Getting a Rolex watch is a monumental achievement for most. This is also why some people get cold feet when thinking about buying their first Rolex. A common question that pops up is whether a watch will be worth the money. After all, you would not want to invest the result of your hard work for something that will not last a long time, right?
The good news is that Rolex prides itself on being the “watch for a lifetime.” But just like everything else, your Rolex requires care and attention for it to live up to its fullest potential and lifespan. If cared for properly, this brand can be the first and last watch you will never need.
Here are five things that you should remember when maintaining and taking care of your beloved Rolex timepiece.
1. Wear your watch often
Rolex wristwatches are extremely popular because they rely on the user to function. Its precision mechanisms use the movements of your wrist to convert energy that will power the watch. This means that the more you use your Rolex, the more confident you can be that its time will remain accurate.
If you do not go outdoors frequently and would not want to wear your watch around the house, gently shaking or moving the watch is often enough to keep its “life” going. Still, you can always manually wind your watch if it has been left unused for more than three to four days.
When winding, unlatch the crown and turn it clockwise 25 times. Do this on a flat surface. It is not recommended to unscrew the crown or wind your watch while wearing it on your wrist.
2. Wash your watch once a week
Rolex timepieces are perfect for everyday use. But this also means that getting dirt and grime on your watch is not avoidable. To keep your Rolex from looking dull, you can wash it weekly. Use warm water as you lather mild soap onto the watch. If your watch bracelet is leather, do not wet the strap. Instead, separate it from the case, so you wash the case with ease. Pat it with a microfiber cloth to dry.
During this process, it is important to double-check whether the crown is tightly screwed. If water somehow gets inside of your watch, immediately put it inside a bag of rice or wear it on your dry wrist. Better yet, take your Rolex to a watchmaker to avoid further damages.
Pro tip: if you wear your waterproof Rolex to the beach, shower with it afterward to make sure that no sand or saltwater particles are left. These particles are coarse enough to cause damage to your watch in the long term.
3. Store your watch properly
When you are not using your watch, it is important to make sure that it is stored safely. Avoid placing it on tabletops or surfaces where it can easily get knocked over, especially if you have a toddler in the house. Instead, allot a drawer space or jewelry box where you can securely keep your watch. To add a layer of protection from shock, you can also line it with a soft cloth.
Ideally, you should keep your watch in a place where you can easily access it. Placing it in a storage space that you frequently use—like a bedside table or office desk—is better because it will help you remember to shake it even when you are not wearing it regularly on your wrist.
4. Make sure your watch is the perfect fit
Having a Rolex that does not fit well can be a surefire recipe for disaster. Especially if you are typically out and about most of the time, a loose Rolex can mean that it is easier for it to snag on things as you go about your day. While Rolex timepieces are sturdy, a particularly bad angle can turn your perfectly operating Rolex into a malfunctioning wristwatch.
As we all know, these watches are famous for catering to even the sportiest people. It can also be a huge problem if you wear an ill-fitted Rolex while playing tennis, basketball, or the like. Not only will it mess up your game, but it can also cause discomfort and pain in your hands.
5. Be mindful whenever you wear your watch
These watches are built to last. Still, this does not make this luxury timepiece immune to scratches, dents, and glass cracks. While some Rolex owners appreciate signs of use that accumulate over the years—as these are a testament to its durability and history—letting your Rolex repeatedly suffer these “minor” damages can cut its lifespan or affect its performance in the long run.
Whenever you use your watch, keep in mind its limitations. If you think that an outdoor activity or sport might be too rough for your watch, consider taking it off for a few hours to preserve its pristine condition.
Bonus: Find high-quality Rolex servicing
A responsible car owner knows how important it is to maintain the upkeep of their vehicle. Usually, this means taking their car for repairs every twelve to fourteen months. For houses, it is every three to five years. Most people do not have a problem with spending a few hundred dollars to keep their autos and homes in tip-top shape because these are big investments. The same goes for Rolex watches.
The good news is that if you can follow the steps mentioned above, you will only need to take your Rolex for servicing every two to four years. However, it is important that you take your watch to a trusted watchmaker. This ensures that you will get the best quality work for your money. Better yet, consider going to an official Rolex retailer for servicing.
Invest in your time; invest in your Rolex
Owning a Rolex is more than just having a handy piece that tells you the time. For many dedicated owners, a Rolex carries with it memories from every stage of your life. If you master the art of caring for your Rolex wristwatch, you can rely on this timeless item to accompany you through your life’s journeys and be a reminder of the things you have achieved and those you are yet to accomplish.