Busting 5 Watch Maintenance Myths So You Can Shop with Confidence

When it comes to luxury timepieces, misinformation can lead even the most devoted collectors astray. From outdated advice to common misconceptions, watch maintenance is often surrounded by myths that can do more harm than good. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or new to the world of fine watches, understanding the differences between myth and truth for proper care is essential to prolonging the beauty and function of your timepieces. At Gerald Peters, our timepiece experts can guide you to the perfect model to elevate your collection and offer trusted support to ensure it remains in pristine condition for years. Join us as we debunk prevalent myths and protect your investment with confidence.

Myth #1: You Rarely Need to Service Your Watch

One of the most persistent myths in watch care is that servicing is only necessary every few years— or worse, only when something goes wrong. In reality, waiting until issues arise can lead to more extensive and costly repairs in the long run. Luxury timepieces are finely tuned instruments that benefit greatly from regular checkups, even if they appear to be functioning normally. Routine maintenance also helps preserve accuracy, longevity, and the integrity of each delicate component. Just as you wouldn’t wait for a car to break down before an oil change, your watch deserves proactive attention from a knowledgeable professional to keep it running flawlessly.

Myth #2: High Water Resistance Prevents All Water Damage

Many assume that a water-resistant label means a watch is impervious to water damage under all conditions, but that’s far from the truth. Water resistance has its limits, and over time, the seals and gaskets that protect the inner workings of your watch can deteriorate, allowing moisture to seep in. Even exposure to steam, high-pressure water, or sudden temperature changes can compromise a watch’s defences. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure these protective elements remain intact and effective. Having your watch’s gaskets checked and replaced as needed helps preserve its water resistance and prevents costly internal damage that can be caused by even minimal amounts of water intrusion.

Myth #3: Sapphire Crystal Cannot Break

Sapphire crystal is prized for its exceptional scratch resistance, but it’s a common misconception that it’s wholly unbreakable. While incredibly strong, second only to diamond, this material is not immune to breakage. A sharp blow or sudden drop can cause it to crack or shatter, especially if struck at the edges where it’s most vulnerable. Unlike plastic or mineral glass, sapphire lacks flexibility, making it more prone to breaking under stress. Treating your watch with care and avoiding harsh conditions is key to preventing damage. Just because the crystal resists scratches doesn’t mean it’s invincible— proper handling and storage are essential to preserving its clarity and structure.

Myth #4: Watch Winders are Required

While watch winders can be convenient for keeping automatic watches running while you’re not wearing them, they are far from essential. Many believe a winder is necessary to preserve the function of a luxury timepiece, but this simply isn’t true. Automatic movements are designed to stop when not being worn, and pausing their winding won’t harm the mechanism. In fact, constantly keeping a watch wound when it's not being worn can cause unnecessary wear on the movement. A winder can be helpful for collectors who rotate watches frequently, but for most, manually winding before wearing is all that’s needed to keep a watch running smoothly.

Myth #5: Don’t Wear Your Watch Unless It’s a Special Occasion

Reserving your luxury watch for only special occasions may seem like a smart way to protect it, but fine timepieces are crafted to be frequently worn and enjoyed. High-end watches are engineered with durability and precision in mind, designed to withstand the rhythms of daily life. Leaving a mechanical watch idle for long periods can be detrimental to its condition, eventually leading to compromised movement and poor performance. Regularly wearing your watch keeps the mechanism active and functioning smoothly. With proper care and routine maintenance, your watch can complement your everyday style while remaining in exceptional condition.

Explore Luxury Watches at Gerald Peters

At Gerald Peters, we invite you to explore a stunning selection of luxury watches curated to complement every aesthetic and occasion. Proudly family-owned and operated for over 30 years, our legacy is built on trust, craftsmanship, and exceptional service. Whether for jewelry or your watch, our in-house repair services ensure your treasured adornments remain in flawless condition. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, from deciding on the next addition to your collection to having your favorite piece serviced. Visit our showroom on Staten Island to experience our offerings firsthand, or contact us with any questions about our selection or services.