So, numerous people who get quartz chronometers, they’re constant curiosity, ‘How long does this thing really last?’ As a avid fan of watches and a certified watchmaker, I’ve been examining and repairing these watches for a while now. In this piece, I’m going to talk about five major themes on why quartz chronometers last and share some tips and stories I’ve learned over the years.
2. Battery Life and Replacement
3. Water Resistance and Maintenance
1. Quality of Quartz Crystal
You know, one big deal about how long a quartz watch hangs on is the quality of that crystal. Better crystal materials last longer and keep your watch running smooth.
And I’ve noticed that watches with the really high-quality lenses can outlast the ones with the not-so-nice ones by a lot. For example, a Swiss watch with a super-quality crystal can go strong for a long, long time — think a decade or even more.
2. Battery Life and Replacement
The battery is a super important part of these watches, since it makes that crystal tick. Even though today’s quartz watches are made to last a good while on one battery, you should keep an eye on your battery.
Mostly, watch batteries for quartz watches are good for 1 to 2 years, depending on what brand and model you got. Changing the battery is pretty simple, and I’ve done it a million times in my career. It’s a big deal to use authentic parts batteries, ’cause it helps the watch last longer.
3. Water Resistance and Maintenance
Another thing that influences the longevity of a quartz watch is how well it’s water resistant. Even if some watches say they’re waterproof, you gotta follow the directions to keep it that way.
Maintaining the regular maintenance — like cleaning the case and strap — can make your watch last even longer. I’ve seen timepieces that have lasted for several decades just from being taken care of right.
4. Brand and Model
There are some brands and models that reputedly very durable and can last a long time. Brands like Citizen, Seiko, and Casio, they’re known for making quartz watches that’ll last you years. While considering a quartz watch, it is suggested to investigate the brand and model to ensure it’s one that’ll endure the passage of time.
5. Usage and Storage
The way you handle and keep your watch can significantly affect in how long it remains durable. Keep your watch distant from extreme temperatures, excessive humidity, or magnetic influences.
When you are not wearing it, store it in a cool and dry location where it will not be exposed to direct sunlight. I’ve had customers bring watches to me watches that are more than 20 years old, all due to their careful handling.