Things to Check Gradually When the Error Changes

If the error of a mechanical watch is noticeable, it's easy to distinguish between normal and malfunction with just one comparison. However, the actual error is affected by factors such as the degree of winding of the mainspring, wearing time and movement, the position overnight, temperature, magnetism, and shocks. Even the same watch can yield different results every day, so it's essential to first organize the measurement conditions and the timing when the changes began.

This list compiles items that users can check without disassembling or adjusting the watch, in order. Keeping a record for several days at the same reference time and similar time zones, while also noting whether wearing was shorter than usual or if the watch was exposed to strong magnets and shocks, can help reduce vague anxieties. The manufacturer's accuracy indication should be read together with the testing conditions and caliber.

If the watch suddenly speeds up or slows down significantly, or if it stops repeatedly even after being sufficiently wound, it's safer to contact official service rather than just continue recording. Demagnetization and error adjustment require specialized equipment and diagnostics. What users should do is not to strain themselves trying to reproduce the symptoms but to accurately convey the error and the wearing environment over a few days.

Recording errors is not about rating the watch but about finding out what has changed from the usual patterns. By looking at averages over several days rather than just daily results, and by documenting the winding state, wearing time, and overnight position together, it becomes easier to distinguish between mere changes in usage conditions and signals that need checking. You should also verify that the official allowable range matches the testing standards for your caliber.

If there were sudden changes after being near strong magnets or dropping the watch, document the time and circumstances. Even if there are no apparent issues, internal components may be affected, so you should not attempt to demagnetize, open the case, or adjust errors yourself. If there are significant errors or repeated stops even after sufficient winding, it's safer to request a diagnosis from official service.

When leaving it to the service, it's more useful to convey not just that it's running fast or slow, but also to share the daily error, reference times, wearing time, position, and exposure situations. Such records help reduce unnecessary speculation and guide the inspection direction. Even after returning to the normal range, checking occasionally in the same way allows one to understand the usual rhythm of their watch.