Automatic mechanical watches are powered by a mechanism that utilizes the unwinding of the mainspring and small metal components working together to ensure precision. However, the delicate metal parts of a mechanical watch are susceptible to environmental factors like temperature, gravity, and shock, which can impact accuracy. Additionally, daily arm movements and winding state may influence the watch’s gain or loss.
Temperature:
To maintain accuracy, avoid exposing the watch to extreme temperatures (below 5ºC or above 35ºC). Temperature changes can cause the metal parts to expand or contract, leading to time discrepancies. High temperatures may result in time loss, while low temperatures can lead to time gain.
Magnetism:
To prevent interference, keep the watch away from magnetic fields. Avoid placing the watch near magnetic objects like cell phones, TVs, computer speakers, magnetic necklaces, purse clasps, electrical razors, hairdryers, and refrigerator magnetic elements. Even sleeping with the watch near your phone or passing security gantries can have an impact.
Shock:
For sports involving strong impacts, it’s advisable to remove the watch. Direct impact to the wrists can affect the delicate metal elements inside the watch, leading to accuracy changes. Dropping the watch can also cause damage.
Position:
The accuracy of mechanical watches can vary slightly based on their positions. Experiment with different positions for seven to eight hours when the watch is not in use and check the loss or gain in each position. Storing the watch in a position that minimizes loss or gain during rest can counteract the changes that occur when the watch is worn.
Winding:
For improved accuracy, it’s recommended to wind up the mainspring at a fixed time daily, even for self-winding watches. Be cautious not to overwind the watch.
Settle-in Period:
New or infrequently worn automatic watches may experience time discrepancies initially. They usually settle down to more reasonable accuracy after a couple of months. If the watch gains or loses a few seconds per day, try the following:
- Lay the watch flat with the dial facing up (to gain a few seconds if it is slow).
- Lay the watch flat with the winding button downwards (to lose a few seconds if it is fast).
- Lay the watch vertically with the winding button facing up (to lose more seconds if it is too fast).
By following these guidelines and taking proper care of your Seiko SRPD14K1 Asia Limited Edition, you can ensure its accuracy and longevity, allowing you to enjoy this exclusive timepiece to the fullest.