Celebrate Independence Day and Don't Ruin Your Watch

Hey Watch Nerds!

Fun fact. Michael Kobold started his eponymous brand as a 19-year-old college student in 1988 and built his class project with the input and encouragement of his mentor, Chronoswiss founder Gerd-Rüdiger Lang. Kobold Watch Co., originally based in Pittsburgh, PA was the first watch brand to sell its timepieces exclusively online, and counted a number of VIPs among its early fans, including the late "Sopranos" actor James Gandolfini, “24” star Kiefer Sutherland (who wore a Kobold in his role as Jack Bauer).

Here’s what we have in today’s email:

• Summer Watch Care get out the towel and sunscreen.

• Own The Watch support a good cause with an American-made watch.

• Watches Go AI Cheesin’ It Up.

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SUMMER WATCH CARE

While you’re out having fun in the sun, it’s important to still take care of your watch.

Happy Independence Day! I know it's a holiday here in the US, so I'll keep this brief. Before you head outside in the sun to fire up the grill, let's talk about watches. With the summer in full swing, it's important that we give our watches the love they deserve.

So hold my beer, as I make my way to the podium to talk about summer watch care.

Know Your Limits!

Water resistance ratings on watches can be confusing. But they’re crucial for knowing what you can and shouldn't do during summer activities. You'll see "ATM" used here. It stands for atmospheres. You're good at math so you'll see the pattern.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• 30m (3 ATM): Splash resistant. Great for everyday activities like washing your hands or getting caught in the rain. Definitely not good for swimming.

• 50m (5 ATM): Suitable for light swimming in shallow waters, but not for diving or snorkeling. (In my personal opinion, I'd consider these splashproof, too)

• 100m (10 ATM): Safe for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports, but not for scuba diving. My minimum requirement for a watch.

• 200m (20 ATM) and above: Ideal for serious water activities, including scuba diving. Yes, do all the things.

These ratings are based on laboratory tests under static conditions. Real-life use, like moving your arms in the water, can create pressures higher than those simulated in tests. And NEVER mess around with the crown (little turney thing) underwater.

Towel Yourself Off

After enjoying a swim, rinse your watch with fresh water. Especially if you've been in saltwater or a chlorinated pool. Salt and chlorine are corrosive. This can potentially damage the seals and other components of your watch. Rinse your watch under fresh water and pat it dry with a soft cloth.

Regularly check the seals of your watch, or have your local watch guru do it for you. Over time, the seals that keep water out can wear down. Have your watch’s water resistance tested periodically (every 10ish years), especially if you’re frequently in the water. A professional service can replace the gaskets and ensure that your watch remains watertight.

Hot In Herre

Extreme temperatures can be the silent enemy of your watch. High heat can cause the oils inside a mechanical watch to thin out. This may lead to improper lubrication and increased wear on the movement.

For quartz watches, intense heat can affect the battery and even damage electronic components.

Sunshine, We Don’t Belong Here

Prevent your watch from looking like a washed-out beach towel. Don't let it bake in the sun. Direct sunlight can cause the dial and bezel to fade over time. If you must be in the sun, wear your watch under your sleeve. (Life hack, have a cheap, "beater" watch to wear)

When not in use, store your watch in a cool, dry place. Watch boxes or cases with UV protection can help shield your timepiece from harmful rays. Remember, sun damage is often irreversible, so taking these precautions can keep your watch looking sharp for years.

We’re Talkin’ Swamp Sweaty

Sweat might be a sign of a good workout, but it’s not so great for your watch. The salts in your sweat corrode metal cases and bracelets. It also causes leather straps to deteriorate more quickly. Over time, sweat can also creep into the crevices of your watch and affect the movement.

To mitigate this, wipe down your watch with a soft, damp cloth after intense activities. This helps remove your nastiness. If your watch has a leather strap, consider swapping it for a rubber or NATO strap during the summer months. These materials are more resistant to moisture and are easier to clean.

(My recommendation is Summit Straps. Check them out here and use OwnTheWatch10 for a discount on your order)

Summary

That’s it. Now, who has my beer? And give me a spatula and some tongs! I hope you found these 5 tips helpful. Let's get back to the celebration!

OWN THE WATCH

American-Made Bulova Hack Watch VWI Special Edition

This is a great and affordable field watch from an American company. For only $340, it’s a great watch.

Flaunt it in front of your drunk uncle at the family cookout today while supporting the Veterans Watchmaker Initiative, a non-profit organization that teaches war vets the art of watchmaking.

WATCHES GO AI

📝 Prompt: create a wristwatch that is all things that represent patriotism in the United States of America. show the watch on the wrist from the point of view from the person wearing it while also cooking at an outdoor bbq.

OUTTA TIME

I wanted to keep it quick, yet informative today. If you’re in the US, celebrate the day. If you’re not, I want you to still have an incredible day.

It’s important to take care of your watches, and many (like me) often forget that the summer can be extra hard on them.

As always, thanks for being here, and until next time!

Wear it well and wear it often,

~Ian

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