Summer is coming and with it the promise of relaxing moments on the golden sand. But be careful, your precious watch might not survive this seaside getaway! Discover the experts' secrets to protect your timepiece from the unsuspected dangers that await it at the water's edge.
The invisible threat lurking on our beaches
Fine sand, salt water and UV rays are all formidable enemies for our watches. These elements, seemingly harmless, can cause irreversible damage to the most sophisticated mechanisms. Corrosion, scratches and deterioration of the seals are very real risks that can transform your watch jewel into a simple piece of unusable metal.
Luxury watches, with their delicate complications, are particularly vulnerable to these attacks. A grain of sand lodged in the case can be enough to disrupt the functioning of a tourbillon or a perpetual calendar. The cost of repairs can then reach astronomical sums, sometimes higher than the value of the watch itself!
The crucial choice: which watch should you dare to wear on the beach?
To face the challenges of the marine environment, you need to opt for a watch designed specifically for this use. Water resistance is obviously the number one criterion to take into account. A watch worthy of accompanying you on your aquatic adventures must have a water resistance of at least 200 meters.
Among the models popular with informed enthusiasts, we find:
These high-end watches are equipped with special rubber O-rings, ultra-resistant sapphire crystals and screw-down crowns to guarantee perfect water resistance.
Life-saving gestures: prepare your watch before the big dive
Before stepping onto the hot sand, a few precautions are necessary to maximize your timepiece's chances of survival:
On the sand: reflexes to adopt for optimal protection
Once on the beach, remain vigilant to preserve the integrity of your watch:
The post-beach ritual: key steps for a deep cleanse
Back from the beach, a thorough cleaning is necessary to remove all traces of salt, sand or sun cream:
Fatal mistakes to absolutely avoid
Certain practices can be disastrous for your watch. Avoid at all costs:
The professional secret: the annual review
Experts are unanimous: an annual service by a qualified watchmaker is the best guarantee for preserving the longevity of your watch. This operation allows you to:
The cost of such an overhaul may seem high, but it is still much lower than that of a major repair in the event of damage due to negligence.
Armed with this knowledge, you are now ready to fully enjoy your vacation without risking sacrificing your precious watch on the altar of idleness. Remember that vigilance and regular maintenance are the keys to a lasting relationship with your favorite timepiece, even in the face of repeated assaults from the marine elements. So, this summer, dare to show off your most beautiful watch on the beach, but always keep an eye on it!
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