At Mallard Jewellers, we understand that a luxury watch is more than
just an accessory – it’s a long-term investment, a symbol of prestige,
and a testament to fine craftsmanship. Whether you’ve purchased a
pre-owned Rolex, inherited a vintage Omega Speedmaster, or are browsing
our collection of luxury second-hand watches, caring for your timepiece
properly is essential to preserving its value and function.
With over 90 years of experience in fine jewellery and watches, our team
has put together this expert guide to help you protect your investment
and enjoy your watch for years to come.
Why Watch Maintenance Matters
Luxury
watches are precision instruments, often containing hundreds of
intricate components. Without proper care and regular maintenance, even
the finest brands – such as
Breitling,
TAG Heuer, and
Cartier – can become less accurate or show signs of wear.
Maintaining your timepiece ensures:
- Long-term performance and reliability
- Preservation of resale and insurance value
- Protection against unnecessary damage
- Continued aesthetic appeal
Every pre-owned watch sold by Mallard Jewellers is fully
refurbished and guaranteed – but once it’s yours, caring for it is just
as important.
Daily Luxury Watch Care Tips
Best Practices for Daily Use
- Clean your watch regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dirt, moisture, and oils.
- Keep your watch away from magnets, which can affect mechanical accuracy.
- Remove your watch during manual labour or sports, unless it is specifically designed for those activities (e.g. a diving or sports chronograph).
- Ensure the crown is always screwed down properly if your watch is water-resistant.
- Wind mechanical watches every few days, even when not in use, to prevent lubricant stagnation.
What to Avoid
- Do not expose your watch to extreme temperatures or sudden temperature changes.
- Avoid contact with chemicals, perfumes, and cleaning agents, which can damage the finish.
- Do not attempt to open the case back or perform DIY servicing.
- Never submerge a non-water-resistant watch in water.
How Often Should a Luxury Watch Be Serviced?
It is recommended that mechanical and automatic watches be serviced every
3 to 5 years, even if no issues are visible. Quartz watches may require less frequent servicing but will need
battery replacements periodically.
Common signs your watch may need servicing:
- Loss of timekeeping accuracy
- Difficulty setting the time or date
- Moisture under the crystal
- Unusual noises from the movement
At Mallard Jewellers, we offer professional advice and servicing quotes across all our branches. Most
watch batteries can be changed in-store, with no appointment required.
How to Clean Your Watch at Home
For Stainless Steel Bracelets:
- Use a soft brush (like a toothbrush) and a mild soapy water solution.
- Gently scrub the bracelet, avoiding the watch head if it is not water-resistant.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a lint-free cloth.
For Leather Straps:
- Wipe down with a damp cloth and dry immediately.
- Avoid soaking the strap or using leather treatments that contain oils or perfumes.
For Gold and Precious Metals:
- Use a dry polishing cloth specifically designed for jewellery.
- Do not use abrasive materials or household cleaners.
Proper Storage for Luxury Watches
Correct storage helps preserve the condition of your watch:
- Store in a watch box or pouch to prevent scratches.
- Use a watch winder for automatic watches not worn regularly.
- Keep watches in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and humidity.
- Maintain all documentation and boxes for provenance and resale value.
Mallard Jewellers offers a wide range of
pre-owned luxury watches with original packaging and certification, making them ideal collector’s pieces or gifts.
Insuring and Valuing Your Timepiece
We recommend insuring high-value watches against loss, theft, or damage. Our team can provide
professional watch valuations for insurance purposes – simply visit your local branch and ask for details.
This is especially important for collectors of discontinued or limited-edition models such as the
Omega 007 Bond watch,
Cartier Tank, or
Tudor Heritage Chronograph.
Trusted Care from Mallard Jewellers
Every pre-owned watch at Mallard Jewellers is:
- Carefully inspected and refurbished
- Authenticated by professionals with decades of experience
- Sold with a guarantee for your peace of mind
Our collection includes luxury watch brands such as
Rolex,
Breitling,
Omega,
Cartier,
TAG Heuer,
Tudor,
Panerai,
Longines, and many others.
Whether you're buying your first luxury timepiece or looking to
upgrade an existing one, our knowledgeable staff are here to guide you
every step of the way.
Visit Mallard Jewellers Today
With seven branches located in
Basildon,
Romford,
Ilford,
Southend,
Nottingham,
Leicester, and
Peterborough, expert advice and service is never far away.
Explore our full range of
second-hand luxury watches online or visit us in-store for:
- Watch servicing and battery replacements
- Valuations for insurance
- Buying and selling pre-owned timepieces
- Pawnbroking services secured against your watches
