The mechanical watch must be protected from external influences such as pressure, vibration, extreme temperatures, large temperature fluctuations or strong magnetic fields.

It goes without saying, but do not drop your mechanical watch. A shock could disrupt the mechanism or, in the case of the crown, lead to water leakage. Not to mention possible scratches or dents on the case. If you do drop your watch, STOWA Service offers a revision and refurbishment service.

Store your mechanical watch carefully, dry and out of direct sunlight.

The cases of most of our watches are made of stainless steel. All STOWA watches are fitted with sapphire crystals to prevent too many scratches from spoiling the view of the dial after a while. Both can be easily cleaned with a cloth, as is also used for spectacles, for example.

Please note that the indication of water resistance applies to the new condition of the watch and is not a permanent characteristic according to DIN 8310. The sealing elements of your watch are subject to natural ageing. Seals, e.g. in crowns and chronograph pushers, are also subject to increased wear due to the movement of the components, and impacts on the corresponding areas can also lead to damage to the seals. You should therefore generally try to avoid contact between your watch and water.
If contact with water is unavoidable, have your watch checked for water resistance at least once a year, but at the latest before any planned contact with water. You can have this check carried out by us or a watchmaker in your area. Refrain from operating the crown or chronograph pusher in water. Also make sure that the crown of your watch is in contact with the case before a "dive" and, if your watch offers the option, that the screw-down crown is also screwed in.

We are in constant contact with our strap suppliers to ensure the best quality. However, leather watch straps are a natural product and a commodity. It is very difficult to define a clear guideline as to when a strap should be replaced.
Many of our customers (who wear their watches very often) change the strap every year. However, this always depends on the individual condition of the strap.
The lifespan of leather straps is not unlimited and depends heavily on the wearing habits.

Clean your Milanese bracelet occasionally with a soft cloth.
If the strap is very dirty, you can also clean it carefully with mild soapy water and a toothbrush, for example. However, please ensure that only the strap comes into contact with water, taking into account the water resistance of your watch (at least 10 atm).

The material bronze - the attractive alternative to steel or precious metals when it comes to watch cases. A color that is reminiscent of pre-industrial times. The patina that develops over time through reaction with oxygen gives every watch a vintage look that attracts collectors. This look varies depending on the wearer and environmental influences, so that after a certain period of time, each bronze watch is an unmistakably unique piece. Once a layer of oxidized copper has formed, the underlying material is protected from corrosion. The material properties do not change. The advantages of the material are its warm appearance and durability. Bronze is also anti-magnetic.

A small disadvantage is that bronze can trigger allergic reactions directly on the skin. This is why our bronze watches are also available from STOWA with a steel back on request. This avoids direct contact with the skin.