For avid watch collectors, a pilot watch is an essential piece in any collection. While your pilot watch is designed to withstand rugged use, they also need regular maintenance and care to ensure that it will continue to operate accurately and reliably – whether you wear it daily or just for your special occasions.
Knowing how to properly care for and maintain your pilot watch will not only keep it looking fresh but also prolong its lifespan. – And don’t forget, this is necessary for general hygiene as well because your watch comes into contact with your skin, lotions, perfumes, and sweat.
So, we’re providing a comprehensive guide on how you can properly take care of your pilot watch (or any type of wristwatch) so that it will last for years to come!
How Often Should You Do It?
It varies, depending on your usage of it.
If you wear your pilot watch every day, then a thorough cleaning session is needed once a month. It should keep it free of dirt and grime.
If you’re more of an occasional wearer, then a half-yearly cleaning is recommended.
Regardless of how often you wear your pilot watch, you don’t need to take it to an expert every time to clean it. In fact, by following our comprehensive guide, you can keep your watch looking brand new in no time.
Cleaning & Maintenance
The first step in taking care of your pilot watch is to perform regular cleaning and maintenance.
This includes using a soft cloth or water-resistant brush to remove dirt and debris from the case, strap, and crystal of the watch. If needed, you can use a jewelry cleaner to remove tough stains or grime. It is important not to use harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia when cleaning your watch, as these can cause damage to the metal components of the watch.
Regular cleaning and upkeep sessions will ensure that your timepiece remains accurate, reliable, and functional for decades to come. Here are 5 steps to help you properly clean your pilot watch:
1. Start by removing the caseback of the watch from its body. This will give you access to the movement inside and allow you to inspect it more closely. Be sure to take extra care when handling the caseback as it is fragile
2. Use a soft cloth or brush to gently clean the face and case of the watch, making sure not to scrub too hard. Avoid using any chemicals or solvents on your timepiece as these could potentially damage its delicate parts
3. Clean the strap or bracelet with warm soapy water, being careful not to submerge it in water for too long as this could cause damage to its leather or metal components. Rinse off any soap with clean water afterward and then dry with a soft cloth before replacing it on the watch body
4. Use a non-abrasive cloth dampened with lubricating oil such as WD-40 or 3-in-1 oil to lubricate the moving parts of the watch such as its hands, gears, and springs. Take extra care when applying oil near any rubber seals as this could cause them to deteriorate over time if left unchecked
5. Once all parts have been cleaned and lubricated, reassemble the watch following any instructions provided by its manufacturer’s manual. Make sure all components are properly tightened before wearing it again as loose parts can lead to accuracy issues later on down the line
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your pilot watch remains in top condition for many years without needing professional servicing or repair work done on it too often!
Storing It Safely
It is important to store your pilot watch in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid storing it near heat sources such as radiators or fireplaces, as this could cause damage to both the case and movement of the watch over time. Also, avoid storing your watch in direct sunlight for extended periods as this could cause discoloration or fading of certain components due to UV exposure. Investing in a quality storage box will ensure that all parts remain safe when not worn or used.
Battery Replacement
The battery in most pilot watches lasts about 2 years before needing replacement. You must have your battery replaced by a professional if possible; attempting DIY battery replacement could result in damage or injury if done incorrectly. Once you have had your battery replaced, make sure that you keep track of when it needs replacing again so that you can get it taken care of before any issues arise due to an old battery.
Regular Maintenance
Inspecting your watch movement routinely is essential to ensure that it continues running properly over time. This means checking all of its components—from the gears and springs inside the movement to the winding stem, crown, and balance wheel—for signs of wear and tear.
If any parts are damaged or worn out, take your watch to a professional repair shop—never try to repair it yourself! Regular maintenance will help extend the life of your watch considerably so it can be enjoyed for many years without issue
Cleaning Kit We Recommend
You’ll need to have certain equipment to clean your watch. That way, you’ll be able to clean your pilot watch without damaging its material and save a whole lot of time.
Here are some of the essential items that you must have at home before starting the watch cleaning session:
- Strap remover tool
- Cleaning brushes
- Microfibre cloth
- Polishing cloth
- Cleaning fluid
The microfibre cloth is used to apply the cleaning solution on it and dry the watch. The polishing cloth is for buffing. Make sure that each of these products is safe and gentle for your pilot watch.
Conclusion
Keeping up with regular maintenance and proper storage is essential for making sure that your pilot watch continues performing optimally for many years down the line.
By following these tips and having your battery replaced regularly by a professional, you will be able to do just that! Whether you are an aviation enthusiast or simply appreciate fine watches, caring for your timepiece correctly will ensure its longevity so that it continues working well into the future.
