You might be damaging your watch every day without realizing it. From the phone in your pocket to your morning routine, common habits can harm your timepiece in ways that accumulate over time.
1. Placing Your Watch Near Your Phone
Modern smartphones contain powerful magnets—especially those with wireless charging or MagSafe.
The Damage
Magnetic fields can magnetize the hairspring, causing your watch to run fast—sometimes by several minutes per day.
The Solution
Keep your watch at least 5-10cm from phones, tablets, and laptop speakers. Store separately at night.
2. Setting the Date at the Wrong Time
Most mechanical watches engage the date change mechanism several hours before and after midnight.
The Damage
Changing the date while gears are engaged (typically 9pm-3am) can strip teeth on the date wheel.
The Solution
Move hands to 6:00 before adjusting the date. Set date, then advance time to correct hour.
3. Wearing Your Watch in the Shower
Even 100m water resistant watches aren't designed for hot showers.
The Damage
Hot water and steam cause gaskets to expand/contract. Soap deteriorates seals. This leads to moisture intrusion over time.
The Solution
Remove your watch before showering, even dive watches. Keep a dish by your sink as a dedicated spot.
4. Applying Perfume While Wearing Your Watch
Your morning fragrance routine might be slowly destroying your strap.
The Damage
Alcohol in fragrances deteriorates leather, causes cracking, and can affect case finishes.
The Solution
Apply fragrance before putting on your watch. Let it dry completely first.
5. Leaving the Crown Unscrewed
After setting the time, many people don't fully push in or screw down the crown.
The Damage
An open crown allows dust and moisture to enter the movement directly.
The Solution
Always check crown position after adjustments. For screw-downs, gently screw until resistance—don't overtighten.
6. Playing Sports with Your Dress Watch
Dress watches have thinner cases and more delicate movements than sports watches.
The Damage
Impact shocks from tennis, golf, or weights can damage the balance staff, hairspring, or jewels.
The Solution
Use a dedicated sports watch or fitness tracker for activities. Remove dress watches for high-impact sports.
Breaking Bad Habits
Most watch damage from daily habits is completely preventable. A quality mechanical watch can last generations with proper care. The few seconds it takes to protect your watch is nothing compared to the cost of repairs.