Care instructions
Vintage Chronos Germany
Care Instructions for Your Vintage Luxury Watch
A vintage luxury watch represents traditional watchmaking craftsmanship, technical precision, and historical substance. To ensure your timepiece continues to function reliably for many years and preserves its unique character, we recommend careful and responsible handling.
Below you will find our official care recommendations for historical models.
Water and Moisture
Many vintage models – particularly classic sports watches such as the Omega Seamaster line – were originally designed for use in water. However, these are historical timepieces whose seals and case components may have changed over time.
A conscious and cautious approach to moisture is therefore recommended.
We recommend the following:
- Water exposure only if water resistance has been confirmed
- Always ensure the crown is fully screwed down (if applicable)
- Do not operate the crown or pushers while underwater
- If in doubt, consult us in advance
For long-term safety, we recommend having water resistance tested once per year – especially if the watch is worn regularly or prior to planned use in water.
When in doubt, always ask first. We are happy to advise you on the everyday suitability of your specific model.
Cleaning – Dry Only
Clean your watch exclusively using dry methods and with appropriate care.
- Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth
- Remove dust and skin residue regularly
- Clean leather straps only when dry and protect them from moisture
- Do not use cleaning agents, polishing compounds, or chemical substances
In cases of heavier soiling, we recommend professional cleaning by a qualified specialist.
Protection from Shocks and Impact
Mechanical vintage movements are precisely constructed and correspondingly sensitive.
Avoid:
- Sports activities involving strong impacts
- Manual or physically demanding labor
- Hard impacts against solid surfaces
Even without visible external damage, strong shocks may impair the movement’s functionality.
Temperature and Magnetic Fields
Vintage watches are designed for everyday use and can naturally withstand normal temperature fluctuations. Summer heat inside a vehicle is generally not problematic.
However, extreme conditions – such as prolonged overheating or sudden, drastic temperature changes – should be avoided, as they may affect seals, lubricants, and timekeeping performance over time.
Magnetic fields (e.g., from loudspeakers, induction cooktops, or electronic devices) may influence accuracy. In most cases, simple demagnetization by a watchmaker resolves the issue.
Winding and Setting
Mechanical watches should always be handled with care.
- Wind manual watches daily at approximately the same time
- Turn the crown slowly and without force
- Avoid setting the date between 8:00 PM and 4:00 AM
- Ensure the crown is aligned properly when screwing it down
Improper handling may damage the date mechanism or the movement.
Service Intervals
For mechanical vintage watches, we recommend a full service approximately every 8 years, depending on the model and wearing frequency.
A professional service typically includes:
- Disassembly and cleaning of the movement
- Replacement of worn components
- Lubrication and regulation
- Comprehensive functional testing
Regular servicing significantly contributes to value preservation and long-term reliability.
Storage
If you are not wearing your watch:
- Store it in a dry, dust-protected environment
- Avoid direct sunlight
- Use a padded watch box or safe
- Do not keep vintage models permanently on a watch winder
