How long do quartz watches last? This is a common question often asked by every watch enthusiast. No matter if you are planning to buy a Tsar Bomba quartz watch or already possess one, your curiosity to know about the longevity of a quartz watch, will be fulfilled by this blog.
Various rumors are circulating about the lifespan of quartz watches. One is that mechanical watches have a greater life span than quartz watches. However, it is not necessarily true. The latter can have greater longevity than the former one if maintained properly and vice versa. Thus, it all depends on how one cares for one's watch.
This blog will help you understand what factors help quartz watches outlive other watches in the market. To be more precise, what all factors can be done to make the watch last long?
Will A Quartz Watch Last Long?
Maybe or maybe not!
Well, it is believed that most quartz watches will not last as long as mechanical or automatic watches due to the constru ction of the watch. But why?
A quartz watch utilizes a battery and a tiny quartz crystal that vibrates at a precise frequency to maintain accurate timekeeping. As time passes, the battery will eventually need to be changed. Conversely, automatic or mechanical watches do not rely on batteries and are constructed from metal parts; additionally, while a quartz watch involves electronic components, mechanical and automatic watches do not.
But it only makes some sense to us. We believe that, just like everything else, the longevity of the watch depends on its care. Proper care and maintenance ensure the quartz watch can last decades or even longer.
So, whether you possess a mechanical, automatic, or quartz watch, it will only last for a while if not taken care of.
Also read: Quartz VS Automatic watches: Which one you should choose?
Why does a quartz watch stop working?
Before you ask yourself, "What makes the quartz watch last long?" It is first essential to read up on what things impact the performance of your watch.
Quartz watches last for years without breaking down. However, they generally stop working due to the following reasons:
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Watch Battery:
Unlike other watches, quartz watches run on a battery. So, it is often common for quartz watches to stop working because of the dead battery. Moreover, the other cause could be the possibility of battery leakage due to an old/ damaged battery.
However, the pace at which a battery will start depleting will depend on the quality of the watch and the battery's size.
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Water damage:
Even a single drop of water can damage the entire internal mechanics of the watch. For example, if exposed to water, the water can cause so much damage to the watch gears and parts that some of the parts of the watch will stop working over a shorter duration, and the chances of it getting repaired instead of getting replaced will turn out too low.
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Physical damage:
Some physical damage is expected when you wear your watch regularly. Minor watch damages can be ignored, but if the damage is such that it troubles the internal mechanics of your watch, then it becomes a matter of concern, which could make your watch stop functioning correctly over time. So, if your watch has stopped working, check whether you accidentally dropped your watch recently.
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Unauthorized repairs:
An unauthorized watchmaker's repair can cause automatic watches to stop working. These watches have intricate internal components with many small gears and levers specific to each brand. If third-party companies replace the original parts, the watch may need to be fixed. To fix this problem, sending the watch to the manufacturer is recommended. Any repair done by a non-authorized dealer will void the warranty, making official repairs more cost-effective in the long term.
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High electrical currents:
When searching for solutions to a watch that has stopped working, you may hear stories of people who can't wear watches due to their electrical currents. In rare cases, a watch may stop ticking when someone puts it on due to the high electrical currents in their body. This phenomenon can affect the watch's battery life and whether it works.
What can be done to make the watch last long?
Although Quartz watches are known for their reliability and precision, they are not immune to wear and tear. We will go through several factors that can be considered for adequately maintaining the life of the quartz watch.
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Regular Servicing:
Regular servicing of your watch can help keep it running accurately and prevent wear and tear from damaging the internal components. Depending on the manufacturer's recommendations, servicing your watch every 3-5 years is generally recommended.
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Battery Replacement:
Quartz watches rely on a battery to keep the timepiece functioning correctly. Over time, the watch's battery can lose its charge, leading to a slowdown or eventual stop of the watch's movement. Replacing the watch's battery every two to three years is essential to avoid damage to other components, even if the watch appears to be running correctly.
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Avoid Extreme Conditions:
Exposure to extreme temperatures, magnetic fields, and moisture can harm the delicate inner workings of a watch. High-humidity environments can cause rust and damage movement, while magnetic fields can affect the watch's accuracy. Additionally, extreme temperature changes can cause the watch's internal mechanics to expand or contract, leading to damage. Avoid exposing your watch to these conditions as much as possible.
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Stem and Crown Maintenance:
The stem and crown are vital to keeping water out of the watch. Ensure that the stem and crown function correctly and do not allow water to seep into the watch. If you notice any issues, it's recommended to have them repaired by a professional watchmaker.
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Proper Storage:
Proper storage of your watch can help protect it from damage. Store your watch in a cool or dry place when you're not wearing it. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight, as UV rays can damage the watch's dial and fade the color of the strap or bracelet. Additionally, high-humidity environments can cause rust and damage to the movement.
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Polishing:
Polishing can help restore the shine of your watch, but it should be done sparingly. Over-polishing can remove valuable metal from the watch, reducing its value. It's recommended to have the watch polished by a professional watchmaker or jeweler to avoid damaging it.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the lifespan of a quartz watch depends on how well the watch is taken care of or maintained. Some factors that impact the performance of quartz watches include a dead battery, water damage, physical damage, unauthorized repairs, and exposure to high electrical currents.
Proper maintenance, such as regular servicing, battery replacement, avoiding extreme conditions, and proper storage, can help keep a quartz watch running accurately and prevent wear and tear from damaging the internal components.
Read More : What are some of the best quartz watches under $500?
