Old clocks have a way of being handled | How to enjoy your vintage watch for a long time
Vintage watches possess a charm that new watches simply do not.
The aged dial, the small scratches etched into the case, designs no longer seen today, and the movement that has continued to tick for many years. Each one has a character that goes beyond just a wristwatch.
However, if vintage watches are treated with the same mindset as modern watches, unexpected problems can arise. Old watches require a specific way of handling them.
This article introduces the basic handling tips you should know to enjoy your vintage watch for a long time.
Remember that a vintage watch is an "old machine"
A vintage watch is a precision machine that has lived a long life. Even if it looks clean, the internal oil may have dried up, parts may be worn, and gaskets may have deteriorated.
Unlike new watches, it cannot be assumed to be safe against strong impacts, water, or magnetism. First and foremost, it's important to have the mindset of "a watch to be handled with care."
Don't overtrust water resistance
Water is a particular concern with vintage watches. Even models originally manufactured as water-resistant watches may now have deteriorated cases, crowns, and case back gaskets.
Even watches with water resistance markings may not retain their original water resistance after many years. Care should be taken with handwashing, rain, sweat, and humidity.
Especially with antique and vintage watches, it's safest to treat them with the mindset of generally "keeping them away from water."
Wind a hand-wound watch slowly and gently
For hand-wound watches, the feel of winding the crown is part of the pleasure. However, winding too strongly or quickly, or forcing it past the winding stop, can put a strain on the mainspring and internal components.
Winding slowly and gently at the same time every day is a good habit for the watch.
If you feel excessive resistance or anything unusual while winding, do not force it and consult us for inspection.
Be careful when changing the date
For vintage watches with a date display, care must be taken when operating the calendar. During nighttime hours, the gears inside that switch the date may have already started to move.
Forcing the date forward during that time can put a strain on the calendar mechanism. As a guideline, it's safest to avoid fast-forwarding the date between around 8 PM and 3 AM.
When setting the date, we recommend advancing the hands to a safe time zone first before operating.
Keep away from magnetic fields
Modern life contains many sources of magnetism. Smartphones, computers, tablets, speakers, bag magnets, and wireless chargers can all affect watches.
If a watch becomes magnetized, it may start to run fast, slow, or stop altogether. It is important to note that many vintage watches are not as resistant to magnetism as modern anti-magnetic watches.
At CONTÉVANOU, we also offer demagnetization services for watches. If you experience a sudden large deviation in time, please feel free to consult us.
Avoid strong impacts
Vintage watches may not be suitable for sports or work. Care should be taken in situations where strong vibrations or impacts may occur, such as golf, tennis, cycling, motorcycling, or handling heavy loads.
Older watches may have more delicate internal components than current watches. Drops or strong impacts can cause hands to shift, accuracy problems, or the watch to stop.
It's important to use your precious vintage watch with a little extra care in your daily life.
Store away from humidity and direct sunlight
When storing your watch, avoid humid places and direct sunlight. Humidity can lead to internal rust and dial deterioration.
Additionally, prolonged direct sunlight can cause discoloration and deterioration of the dial, hands, and leather straps. When storing, it is recommended to use a well-ventilated area or a watch case.
For leather straps, avoid storing them with sweat or moisture. Even just wiping them lightly with a soft cloth after use can extend their lifespan.
Even unused watches should be checked periodically
Vintage watches can change condition even when stored unused. A watch that has not been run for a long time may experience hardening of internal oils or sluggish movement of parts.
For mechanical watches, it's reassuring to periodically check their condition and see if there are any abnormalities in winding or operation. For quartz vintage watches, leaving a dead battery can lead to leakage.
Even if you don't use it for a long time, regular inspections can prevent major problems.
If you notice a problem, don't force it to continue working
If the time is significantly off, winding is stiff, the crown feels strange, it stops quickly, or the date doesn't change properly. In such cases, it's important not to force it to continue working.
If addressed when the problem is minor, repairs may be simple. Conversely, forcing it to continue working can put a strain on internal parts and lead to more extensive repairs.
For vintage watches, early consultation is key to long-term enjoyment.
Vintage watches are meant to be "enjoyed while being repaired"
Vintage watches are not something you can use carelessly like a new watch. However, that little bit of care is part of the joy of vintage watches.
Using an old machine with care. Maintaining it occasionally and passing it on to the next generation.
That is a way of engaging with a watch that goes beyond simply telling time.
The patination on the dial and the small scratches on the case are part of the time the watch has lived. The ability to enjoy a character not found in perfect new watches is a great appeal of vintage watches.
For vintage watch inquiries, contact CONTÉVANOU
At CONTÉVANOU, we offer consultations on vintage watch handling, condition checks, strap replacement, demagnetization, cleaning, and overhauls.
If you are looking for a vintage watch in the Yoyogi, Hatsudai, or Shinjuku areas, or considering maintenance for your antique or pre-owned watch, please feel free to contact us.
Old watches have a specific way of handling them. We will propose usage and maintenance tailored to the condition of your precious watch so you can continue to enjoy it for many years to come.
About CONTÉVANOU, Authorized Watch and Jewelry Retailer
CONTÉVANOU, an authorized watch and jewelry retailer, is an authorized dealer of watches and jewelry located in Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo. In addition to watch sales, we also offer post-purchase maintenance services such as battery replacement, strap replacement, size adjustment, cleaning, demagnetization, and overhaul consultations.
If you are considering vintage watches, mechanical watches, watch repair, or watch maintenance in the Yoyogi, Hatsudai, or Shinjuku areas, please stop by CONTÉVANOU.
CONTÉVANOU, Authorized Watch and Jewelry Retailer
4-28-7 Nishisando Terrace E1, Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-0053
TEL: 03-3299-8008
Business Hours: 11:00 AM - 7:30 PM (Closed Wednesdays)
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