What is watch "magnetization"? How to tell with a compass, a small cause of time deviation

My watch has suddenly started running fast.
It was fine yesterday, but now I notice it's several minutes, or even more, ahead.

When a mechanical watch exhibits such symptoms, one of the suspected causes is magnetization.

Magnetization is a state where the metal parts inside a watch are affected by magnetism.
A watch contains very delicate components that move precisely within a small case. Especially in mechanical watches, if the parts responsible for accuracy are affected by magnetism, the time can run significantly fast or slow, or the movement can become unstable.

Modern life is full of magnetic fields for watches

Magnetization doesn't only occur in special environments.

Smartphones, computers, tablets, speakers, earbud cases, magnetic clasps on bags and wallets, refrigerator magnets, electric razors, hair dryers, etc.
There are surprisingly many things in daily life that can affect a watch.

Particular attention should be paid to where you place your watch after taking it off.

Right next to your smartphone.
On top of your laptop.
Near the magnetic part of your bag.
Near speakers or chargers.

Leaving your watch in such places for extended periods can cause it to become magnetized.

Why does a watch run fast when it's magnetized?

Inside a mechanical watch, there are very fine parts that regulate the progression of time.
The most prominent of these is the hairspring.

The hairspring regulates the oscillating motion of a component called the balance wheel, making it almost the heart of a mechanical watch.

When this fine, coiled component is affected by magnetism, its coils can slightly attract each other, disrupting the oscillation cycle.

As a result, the watch moves at a faster pace than it should, causing it to gain significant time.

Of course, not all time discrepancies are due to magnetization.
There can be several causes, such as lack of lubrication, impact, wear of parts, or not having had an overhaul for a long time.

However,

"It suddenly started running significantly fast."
"Its accuracy has clearly worsened compared to before."
"Its performance changed after I placed it near a smartphone or magnet."

In such cases, it's worth suspecting magnetization.

How to check for magnetization with a compass

You can roughly check for magnetization using a compass.

First, place the compass on a flat surface.
Wait for the needle to stabilize and point north.

Next, slowly bring your watch close to the compass.
The key is not to bring the watch close suddenly, but to move it slowly, centimeter by centimeter.

If the compass needle swings significantly when you bring the watch close, there's a possibility that the watch is magnetized.

Guidelines for compass check

If the needle only sways slightly, it might be due to very weak magnetism or a reaction to metal parts.

If the needle clearly moves when you bring the watch close, it's possible that it's magnetized.

If the compass needle swings significantly every time you change the watch's orientation, it's likely heavily affected by magnetism.

However, checking with a compass is only a simple test.

Quartz watches can also be affected by magnetism

While magnetization is often thought to be an issue only for mechanical watches, quartz watches can also be affected by magnetism.

Especially in analog quartz watches, the area around the motor that drives the hands can be affected by magnetism.
Symptoms can include the hands stopping, erratic movement, or temporarily displaying the wrong time.

In the case of mechanical watches, magnetism can significantly disrupt the accuracy itself.
In quartz watches, magnetism may only affect the movement of the hands while the watch is near a magnetic source.

In any case, if your watch's performance suddenly changes, it's a good idea to consider the possibility of magnetic influence.

Is it okay to demagnetize it myself?

Household demagnetizers are sold online.
However, it's generally not recommended to demagnetize a watch yourself without checking its structure and condition.

The reason is that the cause of time discrepancies isn't always magnetization.

Even if you suspect magnetization, the actual issue could be lack of lubrication, worn parts, impact damage, or problems with the mainspring or balance wheel.
In such cases, demagnetization alone won't fix it.

Also, if accuracy doesn't return after the magnetic influence is removed, an internal inspection or overhaul may be necessary.

The important thing is to first determine the cause.

What to be careful about to prevent magnetization

The best way to prevent magnetization is to avoid bringing your watch too close to strong magnetic sources.

After taking off your watch, don't place it right next to your smartphone or computer.
Don't let it adhere to the magnetic clasp of your bag.
Don't leave it next to speakers or chargers.
Keep it away from refrigerator magnets or magnetic necklaces.

The place where you store your watch is particularly important.
The spot you habitually place it every night might actually be an unfavorable environment for your watch.

A watch is a small machine, but its condition can change depending on where and how you handle it daily.
A little care can help avoid unnecessary problems.

If you suspect magnetization, check it at a store.

The compass needle swung significantly when I checked it.
My watch has recently started running significantly fast.
It's been acting up since I placed it near my smartphone or bag's magnet.
I don't know if it's magnetized or if it needs repair.

In such cases, please don't try to diagnose it yourself; bring your watch to our store.

At Comptoir, we offer consultations regarding accuracy issues, magnetization, battery replacement, strap replacement, overhauls, and watch repairs for both mechanical and quartz watches.

If it's magnetization, it can sometimes be remedied relatively quickly depending on the condition.
On the other hand, there might be other underlying causes, such as lack of lubrication inside or worn parts.

The important thing is to first assess the condition without making assumptions about the symptoms.

Because a wristwatch is something you use every day, a slight sense of unease can be a significant sign.
If you feel "something seems a little off lately," please don't hesitate to contact Comptoir.