Things you might not have known about watches
Whenever you get to a watch store, you might have this impulsive feeling of picking like each and every watch because they just seem irresistible. That is why, it is important to know some things about the watches so that, when you get to the store, you know specifically what you are looking for and why you have chosen it among the rest.
Complications: Get to know about the watch’s complications. Complication refers to any function which exists on a watch apart from the time telling. Watches which have various complications are normally the toughest to create due to the fact that, more elements are required to be added to the movement. The most widely used complications include:
Date: It is the simplest complication that you will find on any watch. Watches are in a capacity to display the day of the week, date, or even have a triple calendar which will include the month.
Chronograph: It is a complication function like a stopwatch where you will be able to measure time intervals without having to affect the main time of the watch. Depending on the type of watch, the chronograph will be able to time hours, minutes and seconds. There are different types of chronographs which include the flyback chronograph which fast resets the function of the timer when need be. There is also the rattrapante chronograph that has an extra hand which superimposes on the chronograph, enabling several events to be timed at the same time.
Power reservoir indicator: It allows you to see how much of the energy is left in the mainspring of the watch before the need for a wound. Each watch has its own amount of reserved energy to deserve a wound.
Moon phase: It is a complication which displays the current phase of the moon and is able to indicate if it is a full, new or quarter moon. There are some watches which beautifully displays the phase of the moon cycle with a nice illustration of the moon as it is able to complete a cycle via its aperture.
World time: It is a complex feature which displays 24 time zones at the same time. Watches which have this particular complication have an inner bezel which is rotating with a display of 24 hours together with an outer bezel that has major cities with their own time zones. Each day, the inner bezel is able to make a complete full revolution.
Taking care of a luxury watch: If you decide to purchase a luxury watch, it is important to remember that, they will require proper maintenance and care so that they are able to last for a longer period of time. It doesn’t matter how careful you are with your watch, with time, its components will be able to wear out from the usual wear and tear. It is recommended that, after every 4 to 5 years, you service your watch.
When the servicing is done professionally, it will be opened and an in-depth inspection will be done. While having this procedure, the gasket will be replaced by the professional, the oil will be changed, the necessary adjustments will be made, and repairs, as well as cleaning of the timepiece, will be done.
In case the watch you have is quartz, you will need to replace the battery before it dies because a dead battery might leak and damage the watch’s movement. An interesting exception to this rule are some of G-Shock's premium watch models that come with a solar panel & battery built in, and are therefore self-charging.
Apart from having your watch regularly checked and serviced, there are other practices of maintenance which you will need to look out for in order for your watch to function normally and at its best.
Make sure that you always review your user manual for instructions on how to care for your particular watch
When wiping your watch’s bracelet and case, try and use a microfiber which is soft in order to prevent dirt from being able to build up.
Understand the water-resistance of your watch due to the fact that models which are non-resistant have to be kept away from moisture all the time.
You need to avoid magnets due to the fact that, they are likely going to affect the performance of your watch. You need to remember there are electronics with magnets such as microwaves, TVs and speakers.
In case the watch you have is quartz, you will need to replace the battery before it dies because a dead battery might leak and damage the watch’s movement
When you are not putting on your watch, you will need to store it in a box safely
You should never try to open the watch on your own. All watches have to be opened by a certified watchmaker. In case you do it yourself, apart from exposing it to harm, due to the fact that, even a small element can ruin a watch. It could also mean that you are breaking the warranty on the watch.
That is why, it is important to know some things about the watches so that, when you get to the store, you know specifically what you are looking for and why you have chosen it among the rest. And another quick suggestion - take a look at moonmagic for some unique pieces!
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