Tips

5 Ways to Deal With a Water-Damaged Wristwatch

Water resistance is a prevalent issue with wristwatches, yet many are unsure of how to address it. Join us as we explore 5 effective ways to handle a water-damaged wristwatch and ensure your timepiece stays in pristine condition.

Administrator

31 August, 2024

Over the years, there have been numerous traditional methods passed down to deal with a wet wristwatch. To learn more about what to do when your wristwatch gets wet, follow the tips below!

1Drying with Paper Towels

Drying with paper towels

When your watch gets wet, use a soft cloth or paper towel to gently pat it dry, being careful not to scratch the back. Next, use a screwdriver to carefully open the back casing of the watch, being mindful not to touch the gears and other delicate components.

After opening the back, turn the watch face down on a flat surface lined with a soft cloth to prevent scratching and let it air dry for 24 hours. This method is only recommended for those who are familiar with watch repair and have experience opening watches. If you’re unsure, it’s best to take it to a professional.

2Using Lamp Heat to Dry

Using lamp heat to dry

Start by wrapping your watch in a layer of tissue paper or a dry cloth. Then, place it about 5-10 cm below a 40W desk lamp (an incandescent bulb is best). Turn on the lamp for about half an hour. The heat from the lamp will help draw out moisture, and the paper will absorb it, leaving your watch good as new.

3Wearing the Watch Upside Down

Wearing the watch upside down

If your watch gets wet, a quick fix is to turn the face of the watch (the side with the display) towards your wrist, so the back faces outward. Wear it like this for about 2 hours, and any moisture will evaporate.

Alternatively, you can turn the face inward toward your wrist and the back casing outward, wearing it upside down on your wrist for about 2 hours until the moisture evaporates.

4Using Silica Gel to Absorb Moisture

Using silica gel to absorb moisture

If your watch gets wet, place it in a small plastic container with a layer of silica gel at the bottom. Then, cover the watch with more silica gel and seal the container. Leave it for about 24 hours, and the silica gel will absorb the moisture from your watch.

5Taking it to a Professional

Taking it to a professional

If none of the above methods work, or you’re unsure about attempting them, it’s best to take your watch to a reputable watch repair shop or authorized service center. They will have the expertise and tools to properly open your watch, deal with any water that has gotten inside, and ensure that your timepiece is in good working order. Don’t delay, as prolonged exposure to water can damage the intricate mechanisms of your watch.

We hope you found these tips helpful! Give them a try and take care of your wet wristwatch effectively.

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Frequently asked questions

First, you need to act quickly as water damage can be devastating for a wristwatch. Remove the watch from the water source immediately and dry it with a soft cloth. Then, you should open the watch case and use a hairdryer on a low setting to dry the interior. It is important to be gentle and careful during this process to avoid further damage. Once dried, apply a light layer of lubricating oil to the gears and put the watch back together.

Using a hairdryer on a low setting is a safe and effective method to dry your watch. Ensure you hold the dryer at a safe distance and move it continuously to avoid concentrating the heat in one area, which could cause further damage. You can also try placing the watch in a container with uncooked rice, which will help absorb moisture. Leave it for 24-48 hours, and then check if the watch is functioning properly.

It is important to be gentle and careful throughout the process. Do not use excessive force when opening the watch case, and be cautious when handling the internal components. Ensure the watch is completely dried before attempting to use it again. If you are unsure about any part of the process, it is best to consult a professional watch repair service to avoid causing further damage.

To prevent water damage, ensure your watch has a secure seal. Regularly check the gaskets and have them replaced if necessary. Additionally, be mindful of the water resistance rating of your watch and avoid submerging it beyond its specified depth limit. After any contact with water, dry your watch thoroughly, especially if it is not designed to be waterproof.

Signs of water damage include condensation or moisture inside the watch face, corrosion on the internal components, and a misted-up interior. If you notice any of these issues, act quickly and follow the steps outlined above to mitigate the damage. If the watch is already severely damaged, you may need to seek professional repair services.