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The Art of Timekeeping: Setting an Antique Watch

Imagine holding a piece of history in your hands, a mechanism meticulously crafted in a time before our digital conveniences, a testament to the ingenuity of past watchmakers. Antique watches are not just devices to tell time; they are gems that connect us to a bygone era. Their intricacies and beauty deserve our utmost care and attention to preserve their longevity. In this blog post, we will guide you through the delicate process of setting an antique watch, whilst paying a subtle tribute to the modern solution presented by watch-winders.

1. Gently Assess the Condition

Antique watches, often known as mechanical or pocket watches, require a gentle touch to avoid damaging internal mechanisms. Before setting the time, make sure that your hands are clean, dry, and free of oils, which may introduce dirt or other contaminants into the delicate movement. Carefully open the cover or case by either pressing a button or easing the stem out, depending on the specific design of your antique watch.

Le Remontoir The 12 mistakes
that damage
your watches
Technical guide · 2026
Excerpt · water-resistance table

Case marked 30 m · 3 ATM

Splashes, no swimming

Free guide · 2026 Edition

Caring for your watch without harming it

What a water-resistant case can really withstand, the right cleaning for each strap, the servicing interval for each movement, and the habits that damage a watch without any immediate sign.

  • Water-resistance table: what each marking allows
  • The right cleaning for steel, leather and rubber
  • The signs that a service is due

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