Quartz Watches and Why They Need Oil, Too381

Quartz watches are often touted as being maintenance-free, but that's not entirely true. While they don't need to be oiled as often as mechanical watches, they do need to be oiled periodically to keep them running smoothly and accurately. Here's why:

The movement of a quartz watch is made up of a number of tiny gears and other components. These components are constantly moving, and over time, the friction between them can cause them to wear down. Oil helps to reduce this friction and keep the components moving smoothly. Without oil, the movement could become jammed or damaged, causing the watch to stop working.

In addition to reducing friction, oil also helps to protect the components of the movement from corrosion. The inside of a watch is a humid environment, and over time, the moisture in the air can cause the metal components to rust. Oil helps to create a barrier between the metal and the moisture, preventing corrosion and keeping the movement running smoothly.

How often a quartz watch needs to be oiled depends on a number of factors, including the quality of the watch, the environment in which it is worn, and how often it is used. In general, a quartz watch should be oiled every 2-3 years. However, if the watch is worn in a dusty or humid environment, or if it is used frequently, it may need to be oiled more often.

If you're not sure whether or not your quartz watch needs to be oiled, you can take it to a watchmaker for a checkup. The watchmaker will be able to inspect the movement and tell you if it needs to be oiled.

How to Oil a Quartz Watch

Oiling a quartz watch is a delicate procedure that should be performed by a qualified watchmaker. However, if you're feeling adventurous, you can try oiling the watch yourself. Here's how:
Gather your materials. You will need a small amount of watch oil, a toothpick, and a clean cloth.
Open the watch case. Use a watchmaker's knife or a small screwdriver to open the watch case. Be careful not to damage the watch case or the movement.
Locate the movement. The movement is the part of the watch that contains the gears and other components. It is usually held in place by a few screws.
Apply the oil. Use the toothpick to apply a small amount of oil to the gears and other moving parts of the movement. Be careful not to over-oil the movement, as this can attract dirt and dust.
Reassemble the watch. Once you have oiled the movement, reassemble the watch in the reverse order of disassembly. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws.

Once you have oiled the watch, it is important to test it to make sure that it is working properly. Set the time and date, and then wear the watch for a few days to make sure that it is keeping accurate time.

Oiling a quartz watch is a relatively simple procedure, but it is important to do it correctly to avoid damaging the watch. If you are not comfortable oiling the watch yourself, you should take it to a qualified watchmaker.

2025-01-26

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