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Guide to Cleaning Your Timepiece

September 5th, 2024

a man’s hand resting on a metal rail wearing a white and silver luxury watch

Maintaining your timepieces in pristine condition is crucial for ensuring their longevity and precise performance. Cleanliness is not just about aesthetics, it plays a vital role in the functionality and reliability of your watch. Dirt and grime can accumulate over time, affecting the intricate mechanisms and reducing the accuracy of your cherished pieces. To help you preserve the integrity of your watches, our team here at La Différence Time Centre has curated a comprehensive guide dedicated to proper care. This resource is designed to assist you in keeping your timepieces in top shape, allowing them to continue marking life’s precious moments with unmatched precision.

Use a Soft Cloth

Regularly wiping your watch with a soft, microfiber cloth is essential for maintaining its brilliance. This simple habit not only preserves the watch's aesthetic appeal but also prevents the buildup of oils, dirt, and dust that can degrade the finish. A quick daily wipe helps protect the delicate materials from unnecessary wear and tear, ensuring that your timepiece continues to shine and function as intended for years to come.

a woman standing next to an open car door, wearing a white and gold watch

Avoid Water Exposure

Although many watches are water-resistant, it's best to avoid full submersion unless specified by the manufacturer. Even with water-resistant models, prolonged exposure to water can weaken seals and allow moisture to seep into the case, potentially damaging the internal mechanisms. A lightly dampened cloth is ideal for cleaning, offering a safe way to keep your watch clean without risking any unwanted water intrusion.

Clean the Bracelet

The bracelet of your watch can accumulate dirt and grime, especially between the links. Using a small, soft-bristled brush to gently clean these areas is an effective way to maintain the bracelet’s appearance and comfort. This regular care not only keeps the bracelet looking new but also prevents buildup from affecting its flexibility or causing wear on the metal over time.

a man putting on a fine silver watch and wearing suit pants

Mind the Crown

Ensuring the crown is fully secured before cleaning your watch is a crucial step in preventing moisture from entering the case. Whether it’s pushed in or screwed down, a properly secured crown is your watch’s first line of defence against water damage. This small precaution can protect the delicate internal components from corrosion and maintain the watch’s performance and longevity. 

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Harsh chemicals and abrasive materials can quickly damage the delicate finish of your watch, potentially ruining its appearance and affecting its functionality. Mild soap and water, applied sparingly, are usually sufficient for cleaning most watches. Avoiding harsh substances ensures that the materials—whether metal, leather, or synthetic—remain intact, preserving the watch’s integrity and preventing any unintended damage that could result from more aggressive cleaning agents.

A stylish man wearing a leather banded watch

Store Properly

Proper storage of your watch when not in use is essential for maintaining its condition. Keeping your timepiece in its original box or a dedicated watch case protects it from dust, scratches, and potential environmental damage. A well-stored watch also avoids unnecessary exposure to humidity or extreme temperatures, which can degrade both the exterior and internal components, ensuring that your watch remains in pristine condition for years.

Bring It In for Professional Care

For comprehensive care, it's wise to bring your watch to us at La Différence for expert attention from the watch manufacturer of your timepiece. We can easily arrange for factory-level maintenance by the manufacturer, addressing any wear or potential issues that at-home care might have missed. This professional service ensures that your luxury timepieces are meticulously inspected, cleaned, and maintained to preserve their value and performance while offering peace of mind that it will continue to operate flawlessly. Typically it is encouraged to have your watches routinely maintained by a professional every five to ten years to extend their longevity.

a woman holding a basketball and wearing a white athletic watch

Explore Incredible Watches at La Différence Time Centre

Step into a world of luxury at La Différence Time Centre, nestled in Markham, just minutes from Toronto. Our collection of luxury watches are designed to captivate, while our luxury watch courier system for timepiece services ensures your treasured pieces are shipped directly to the watch manufacturers for maintenance. Our dedicated team is here to assist with your watch buying experience. Request an appointment today for a personalised consultation with our watch specialists.