Essential Guide to Care and Maintenance of Dive Watches
Owning a dive watch signifies more than just telling time — it represents the spirit of adventure, exploration, and reliability under pressure. To ensure your dive watch continues to serve you efficiently and stand the test of time, we suggest that you practice the proper care and maintenance of dive watches.
In this guide, we'll go into the steps you need to take to preserve the longevity and functionality of your dive watch through the proper care and maintenance of dive watches.
Why Do You Need to Care for Your Dive Watch?
Caring for your dive watch maintains its performance and longevity. Dive watches are specifically designed to withstand the harsh conditions of underwater environments, but they still require proper care to ensure their water resistance is preserved.
When you practice the proper care and maintenance of dive watches, you can extend their lifespan and enjoy their functionality for years to come.
How to Care for Your Dive Watch
When it comes to your dive watch, proper care and maintenance of dive watches start with regular upkeep. Here's a breakdown of the steps you need to follow:
Rinse After Every Dive
Rinsing after every dive helps to prevent salt crystals, sand, and other debris from building up and causing damage. When you rinse your watch, use fresh water rather than seawater, as seawater contains salt that can harm the watch's finish and potentially cause corrosion.
Rinse your dive watch under a gentle stream of water, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, including the case, band, and crown.
Use a gentle brush to clean your dive watch. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a brush specifically designed for cleaning watches. Use gentle, circular motions to remove any debris that may have gotten lodged in between the links of the band or around the case. Be gentle when cleaning the crown, which is the part of the watch that you use to set the time and date.
Protect from Chemicals
Substances like cleaning agents and perfumes contain chemicals that can tarnish or corrode the finish of your dive watch. When these chemicals come into contact with the watch's metal components or surfaces, they can cause discoloration, erosion, or deterioration of the materials over time.
Avoid wearing your dive watch when using cleaning agents or applying perfumes, as these substances can inadvertently come into contact with the watch and compromise its exterior. This includes the case, band, and other components. This helps maintain the pristine condition of your dive watch and uphold its aesthetic appeal for years to come.
Avoid Magnetic Fields
Exposure to strong magnetic fields can disrupt the intricate components and mechanisms within the watch, particularly the internal workings of the movement. This disruption can lead to erratic timekeeping and affect the overall performance of your dive watch.
Common electronic devices that emit strong magnetic fields include speakers, smartphones, tablets, laptops, and certain kitchen appliances. To prevent potential magnetic interference, store your dive watch away from these devices and other sources of magnetic fields when it's not in use.
Proper Storage
When not in use, store your dive watch in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature changes. Exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading and discoloration, while extreme temperatures can impact the watch's movement and overall functionality.
Consider investing in a designated watch case or storage box to provide additional protection. This shields your watch from dust, moisture, and potential impact when not on your wrist.
Maintenance Tips for Your Dive Watch
The regular care and maintenance of dive watches ensure your dive watch performs at its best. Follow these maintenance tips to keep your dive watch in top condition:
Pressure Tests
Pressure tests for dive watches evaluate a watch's capability to withstand the pressures encountered in underwater environments. These tests ensure the water resistance of your dive watch and identify any potential issues with seals or gaskets.
Schedule regular pressure tests with a professional watchmaker or authorized service center. It is recommended to have a pressure test performed at least once a year to ensure the watch's water resistance is intact.
Bezel Maintenance and Seal Inspection
The rotating bezel of a dive watch is an important feature for tracking time underwater. Ensure it rotates smoothly and is free from debris or sand. If the bezel feels stiff or sticky, it may require professional cleaning and lubrication.
Periodically inspect the seals and gaskets of your dive watch for signs of wear or damage as well. These seals keep your watch water-resistant. If you notice any degradation or deterioration, have them replaced by a qualified technician to ensure the integrity of your watch.
Strap and Bracelet Care
If your dive watch is equipped with a rubber strap or metal bracelet, clean it regularly to remove dirt, sweat, and salt residue. For rubber straps, use mild soap and water, while metal bracelets can be cleaned with a soft brush and soapy water. Dry them thoroughly before wearing or storing them.
Professional Servicing
Every 2 to 3 years, consider sending your dive watch to a professional watch technician for comprehensive servicing. They will disassemble the watch, clean each component, lubricate the moving parts, and inspect for any signs of wear or damage.
Servicing your dive watch regularly helps maintain its accuracy and longevity. La Touraine offers professional watch servicing for US customers.
Engage in the Proper Care and Maintenance of Dive Watches
Engaging in the proper care and maintenance of dive watches protects your investment and ensures the continued performance of your timepiece. When you implement proper care and maintenance of dive watches, you're not just preserving the functionality and aesthetics of your dive watch; you're also embracing a lifestyle of precision and commitment to quality.
La Touraine understands the bond between a watch enthusiast and their timepiece, offering an exclusive range of men's dive watches that combine classic style with unbeatable value. For a diverse collection of men's designer watches that tell a unique story and embody affordable luxury, visit La Touraine's Dive Watches Collection.
Let your dive watch from La Touraine be a reflection of your passion for exploration and enduring quality. If you don't own one yet, shop dive watches today!