What if My Mechanical Watch Took Water

Wrong handling of the crown, wear of seals, cracked glass: unfortunately, sometimes water enters a Skmei mechanical watch. The mist inside the glass is one of the first signs. In this case, it is necessary to intervene quickly because the more you let the time pass, the more the damage can be important and irreversible.

Call on a watchmaker

It will first start by looking for the origin of the problem by performing several types of tests, ie find the element responsible for the entry of water into the watch and then fix it.

The watchmaker will have to open the Skmei watch and check the damage caused by the leak. These can be at the level of the dial and/or movement. For gimbals, for example, a simple cleaning and drying operation can sometimes be enough if the owner of the watch has brought it quickly enough to the professional, while others will be forced to change if the room is too damaged. Moisture may especially damage the light coating, anti-reflection glass, rust the various components, etc.

For its part, the movement will also be examined. It may, in particular, be removed and cleaned in a machine provided for this purpose, reassembled on the watch, oiled and then returned to working order. If parts are rusted, they should be cleaned, repaired or even replaced, which will cost more and require more time. The spiral spring or the ball bearings of the rotor are particularly fragile and sensitive to water.

What if my mechanical watch took water?

In general, the case is completely dismantled in the watchmaking workshop. The professional will ensure that all moisture has been removed from the case before reassembling the Skmei watch, using air guns and hot plates.

What you can do on your side

Be careful because improper handling can make the situation worse! It is imperative to avoid placing the watch in contact with a heat source such as a radiator or a hair dryer for example because it accelerates the rusting process and can take off the paint for example.

As you can see, it is best to call a qualified professional directly as soon as possible to minimize damage and facilitate repairs.

Our advice

To avoid water problems in your watch, it is essential to always remember to screw the crown and push buttons after handling.

Also have the waterproofing of your timepiece checked every year, as well as the battery as a good watchmaker will normally have to change the joints at the same time and provide you with a receipt attesting to its good resistance to water.

Finally, if you notice that steam is forming inside your watch, take it immediately to a watchmaker.