Let's be real—buying a watch is an investment. Whether it's a stylish everyday piece or a luxury model, we want it to keep ticking for years.

But here's the thing: without regular care, even the best watch can wear down or break. The good news? With just a few simple habits, we can keep our watch in great shape and avoid costly repairs.

Keep It Clean, Always

Watches collect dust, sweat, and oil from our skin—especially if we wear them daily. A quick weekly wipe-down makes a big difference. We can use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the case and strap. For metal or water-resistant watches, a slightly damp cloth works fine. Just remember:

• Never soak the watch (unless it's fully waterproof).

• Avoid using soap, strong cleaners.

• Don't forget the area between the case and the strap—it traps the most grime.

Taking just two minutes to clean it regularly can prevent long-term damage.

Mind the Water

Even if our watch is labeled as water-resistant, it doesn't mean it can handle everything. Water can sneak in through the crown (the little crown we use to set the time) or damage the seals over time.

Here's what we should do:

• Remove the watch before swimming, showering, or washing hands—unless it's made for water activities.

• If it accidentally gets wet, dry it immediately with a soft cloth.

• Have the water-resistance checked every year if we wear it in wet conditions often.

Water might be invisible, but it's a silent watch killer if we're not careful.

Protect It from Extreme Conditions

Heat, cold, and magnetic fields can seriously mess with how a watch works. We should avoid leaving it in a hot car, near heaters, or under direct sunlight for long periods. Sudden temperature changes can make the materials expand or contract—especially leather straps or metal bracelets.

Also, try to keep our watches away from electronics like phones, speakers, or magnets. These can interfere with the watch's accuracy.

Wind and Wear It Right

If we're using a mechanical watch, it needs to be wound regularly to keep running smoothly. Here's a quick tip:

• For manual watches: Wind it once a day at the same time. Turn the crown gently until we feel resistance.

• For automatic watches: Wearing them daily usually keeps them powered. If we haven't worn it in a while, give it a few turns before use.

And remember, don't wind or set the time while wearing the watch—it can strain the movement.

Store It Properly

When we're not wearing our watch, we shouldn't just toss it on the table. It can get scratched, knocked, or collect dust. A better idea is to:

• Use a watch box or soft pouch.

• Keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture.

• For automatic watches, consider using a watch winder to keep it running when not in use.

A little storage care keeps the watch looking sharp and ticking right.

Take It for Regular Checkups

Like cars, watches need professional servicing. Even if everything seems fine, parts inside wear out over time. For most watches, a check-up every 3 to 5 years is ideal.

A technician will:

• Clean the internal movement.

• Lubricate moving parts.

• Replace worn-out seals or gaskets.

• Check accuracy and water resistance.

It might seem like a chore, but it can extend the life of our watch by decades.

Pay Attention to the Strap

Straps often wear out before the watch itself. We should check them for cracks, stiffness, or discoloration. Here's how to care for different types:

• Leather straps: Avoid water and sweat. Let them air out after use.

• Metal bracelets: Clean them with a soft brush and warm water (if water-safe).

• Rubber or nylon: Rinse gently with water after heavy use, especially in hot or salty environments.

And when the strap is past its best, don't hesitate to replace it—it gives the whole watch a fresh new look.

Let's Keep It Ticking

Taking care of a watch isn't complicated—it's just about building a few easy habits. Clean it, store it properly, and get it checked once in a while. That's all it takes.

So Lykkers, how often do you clean your watch? Have you ever had to fix one because of water or dust? Let us know your go-to care tips, or share a story about your longest-lasting timepiece!