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Hello everyone!
This column, which discusses mechanical watches from an engineer's perspective, is now in its 31st installment. This time, the topic will be:
'Is it OK to use vintage watches during the rainy season?'
Let's talk about this theme.
"Humidity" and "moisture" are major enemies for the movement of mechanical watches. They are absolutely to be avoided as they directly lead to malfunctions of internal components.
Even "Oyster case" models from 【Rolex】 that originally boasted high water resistance may have lost their high waterproof performance over time if they are vintage models.
This time, I would like to share tips and precautions for using such vintage watches during the rainy season.
Risks of using vintage watches on rainy days
① Potential decline in water resistance
Since vintage watches are decades old, even if they originally had high water resistance, their gaskets are often deteriorated.
When gaskets are in such a state, water resistance becomes virtually nonexistent.
The image shows the inside of a watch that has been submerged in seawater, but there is also a risk of water intrusion from use on rainy days. Therefore, please avoid using vintage watches that have not been maintained for many years on rainy days.
Although replacing gaskets can restore function, in the case of SS (stainless steel) models, the case material itself may corrode, preventing water resistance from being fully restored even with new gaskets. In such a situation, it is difficult to fully restore water resistance without replacing the case.
② Humidity's adverse effects on the movement
When humidity enters, rust and corrosion are more likely to occur inside the movement. Older movements, in particular, use more iron materials that are prone to rust compared to current models.
Therefore, humidity can lead to critical damage such as reduced accuracy or the watch stopping.
③ Adverse effects on the dial
If a watch with compromised water resistance is used on a rainy day, moisture can penetrate the case and cause condensation, posing a risk of discoloration or staining to the original dial and hands, which are characteristic of vintage watches.
*Image is a service dial
The value of a vintage watch is heavily influenced by the originality of its appearance, so this is something to avoid.
Measures to take if you want to use it on rainy days
① Conduct a water resistance check
If you absolutely want to use your vintage watch on a rainy day, we recommend replacing the gaskets and having a specialty store conduct a water resistance test. Of course, the safest option is to request maintenance from the manufacturer, but please understand that in such cases, exterior parts that affect the watch's appraisal may also be replaced.
② Replacement of plastic crystal
Plastic crystals that have been used for many years can develop cracks in the unseen edge (where it meets the bezel). If this happens, water resistance is virtually nonexistent, so if you want to use your vintage watch on a rainy day, it's better to replace the crystal for peace of mind.
Replacing a plastic crystal is relatively inexpensive and does not significantly impact the watch's appraisal even if replaced. Therefore, I believe it is preferable to prioritize functionality and replace it with a new part rather than maintaining the original part.
Summary
How was it?
The humid rainy season is a challenging time for vintage watches with reduced water resistance.
Especially if you own an expensive vintage model, it's best not to force its use on rainy days and instead store it carefully. However, if the worn parts have been properly replaced and water resistance is maintained, there's no need to worry, so please use it with confidence!
I hope this article provided useful information and sparked some interest in luxury watches! Also, please feel free to ask any questions directly, and we will answer them thoroughly. We look forward to your visit and inquiries.
Stay tuned for the next installment! See you then!
