An automatic mechanical watch is more than just a timekeeping device — it is a precision instrument composed of 200+ delicate components working in perfect harmony. With proper care and maintenance, your GATTI automatic watch can provide decades of reliable service and even become a cherished heirloom passed down through generations.
Daily Wear Best Practices
The way you wear and handle your watch on a daily basis has a significant impact on its long-term health:
- Wear it regularly: Automatic watches are designed to be worn. The natural motion of your wrist winds the mainspring, keeping the movement running. If you don’t wear your watch daily, consider using a watch winder to keep it running when not in use.
- Avoid magnetic fields: Strong magnetic fields from speakers, smartphones, and magnetic closures can affect the accuracy of your watch. Keep your watch at least 10cm away from magnetic sources.
- Handle with care: While GATTI watches are built to be durable, avoid dropping your watch or subjecting it to sudden impacts. Even a small shock can disrupt the delicate balance of the movement.
- Remove before certain activities: Take off your watch before swimming in hot tubs, using saunas, or engaging in contact sports. Extreme temperature changes and impacts can damage the movement and seals.
Cleaning Your Watch
Regular cleaning keeps your watch looking its best and prevents buildup of dirt and sweat that can damage the case and strap over time:
- For the case and bracelet: Wipe gently with a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth. For more thorough cleaning, use a soft-bristled toothbrush with mild soap and warm water, then rinse and dry immediately. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- For leather straps: Wipe with a dry cloth. Avoid getting leather straps wet, as water can cause the leather to crack and deteriorate. Use a leather conditioner occasionally to keep the strap supple.
- For rubber straps: Rubber straps can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry completely before wearing.
- For the crystal: Wipe gently with a microfiber cloth. Avoid pressing hard, as even scratch-resistant sapphire or mineral glass can be scratched by harder materials.
Water Resistance Care
Water resistance is not a permanent characteristic — it can degrade over time due to aging gaskets and seals. Follow these guidelines:
- Check the rating: Know your watch’s water resistance rating. 3ATM (30m) is suitable for splashes and rain, while 5ATM (50m) can handle swimming. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Avoid hot water: Hot water can cause the gaskets to expand and contract, compromising water resistance. Avoid wearing your watch in hot showers, baths, or saunas.
- Have it tested: Have your watch’s water resistance tested annually by a professional, especially if you regularly expose it to water.
- Rinse after saltwater: If your watch comes into contact with saltwater, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water and dry immediately to prevent corrosion.
Winding and Setting
Proper winding and setting techniques help maintain the health of your movement:
- Manual winding: If your watch has stopped, manually wind it by turning the crown clockwise 20-30 times until you feel resistance. Don’t overwind — stop when you feel firm resistance.
- Setting the time: Pull the crown out to the time-setting position and turn clockwise to set the correct time. Avoid setting the date between 9PM and 3AM, as the date-changing mechanism is engaged during this period and forcing it can damage the movement.
- Screw-down crowns: If your watch has a screw-down crown, unscrew it counterclockwise before pulling it out to set the time. After setting, push the crown back in and screw it down clockwise to maintain water resistance.
Storage
How you store your watch when not in use matters:
- Use a watch box: Store your watch in a padded watch box or case to protect it from dust, scratches, and impacts.
- Consider a watch winder: If you own multiple automatic watches and rotate them regularly, a watch winder keeps them running and properly lubricated when not being worn.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Don’t store your watch in direct sunlight, near heaters, or in extremely cold environments. Room temperature is ideal.
- Keep away from magnets: Store your watch away from speakers, smartphones, and other magnetic devices.
Servicing
Like any precision instrument, your automatic watch requires periodic professional servicing to maintain optimal performance:
- Service interval: Have your watch serviced by a professional watchmaker every 3-5 years, depending on usage and conditions.
- What’s included: A full service typically includes complete disassembly of the movement, cleaning of all components, replacement of worn parts and gaskets, lubrication, reassembly, regulation, and water resistance testing.
- Signs you need service: If your watch is running significantly fast or slow (more than 30 seconds per day), has stopped working, or has visible condensation under the crystal, it’s time for a service.
By following these care guidelines, your GATTI automatic watch will continue to provide reliable timekeeping and timeless style for many years to come. Remember — a well-cared-for mechanical watch is not just an accessory, it’s an investment that can last a lifetime.
