, and wipe the case and bracelet with a soft cloth. Avoid sudden temperature changes and strong magnetic fields.

Mind the water resistance. Have the gaskets checked periodically and never operate the crown or pushers underwater. Always screw the crown fully home before any contact with water.

Service it on schedule. Every few years, have the movement serviced by an approved watchmaker. A watch built to be repaired is a watch you can hand down.