A mechanical watch is hundreds of small parts working together. A few habits keep it running well for years.
1. Wind it regularly
Wind a hand-wound watch at the same time each day and stop when you feel resistance. Give an automatic a few turns of the crown if it has been off the wrist.
2. Do not change the date at night
On many mechanical watches the date change is engaged from about 9 pm to 3 am, and setting the date by hand then can damage the gears. Move the hands to around 6 o'clock first.
3. Keep it away from magnets
Speakers, magnetic bag clasps, tablets and some phones can magnetise the hairspring, and the watch then suddenly runs fast. Demagnetising takes a watchmaker a few minutes.
4. Mind the knocks
Shock protection helps, but a drop on a hard floor or the jolts of golf and tennis can damage the balance staff.
5. Keep the strap clean
If the watch is water resistant, clean a steel bracelet with a soft brush and mild soapy water. Keep leather away from water and perfume.
6. Store it in its box
A box or soft pouch keeps dust, scratches and magnets away.
7. Have it serviced
The oils inside thicken and dry over the years. Service intervals depend on the maker and the movement, usually 5 to 10 years; check your watch's manual.