Pocket watches have remained popular over the years and are functional and elegant. It’s difficult not to embrace them as pieces of art, whether you admire them for their intricately designed cases or the sophisticated mechanics inside.
A pocket watch is more than just an accessory; it’s a heartfelt gift for a dear one, your favourite timepiece, a priceless heirloom, and an investment. This implies that it must be valued and cared for to ensure its long-term preservation.
Cleaning and maintaining antique pocket watches isn’t complicated or expensive, but it does require a few easy ways to keep them operating and looking their best. This article will provide you with helpful hints for maintaining and preserving your pocket watch to enjoy it for many years to come.
Choosing the Correct Storage Option
Since watches are susceptible to humidity and dirt, storing them in a dry location where the temperature can be controlled is critical for preserving the efficiency of your antique timepieces. The problem with humidity is that it allows moisture to enter your watches, causing dials to corrode and rust.
Sunlight is another critical factor that might harm timepieces. While some pocket watches may appreciate in value as they age, the bulk of timepieces are valued based on their quality.
On black dials on vintage pocket watches, light typically causes fading, resulting in a brown tint. Based on the model, design, and aesthetics, these tinges might be appealing and desirable in vintage timepieces. However, it would be best to double-check this before repeatedly exposing your watch to the sun.
Protecting the Timepieces with Insurance
When purchasing a new pocket watch, it is usually advisable to insure it appropriately, as these compact, portable, and highly precious timepieces are frequently sought after by thieves.
It’s usually a good idea to keep track of serial numbers and pictures of the timepieces you own to report them to the authorities and insurance companies if they’re stolen. Several watchmakers will also welcome these records to reconcile you with your pocket watch if it is returned to them.
Periodically Servicing the Vintage Timepiece
It is recommended that you have your pocket watch serviced by a qualified technician every few years. If you use your timepiece frequently, it is recommended that you have it checked every two to four years to keep it in good working order.
If you store your antique pocket watches carefully and only wear them on special occasions, you may not need to service them as frequently. If your antique timepieces have complicated designs and features, they may require more frequent and extensive maintenance.
Many companies will accept your watch back for in-house service, but you can also hunt for reputed watchmakers in your area who the manufacturer endorses.
Keeping the Bezels and Dials in Good Shape
Since the dial gives a watch its worth, it’s crucial to retain the originals wherever possible. The dials of timepieces from the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s were coated with radium for luminescence. The worth of a watch can be drastically reduced if the radium components, bezels, and crowns are removed.
Parting Note
Pocket watches are exquisite, sophisticated, and an interesting way to pay tribute to the old days while time moves forward. Whether you’re a dedicated collector or have a few varied budget types to complement your outfit, incorrect watch maintenance and preservation can result in deterioration and despair.
As you’ve seen, ensuring your pocket watch is in good working order is a breeze. Now that you’ve read this article, you’re ready to maintain your pocket watch and, why not, those of your near and dear ones (you’ll make them happy).
