A wristwatch can be an intricate device. Occasionally, it might break down – but in many cases, the problem can be swiftly corrected with the right intervention. Let’s look at a few of the more common causes of Mechanical watches malfunction and how they might be addressed.
Dead or Low Battery
A quartz watch relies on an internal battery. When this dies, so too will the watch. Fortunately, in most cases, it’s easy to fix this problem yourself – provided that you have a little patience, and you know how to pop open the rear of the watch. The battery will be tiny, coin-shaped, and silver. Make a note of the code on the back, and shop for another battery of the same value.
If you’re unsure of what you’re doing, or there are no screws to remove, then you might instead take your watch to a professional. They may be able to replace the battery and reseal the watch within an hour.
Inaccurate Timekeeping
Quartz watches tend to offer pinpoint accuracy. Mechanical watches, however, can potentially slip out of time. This can occur for a range of reasons. Some of the components inside the watch may have become magnetised, which can affect the movement of the gears. The gears might also have been affected by a sudden impact, like a fall.
It should be noted that mechanical watches are designed to be periodically serviced. Do this proactively, and you’ll minimise the likelihood of a problem occurring.
Worn or Damaged Straps
Wear to the straps might seem like a cosmetic issue. But the straps can really affect how comfortable the watch is, and your quality of life while wearing it. Straps can be replaced, either entirely or in part.
You could look for pre-owned watches, whose straps might already have been adjusted and cared for. Just make sure that you have enough links that you can remove some of them to fit your wrist.
Water Damage
Water might find its way into the interior of your watch. If it’s a digital watch, this can be disastrous. Mechanical watches can also suffer, since water trapped inside the watch can eventually degrade the sensitive components there. Even if the watch appears fine on the outside, it may be suffering on the inside.
First, remove any obvious water. Then, store the watch inside a small Tupperware container alongside some silica gel. Don’t try to heat the watch with a hair dryer – this might cause warping which is even more damaging than moisture.
It’s worth guarding against these problems proactively by having the watch periodically pressure-tested, to make sure that it meets with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Even if the watch isn’t going to be submerged, airborne moisture can still find its way inside, where it can condense and cause problems. A reliable seal will prevent this.