How Long Will My Orient Automatic Watch Last?
Contrary to some opinions, an Orient automatic watch can last a long time, even a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Let's explore the key factors that influence the longevity of these timepieces.
Quality of Materials
Orient watches are known for their high-quality materials, which are designed to withstand daily wear and tear. Unlike cheaper quartz watches, Orient watches are built to last and maintain their precision over time.
Regular Maintenance
Regular servicing is crucial for the health of an automatic watch. Most watch experts recommend servicing your Orient automatic watch every 3-5 years. This can help ensure that the movement functions smoothly, catching any potential issues before they become serious problems.
Usage
How often you wear the watch can also impact its lifespan. Automatic watches rely on motion to keep them wound. Regular wear keeps the mechanism active and prevents it from getting stuck in one position. Therefore, wearing your Orient watch frequently is beneficial for its longevity.
Storage
If you do not wear your watch regularly, storing it in a watch winder can help keep it running smoothly. A watch winder simulates the motion of wearing the watch and ensures that the internal mechanisms stay lubricated and functional.
Environmental Factors
Exposure to extreme temperatures, magnetic fields, and harsh chemicals can damage the movement and case of your watch. It's important to protect your Orient automatic watch from such environmental factors to ensure its continued accuracy and integrity.
With proper care, many Orient automatic watches can last for decades or even longer. A watch that is not serviced can last approximately a decade. Regular servicing can extend this lifespan to 5-7 years, and in some cases, it could potentially last much longer. Proper care is key to maximizing the lifetime of your Orient automatic watch.
The cost of servicing an Orient automatic watch can be significant, especially in the Western world, where it is often comparable to the cost of getting a new watch or replacing the movement. However, in some parts of the world, the cost may be more manageable.
Understanding that mechanical watches, including those from Orient, are subject to wear and tear is important. The system relies on springs and gears that rotate constantly. While these systems are designed to use very little force, they do require maintenance to keep the mechanisms well-lubricated. High-quality mechanical watches should be "serviced" – a process that involves cleaning and oiling – every 5 to 10 years. This regular maintenance ensures that the watch continues to function accurately over time.
It's fascinating to note that some people wear watches that are over 150 years old, and they still function accurately. Orient watches, with their better materials and more advanced production techniques, could potentially last even longer. Of course, accidental damage or misuse can also lead to premature failure.
Proper care and regular servicing are the keys to ensuring that your Orient automatic watch continues to serve you well for a long time to come.