How to handle old watches
The charm of antique watches
Antique Clocks
These machines were made decades or even more than 100 years ago, so they are extremely delicate.
Compared to modern watches, they are inevitably inferior in terms of functionality such as water resistance, vibration resistance, anti-magnetic properties, and accuracy.
Over the years, some watches may develop symptoms such as "poor initial movement," "large variation in posture," or "stiff crown," but we would like you to be generous and appreciate these as the watch's "quirks" rather than as defects.
All antique watches sold in our shop, except for those marked as junk or in need of repair, will work properly if wound up.
However, since there are many cases where each product has some kind of "quirk," we will state any distinctive features in the product description.
Accuracy and power reserve (operating time from a full mainspring) vary depending on the watch, so the inspection values are listed in the product description.
However, the accuracy of antique watches is affected by factors such as how the mainspring is wound, the temperature/humidity, the position of the watch (how it is placed), and the presence or absence of objects that emit magnetism or electromagnetic waves around it (PCs, smartphones, earphones, speakers, etc.), so this accuracy cannot always be achieved.
Watch warranty
We guarantee the functionality of all watches purchased from our store for one month from the date of delivery.
If a watch sold as in working condition stops working as described within the warranty period, we will repair it free of charge.
Please click here for more details.
overhaul
If a mechanical watch does not undergo an overhaul, which involves disassembly, cleaning, and oiling, about once every three years, it will gradually deteriorate and become more prone to breaking.
Unless otherwise specified, watches sold by our store are not overhauled at the time of purchase.
We use this sales method because some customers like to overhaul their watches themselves, are not concerned with precision, and purchase them simply as a decorative item .
If you wish, we can overhaul your watch before shipping it to you. In that case, the cost of the overhaul will be quoted separately.
It depends on the structure of the watch, the manufacturer, and the storage condition, but it is generally around 20,000 to 30,000 yen.
Basic handling instructions
Our blog explains how to care for antique pocket watches.
[Blog article] Types of pocket watches and names of their parts
[Blog article] How to wind a pocket watch
[Blog article] Setting the time on a pocket watch
Also, when wearing a pocket watch, it is common to attach a chain called an Albert chain to prevent it from falling out of your pocket, etc.
The Albert Chain is explained here.
[Blog article] Albert Chain
Tips to make it last longer
Regarding the front cover, please be careful not to open it and touch the needles or other parts.
Do not place near devices that emit magnetic or electromagnetic waves, such as smartphones, computers, earphones, or speakers.
Be careful not to drop it (it is sensitive to shocks).
When you go out, we recommend using an Albert chain or string to prevent the watch from falling out of your pocket, etc.
Avoid using it on rainy days or storing it in a humid place.
When winding the mainspring, wind it until it stops (full mainspring).
If you do not know who to request an overhaul, please contact us.
Post-purchase maintenance
Even if a mechanical watch is not an antique, it is advisable to have it overhauled about once every three years if it is to be used as a practical item.
In the case of antique watches, it is often the case that the manufacturer does not accept repairs or the manufacturer itself no longer exists, making it difficult to ask the manufacturer to repair or overhaul the watch .
The number of watchmakers who can repair and overhaul antique watches is decreasing due to the aging population.
If the watch you purchased from our store breaks or starts to malfunction and you would like to have it overhauled, please contact us.
If you send us your watch, we will assist you by handing it over to a watchmaker who can repair it and getting you an estimate for the repair.
We can also introduce you to a watch shop near your home that can repair antique watches (depending on your area).
Notes
About originality
Initial response
In that case, try gently shaking the watch side to side or moving it 12 hours (one revolution) by adjusting the time.
Please understand the above before enjoying the world of antique watches.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us using the button below.