| Author | Message | ||
     Vrbeauty New member Username: Vrbeauty Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2009 Rating: N/A |
I ran into trouble trying to post this question earlier. Please excuse me if I inadvertently double-post! I'm a new convert to old, manual-wind watches. I bought a LeCloultre Caprice from an on-line auction because I was intrigued by the style. After using it for a few days, I became intrigued by the idea of getting a "wardrobe" of watches that don't need batteries or frequent, expensive maintenance, and that use movements that have stood the test of time. I also like the prices I'm seeing for vintage women's gold watches! So my question is, how do I care for these older watches? I assume that most of the time, I'll be buying a watch that's been sitting in some drawer for many years. Should I assume that it needs to be cleaned and lubricated even if it works, or can I use the "leave well enough alone" approach? Should the watches that are not in daily use be wound regularly to keep them in good condition, or is it best to set and wind each watch only when I pull it out to use it? Also, what is the best place on this forum for asking more general questions like this? Fingers crossed -- I'll try to post this message! | ||
| Zaf Moderator Username: Zaf Post Number: 3935 Registered: 05-2003 Rating: N/A |
Here is what I do with my watches. If I am wearing a the watch regularly, I have it serviced. The service will last 3-5 years. If I only wear it once in a blue moon, and assuming it already keeps reasonable time, I leave well enough alone and don't worry about it. I would not constantly run such a watch unless it's been serviced, to answer your question. | ||
| Vrbeauty New member Username: Vrbeauty Post Number: 2 Registered: 05-2009 Rating: N/A |
Thanks, Zaf! Your economy of words leaves me curious to read your book! ;) So if I read you correctly, if a watch has not been serviced recently, you only use it occasionally, and don't wind it otherwise, right? Does the same hold true for watches that have been services -- you wind them only as you need them? Thanks again! | ||
| Zaf Moderator Username: Zaf Post Number: 3938 Registered: 05-2003 Rating: N/A |
For watches that have not been serviced, yes, occasional use is fine, only wind them before use then leave them alone. For RECENTLY serviced watches, it actually is benficial to run them occasionally, like at least once a month. It is benficial to run them right after service for several days too. This better distributes the oils. |