Rolex watches are supposed to last indefinitely, and if taken care off well, they can be passed on from one generation to another, looking exactly the same the day your grandfather bought it.

Congratulations! You are a proud owner of a Rolex. Apart from their distinct legacy and timeless heritage, Rolex also stands for the epitome of durability. Read on why it has remained the top-choice for connoisseurs and watch collectors alike.

But what makes a Rolex, a Rolex?

It all started in 1910, when Rolex were the first wristwatch brand to acquire the Swiss Certificate of Precision by the Official Watch Rating Centre in Bienne. With the certificate, the brand became synonymous with accuracy and quality.

IF YOU ARE WONDERING HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU SEND YOUR WATCH FOR FULL SERVICING, THEN THERE IS NO DEFINITE PERIOD, BUT ROLEX RECOMMENDS THAT YOU SHOULD TAKE IT FOR A SERVICING EVERY 10 YEARS

What Makes Them ‘Expensive’ – They use expensive stainless steel material. While most of the industry use 316L steel, Rolex introduced 904L steel in their watches back in 1988. This grade of steel is corrosion and rust resistant and is harder than other steels. Also, this type of steel takes polish incredibly well.

What makes Rolex the master of watch – They have their own research labs for all kinds of testing purposes. From researching on different oils and lubricants that keep the watches in working mode, to looking for efficient manufacturing techniques, Rolex does it all by itself.

What Makes Rolex Timepieces – They are all hand-assembled and tested. Of course, there are machines to do the complicated procedures, but all Rolex watch hands are set by hand. All things are checked, re-checked and then re-checked again.

If the stainless steel shocked you, hear this to be amazed. Rolex makes its own gold. They source 24K gold and then convert it into 18k yellow, white or Everose gold for the watches!

So now that you know the worth of the watch, let’s talk about the ways you can take care of it to probably pass it on to your son.

Wind you watch

The lubricants in your watch are long-lasting, but that doesn’t mean they can’t dry with time. We don’t need to tell you that a properly lubricated watch will work better and run smoother.

• Try to wind your watch once a month.
• When you have wound your watch, take it off your wrist, and don’t do it while wearing. Because, while doing it when on, most people tilt the crown side of the watch up, which creates pressure on the stem, making it susceptible to breaking.
• While winding the watch is a simple process, doing it while walking down the street isn’t advisable. You should find a quiet place, without any water or dust for the same.

Clean it regularly

A dirty watch doesn’t speak volumes about your personality or personal care.

• Sometimes, tiny particles of dust or debris make their way on your watch and can wreak havoc on it. Just use a polishing cloth with a little warm water to clean it.
• Tip – before using water, screw the crown so that water doesn’t get inside. Also, don’t wet the leather strap at any cost. When using warm water to clean don’t reach out for soap.

Water-resistant is different from waterproof

Watches do come with certain degree of water resistance. So it’s advisable to check your watch’s manual for it. A splash of water could be fine for your watch to resist, but if it’s a downpour in Delhi, we would suggest you take the watch off and keep it in the bag. 

Regular servicing is important

It’s exactly like you get servicing done for your motorbike or car. They need regular maintenance, because lubricants do dry or congeal over time. Cogs and teeth wear. A good mechanical watch needs to be serviced regularly.

• If you are wondering how often should you send your watch for full servicing, then there is no definite period, but Rolex recommends that you should take it for a servicing every 10 years, depending on the model.
• Looking for symptoms to take it for an overhaul? You will notice that the watch has become too slow or fast, or probably has stopped. You might also notice that the watch doesn’t stay wound, or the date doesn’t change.
• Thinking about the cost of servicing? Since the watch is a legacy, you will have to spend around Rs 50k. But think of it as an investment that will keep the timepiece as good as new and ready to be passed on!