Watch Habits That Will Ruin Your Timepiece

5 Worst Things to Do with Your Watch

<

Watches are not just accessories; they’re like trusty sidekicks that tell you more than just the time. Whether it’s a rugged diver or a sleek dress watch, you gotta treat it right. Messing up can ruin your timepiece, and nobody wants that headache. Here’s the lowdown on the five worst things you can do to your watch, so you can keep it ticking for years.

1. Wearing It in the Shower

Taking your watch into the shower is a big no-no. Even if it’s got “water-resistant” stamped on it, hot water, soap, and steam can sneak past those seals and mess up the insides. I learned this the hard way when I wore my old Timex into the shower one morning, thinking it could handle it. Next thing I know, the face was fogged up, and it never worked right again. Stick to keeping your watch dry unless it’s built for diving.

2. Ignoring Regular Maintenance

Your watch isn’t a “set it and forget it” deal. Skipping regular cleanings or servicing is like never changing the oil in your truck—it’ll break down eventually. Mechanical watches especially need a tune-up every few years to keep the gears smooth. Neglect it, and you’re looking at costly repairs or a dead watch. Take it to a pro to keep it running like a champ.

3. Using It as a Tool

Don’t be that guy using his watch to pry open a beer bottle or hammer a nail. It’s not a multi-tool! Scratches, dents, or cracked crystals can ruin its look and value. I’ve seen buddies try to use their watches for all sorts of dumb stuff, and it’s painful to watch. Keep it classy and use the right tool for the job.

4. Storing It Near Magnets

Magnets are your watch’s worst enemy. They can mess with the movement, making it run fast, slow, or just stop. Stuff like speakers, phone cases, or even fridge magnets can cause havoc. I once left my watch on a magnetic knife strip in the kitchen—yep, rookie mistake. It was off by 10 minutes a day until I got it fixed. Keep your watch away from anything magnetic to avoid a trip to the repair shop.

5. Forgetting to Wind or Set It

If you’ve got a manual or automatic watch, forgetting to wind it or set it properly is a sin. Letting it sit for weeks without movement can cause the lubricants to gum up, and setting the time wrong can strain the gears. Make it a habit to wind it daily or wear it to keep it alive. It’s like forgetting to feed your dog—don’t do it, man.

More Galleries