Watch Repair: Did Your Watch Sustain Water Damage? | Denver, CO

It’s every watch owner’s nightmare – you take your timepiece off for a swim, or perhaps you get caught in the rain, and when you go to put it back on, you realize that the water has caused irreversible damage. So, what do you do now?

The good news is that, in most cases, water damage is easy to repair. However, the sooner you address the issue, the better. Contact a watch repair expert in Denver, CO, for immediate assistance. They will likely be able to fix the problem quickly and easily.

If you have a waterproof watch, remember that even these watches are not impervious to water damage.

What Can Happen Due to Water Damage to Your Watch?

If water seeps into the watch movement, it can cause the gears to rust or corrode. If the water is not cleaned up quickly, this can lead to permanent damage and even a total breakdown of the watch movement.

In addition, water can also cause the seals on a watch to break down, leading to moisture infiltration and eventual corrosion. This can damage the dial, hands, and case of the watch.

Last but not least, water can damage the dial and hands, causing discoloration, bubbling, or peeling.

Water damage is something that you must avoid at all costs. But if your watch does sustain water damage, don’t despair – there is hope for repair.

How to Repair Water Damage on a Watch

If you catch the water damage early, before it has had a chance to do too much damage, it can often be repaired relatively easily by watch repair experts in Denver, CO.

Here are a few steps they will take to repair your beloved timepiece:

1. Remove the Case Back

The first step is to remove the case back of the watch to access the movement. This is done with a case knife, a fragile and sharp tool. The watch repair expert will then use a loupe, a magnifying glass, to inspect the movement for water damage. This process is vital to determine the extent of the damage and what needs to be done to repair it.

2. Clean the Movement

After inspecting the movement, the repair expert will clean it with a unique solution to remove any water or debris. This solution is called naphtha, and it is essential to use the proper amount to avoid damaging the movement.

Cleaning is a delicate process, as the movement is very sensitive. The professionals use specialized solvents and brushes to prevent damaging any other parts.

3. Oil the Movement

If your watch is self-winding, you’ll need to oil the movement. This can be done by opening up the case and adding just a few drops of lubricant to the gears. Next, run the watch for a few hours to evenly distribute the oil.

Doing this will help keep your watch running smoothly. This is an intricate process better handled by a repair professional.

4. Inspect the Watch Band

If your watch has a leather band, it is essential to inspect it for water damage. Water can cause the leather to warp and crack, so take care of it as soon as possible. The best way to do this is to remove the band and let it air dry.

Once it’s dry, the watch repair experts will apply a leather conditioner to keep it looking good. If your band is metal, you’ll need to clean it with mild soap and water.

5. Clean the Case

If your watch has any seal on the case, clean it with a mild detergent and water. This will help remove any salt or other residue that could damage the watch. The watch repair professionals will then apply a new coat of sealant to keep your watch protected.

6. Replace the Battery

If your watch has a battery, get it replaced as soon as possible. Water can damage the battery, which will cause it to leak and potentially damage the watch. The best way to avoid this is to take your watch to a professional and have the battery replaced.

7. Test the Watch

Once all of the above steps have been completed, the watch repair experts will test the watch to ensure that it is running properly. This includes making sure that the hands are moving correctly and that the watch keeps time accurately. They will then package it up and send it back to you if everything looks good.

It’s important to remember that water damage is not always repairable. In some cases, the watch may be too damaged and need replacement. If this is the case, the watch repair experts will let you know and recommend a replacement.

How to Prevent Water Damage to Your Watch

The best way to protect your watch from water damage is to keep it away from moisture. If you are going to be in a situation where your watch is likely to get wet – such as swimming or hiking in the rain – take it off and store it in a safe place.

Another way to protect your watch is to have it serviced regularly. This includes having the battery replaced and the movement cleaned and oiled. By keeping your watch in good condition, you can help avoid any water damage.

If you experience water damage to your watch, take it to a professional as soon as possible. They will be able to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action for repairing it.

Contact Matheu’s Fine Watches & Jewelry for all Your Luxury Watch Repair Needs!

Matheu’s Fine Watches & Jewelry is a full-service luxury watch repair shop in Denver, CO. We offer a wide range of services, from battery replacement to movement cleaning and oiling. If your watch has been damaged by water, we can help you restore it to its original condition. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a free consultation.

Photo by Rudenkois at Shutterstock
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