8 Mistakes Every Watch Collector Should Know And Avoid

Summary

This video discusses common mistakes that watch collectors make in day-to-day ownership and how to avoid them. The speaker shares personal experiences, offering practical tips on topics like clasp alignment, careful handling of straps and bracelets, and proper care for watch crystals and crowns. Key points include the importance of bracelet sizing for comfort, avoiding damage while changing straps, and taking care when using screw-down crowns. Additionally, advice is given on avoiding overwinding watches, mishandling complications, and the potential risks posed by magnets. Overall, the video aims to help watch enthusiasts maintain their collections in better condition.

Takeaways

• 🔧 Proper clasp alignment is crucial for comfort when sizing a bracelet. Ensure the clasp is centered on the wrist, and consider removing fewer links on the 6 o'clock side for a better fit.
• ⚠️ Be cautious when changing straps and sizing bracelets. Mistakes can lead to scratches and damage, so use tape or consult a professional if unsure.
• 💎 Sapphire crystal is scratch-resistant but not indestructible. It can still scratch from contact with diamonds, and it's vulnerable to shattering from impacts.
• 🔩 Be mindful of screw-down crowns and threading. Cross-threading can damage the crown, so always screw it in carefully and fully to maintain water resistance.
• ⏲️ Avoid overwinding a watch or setting the time when it's on your wrist. This can lead to damage, especially with delicate vintage watches.
• 📅 Never change the date or day on your watch between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m., as this can interfere with the internal mechanics of many watches.
• 🚫 Don't engage pushers on a chronograph underwater unless the watch is specifically designed for it. Water can damage the seals and lead to expensive repairs.
• 🧲 Be aware of magnets around your watch. Magnetic fields can interfere with the accuracy of mechanical watches, though new materials and technologies offer more resistance.
• 🛠️ If you're not confident in making adjustments yourself, it's always better to seek professional help, especially with tricky elements like pin and collar bracelets.
• 🛡️ Acrylic crystals, though more prone to scratches than sapphire, have benefits like being easier to polish and less prone to shattering.

Q & A

What is the first mistake watch collectors often make when sizing their bracelets?

The first mistake is not properly aligning the clasp on the bracelet. Many collectors focus only on the circumference of their wrist, but the position of the clasp can affect comfort. It's important to ensure the clasp is centered on the back of the wrist.

Why is having fewer links on the 6 o'clock side of the bracelet recommended?

Having fewer links on the 6 o'clock side of the bracelet can help center the clasp more comfortably on the back of the wrist, which improves the overall fit and reduces discomfort.

What precautions should be taken when changing watch straps or sizing bracelets?

When changing straps or sizing bracelets, you should be careful with spring bars, as they can easily scratch the watch. Using tape on the back of the lugs can help prevent scratches. Additionally, when sizing bracelets with screws, make sure to handle them carefully to avoid damage.

Is sapphire crystal indestructible, as many people believe?

No, sapphire crystal is not indestructible. While it is highly scratch-resistant, it can still be scratched by harder materials like diamonds. Sapphire is also more prone to shattering when dropped compared to acrylic.

What should watch collectors be aware of when handling screw-down crowns?

Collectors should ensure that the screw-down crown is always fully screwed in, especially before coming into contact with water. Care should also be taken to avoid cross-threading the crown when screwing it back in, as this can damage the crown and lead to costly repairs.

What common mistake do people make when winding or setting a watch while it’s on their wrist?

Winding or setting a watch while it is on the wrist can put pressure on the delicate crown stem and throw off the mechanisms inside. It's best to remove the watch before making any adjustments.

Why is it important to avoid changing the date or day during certain hours?

Changing the date or day between 8:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m. can damage the movement because the watch is usually in the process of changing the date or day on its own. It’s better to wait until you're outside this window.

What is the potential issue with using chronograph pushers underwater?

Engaging chronograph pushers underwater can compromise the watch’s water resistance, even if the watch is rated for water resistance. It's best to avoid using pushers while submerged unless the watch has specific features like screw-down pushers designed for underwater use.

How do magnets affect mechanical watches?

Magnets can disrupt the balance wheel and balance spring in mechanical watches, causing timing issues. While some watches are built to resist magnetic fields, it’s best to avoid exposure to magnets whenever possible.

What is the benefit of using acrylic crystals in watches despite their vulnerability to scratches?

Acrylic crystals are less likely to shatter and can be polished to remove scratches, unlike sapphire crystals. They also tend to smudge less, offering advantages despite being more scratch-prone.