Just Ask Leslie: Jewelry Tips

Dear Leslie,
I have been browsing through your site and I noticed you often post on jewelry care. What about watches? Is there anything special I should do to care for my watch?
Ryan in Milwaukee

Ryan, I assume that you are referring to a mechanical watch (the kind you wind). Most watch manufacturers suggest bringing mechanical watches in to be serviced at a professional jeweler or watch-maker every three to five years, in order for all of the parts to be checked and any that are worn out to be replaced.

If you are referring to a quartz watch like this one, however, the maintenance needs are far fewer. (Digital watches, though less elegant, require virtually no service at all). All that most quartz watches require, is that they be cleaned for dirt whenever the batteries are changed.

As a general pointer, it is advisable to keep your watch (like this one seen above) away from extreme heat or cold as most watches perform most accurately when kept at room temperature.

Another thing to be aware of with watches, is that although now most mechanical watches are designed to be shock resistant, it is still preferable to wear a quartz watch when participating in contact sports.