To wind a pocket watch with and without securing it with a chain, you have two options: stem-winding and key-winding.
Stem-winding requires turning the crown in a clockwise direction. Key-winding uses a key to ratchet the product backwards and facilitates the process of winding.
We have a related article for you, you can read How Often Do You Wind A Pocket Watch?
To wind your pocket watch with the latter method, hold it in your dominant hand. Secure it with your thumb.
How To Wind A Pocket Watch With And Without A Key: Step By Step
Keeping A Pocket Watch In Working Condition
To keep a pocket watch in working condition, you must first understand how the timepiece works. The watch mechanism is made of a series of parts that work together. If you want to keep the timepiece working properly, you should always clean it regularly.
In addition, you should never expose your pocket watch to extreme heat or cold, as these can damage the watch’s components. Extreme heat can cause the lubricant to congeal, causing friction on the covers and pivots.
By following proper pocket watch care, you can extend the life of your watch and enjoy it for many years to come.
Most pocket watches are mechanical devices, and they require daily winding. However, make sure not to wind it too much, as this can damage its internal mechanisms.
Similarly, don’t use water to clean it, as this can damage its surface. Instead, use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the surface. Water can damage the case and ring mechanism of a pocket watch, so never use water.
When you’re not wearing it, make sure you keep your pocket watch in a secure place, such as your vest or pants pocket.
You can also buy a pocket watch pouch or a stand to display your watch while it’s not in use. If you’re not sure how to protect your pocket watch, you can try a cigar cutter, which can serve as an anchor for the watch.
Choosing A Key Wind Watch
A key wind pocket watch is a wonderful alternative to a wristwatch. A key wind pocket watch is typically made of enamel, metal, or gold. They can date back to the nineteenth century and possibly the twentieth century.
Some examples of key wind pocket watches include those produced by Breguet, Patek Philippe, and Tiffany & Co., among many others. If you’re looking to purchase a key wind pocket watch, there are many ways to do so.
One way to tell if a key wind pocket watch is working is to gently shake the watch. Many modern “reproduction” keys do not fit perfectly. You should have at least one of each size, and be sure to get a set of different sizes, too.
Purchasing a complete set will allow you to select the one that fits your watch. There is a wide variety of keys for various pocket watches, so you can choose the right one for your pocket watch.
Mechanical watches are easier to maintain than hand wind pocket watches. However, they require more precision and knowledge to operate.
Hand wind watches are popular with collectors because they are authentic representations of tradition and add a sensational touch to your personality.
The following tips will help you choose the perfect key wind pocket watch. When choosing a pocket watch, consider the type of movement and style you prefer. There are many styles of mechanical pocket watches available.
Keeping A Pocket Watch Secure With A Chain
It’s important to store your pocket watch properly. While it is meant to be kept in a pocket, it’s also expected to be kept there.
Dust and lint are bad for the watch’s performance, so keep it out of your pocket whenever possible. If it’s exposed to extreme temperatures, the lubricant can congeal, damaging its parts and making it less responsive.
Pocket watches are delicate objects. You don’t want to accidentally knock it off your pocket when you’re walking down the street. For this reason, jewelry manufacturers have created chains to keep these timepieces safe.
There are many different types of antique pocket watch chains available, from the functional to the decorative. No matter what type of pocket watch you have, you can find a chain that fits your style.
The end of a pocket watch chain is usually a hook, claw, or spring-loaded catch. Some of these chains even feature a decorative fob to match your vest.
Leather straps are a better choice for a pocket watch because they are sturdy and can be attached to a belt loop. Keeping a pocket watch secure with a chain is the perfect way to showcase your pocket watch.
While you might not be inclined to wear your pocket watch as a piece of jewelry, you’ll be glad you did. Not only will the chain protect your pocket watch, but it’ll also prevent it from falling out of your pocket, breaking, or even getting lost.
You’ll never know when it will be a style essential! Don’t forget to secure it with a chain if you’re going to be out all day.
Cleaning The Outside Of A Pocket Watch
Most pocket watches are mechanical devices that require winding daily to keep them working. Occasionally, overwinding your pocket watch can cause damage to the internal mechanisms. To clean the exterior of your pocket watch without leaving any scratches, use a microfiber cloth.
This type of cloth is incredibly soft, and will effectively clean the outside of your pocket watch without leaving any marks. You should also avoid using water on the surface of your pocket watch, as this can cause damage to its finish.
Before cleaning the exterior of your pocket watch with a key, you should remove the battery and other components. The battery and the movement are accessible via a small lip, which can be accessed with a key.
Once these parts are removed, you can clean the inside of the casing. Before you do so, make sure you have a dish or bowl to place the parts in.
If you’re serious about repairing your pocket watch, you can purchase a parts cleaner and a magnifying glass. You’ll also need some special oil and an oiler, which are two thin wires dipped in oil that you’ll need to apply on different parts of the watch.
These tools may be expensive, but they’re worth it. Unless you’re sure you can restore your pocket watch by yourself, you might be better off hiring a professional.
Although modern watches promise to be indestructible, you should still take good care of your pocket watch. The elements, including rain, dust, and other particles, can make your pocket watch run slower than usual and even cause its internal mechanisms to malfunction.
As with your mobile phone, your pocket watch needs proper care in order to keep working. If you follow these tips, you can increase the longevity of your pocket watch.
Keeping A Pocket Watch In Extreme Temperatures
If you own a vintage pocket watch, it’s important to learn how to keep it safe and sound from the effects of extreme temperatures. Though modern watches may seem to be indestructible, extreme heat or cold can damage the internal mechanisms of your pocket watch.
As a result, your timepiece can lose its luster and begin to age faster. To ensure the longevity of your pocket watch, it’s important to treat it as you would a mobile phone.
As a mechanical device, your pocket watch will require regular winding to keep it working properly. Remember not to over-wind your pocket watch as you could ruin the internal mechanisms. For cleaning, use microfiber cloths.
Microfiber cloths are soft and will clean the surfaces without leaving any marks. Do not use water as it may damage the pocket watch’s surfaces. Make sure that the surfaces are completely dry before attempting to wind your pocket watch.
Conclusion:
While cleaning is important, you must also remember to store your pocket watch properly in order to protect it from the effects of extreme temperatures.
To prevent your pocket watch from losing its value, store it in its box in a dry and non-humid environment. Never store it near a hot radiator or open window.
If you must store it outdoors, purchase a stand or pouch for it. When you’re at home, use a watch stand or a pocket watch pouch to store it.
Also, make sure to check out my post on How To Open Waltham Pocket Watch? Easy Tips
