Patek Philippe Maintenance
A Patek Philippe watch is created to last a lifetime. An enduring heirloom that can be passed from one generation to the next, it is designed to stand the test of time. The purchase of one of these iconic watches brings with it the reassurance that Patek Philippe pledges to service, repair, or restore any of its own watches, regardless of its age or design. However, as with all precious treasures, maintenance is key.
We have put together a few tips and tricks in order to ensure that you always know exactly how to care for your watch, whether that be regular servicing by a Patek Philippe trained and certified watchmaker, or a little bit of gentle at home maintenance.
Essential everyday management:
- Make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow the maintenance suggestions.
- Where possible try to protect your watch against extreme temperature fluctuations.
- Avoid activities that might expose your watch to strong vibrations or severe shocks.
- Avoid exposing your mechanical watch to magnetic fields- these can change the rate of the watch or even cause it to stop running.
- Always ensure the crown and pushers are returned to their home positions after each use and screwed down where applicable.
Strap maintenance
Before wearing your watch please ensure the bracelet is adjusted properly to fit your wrist, this will prevent unnecessary wear and tear. We do not recommend wearing any other jewellery on the same wrist as your watch. As with many natural materials, leather straps can age prematurely if they come into contact with various substances, such as water or excessive sunlight. In order to prolong the strap’s lifespan we also suggest taking it off at night, therefore allowing it to ‘breathe’. Leather straps may eventually need to be replaced.
Waterproofing
Your Patek Philippe timepiece is a masterpiece of precision, designed with special seals to safeguard against moisture and even the finest dust particles. To ensure this protective feature continues to function perfectly, we recommend an annual check. Boodles is here to assist in organising this important service, ensuring your treasured watch remains in impeccable condition
Moreover, we suggest rinsing your watch with tap water after any contact with salt or chlorinated water. If the watch is underwater or still wet, please refrain from using any of its functions.
Movements and winding
Ideally, all manually wound watches should be wound every morning. This will maximise the flawless movement of each watch and reduce its susceptibility to minor damage as well as wear and tear.
Self-winding movements on the other hand have a power reserve of 38-48 hours. If the watch has not been worn for that duration of time, it can be wound manually through a few simple turns of the crown. Once this has been done it will start running again.
Servicing suggestions
All Patek Philippe watches will need to be serviced through one of the authorised Service Centres every five years. Batteries will only last two to three years so these will need to be replaced more frequently.