Luxury watches are timeless accessories that reflect craftsmanship, precision, and personal style. However, summer can be particularly harsh on these prized possessions due to heat, humidity, saltwater, and sweat. Whether you're vacationing on the coast, lounging by the pool, or simply braving hot weather, it’s essential to protect your watch from potential damage. Here are key summer watch care tips to ensure your luxury timepiece remains in pristine condition.

1. Know Your Watch’s Water Resistance

Before taking your luxury watch anywhere near water, be aware of its water resistance rating. Not all watches are created equal:

  • 30 meters (3 ATM): Splash-resistant. Avoid swimming or showering.
  • 50 meters (5 ATM): Suitable for brief water exposure like rain.
  • 100 meters or more: Often suitable for swimming, snorkelling, or diving, depending on the exact rating.

Tip: Always check the manufacturer’s specifications and don’t assume your watch can handle water just because it “looks sporty.”

2. Avoid Hot Tubs and Saunas

While your watch may be water-resistant, exposure to high temperatures and steam can damage internal seals and gaskets, compromising its water resistance.

Recommendation: Remove your watch before entering hot tubs, saunas, or steam rooms. Sudden temperature shifts can also cause condensation inside the crystal.

3. Clean Your Watch Regularly

Sweat, sunscreen, sand, and saltwater are a recipe for residue buildup, especially in metal bracelets and case backs.

  • After beach or pool time, rinse the watch under lukewarm fresh water (if water-resistant) and pat dry with a microfiber cloth.
  • Use a soft toothbrush to clean between bracelet links and around the lugs.

Warning: Never immerse a non-water-resistant watch in water to clean it.

A Cape Cod Detail Brush, peg wood, a Cape Cod microfiber cloth, microfiber detail sticks, and wipes from Medtrica (shown above).

4. Protect Leather Straps from Moisture

Leather and moisture don’t mix. In summer, sweat and humidity can deteriorate leather, causing it to discolor, crack, or smell.

Tips:

  • Swap leather bands for rubber, NATO, or metal bracelets during summer months.
  • If you must wear leather, choose treated or water-resistant leather, and let the strap dry fully between wears.

You need to condition your leather straps regulalry as the moisture inside will dry up and form cracks over time.

5. Keep it Out of Direct Sunlight

Extended exposure to direct sunlight can fade the dial, degrade luminous materials, and age the strap prematurely.

Advice:

  • Store your watch in a shaded, cool place when not wearing it.
  • Avoid placing it on hot surfaces like a dashboard or windowsill.

6. Use a Watch Protector or Pouch for Travel

Summer is often travel season, and luxury watches can get scuffed or scratched when packed loosely.

Recommendation:

  • Use a watch travel roll, case, or soft pouch to protect it.
  • Avoid placing it near hard objects like keys or electronics in your luggage.

7. Be Mindful of Magnetism

From airport security scanners to smartphones and tablets, summer travel exposes your watch to magnetic fields that can affect its accuracy.

Tip: Keep your watch away from magnets and electronic devices for prolonged periods. If it starts running fast or slow, it may need demagnetization by a professional.

Rolex Milgauss One of the most famous "anti-magnetic" watches produced.

8. Have the Watch Pressure Tested

If your watch hasn’t been pressure-tested recently, get it checked by a professional before exposing it to water.

  • Why? Gaskets can dry out and seals may weaken over time, especially in older or vintage watches.
  • This test ensures the watch maintains its intended water resistance.

9. Apply Sunscreen Before Wearing Your Watch

Sunscreen is essential for skin protection, but it can leave greasy residues on your watch that attract dirt.

Advice:

  • Apply sunscreen first and allow it to fully absorb before strapping on your watch.
  • Wipe down the watch regularly to prevent buildup.

10. Use a UV-Resistant Watch Box or Display Case

If you're displaying your watch at home, make sure your watch box or display is UV-resistant to prevent sun damage through windows.

  • Look for cases with UV-filtering glass or keep your collection in a cool drawer when not in use.

11. Limit Exposure to Sand and Grit

Sand particles can scratch your watch case or crystal and get stuck in bracelet links or crown mechanisms.

Tip: Avoid wearing your luxury watch while playing beach sports or building sandcastles. If you do, rinse thoroughly afterward.

12. Tighten the Crown and Pushers

Before swimming or even rinsing your watch, ensure the crown is fully screwed in and any pushers are secure. This keeps water out of the internal case.

Reminder: Never adjust the crown or use chronograph functions underwater unless your watch is specifically designed for it (like a professional dive watch).

13. Avoid Shock and Impact

Summer activities can be rough on your watch. From beach volleyball to hiking, high-impact sports can cause damage.

Advice:

  • Choose rugged sport models for intense activities.
  • Save your delicate or vintage pieces for evening wear or relaxed settings.

Choose rugged sport models for intense activities.

14. Schedule a Summer Service Check

If it’s been a few years since your last service, consider a maintenance check before summer adventures.

  • A watchmaker can check water resistance, clean the case, lubricate the movement, and replace gaskets as needed.

Bonus: A fresh service often improves timekeeping and extends the life of your watch.

15. Rotate Watches Based on Activity

If you own multiple luxury watches, consider rotating them based on your summer plans.

  • Metal or rubber straps for beach days.
  • Dress watches for summer weddings or evening events.
  • Smart or rugged watches for hikes and sports.

This preserves the condition of each piece and ensures you're wearing the right tool for the job.

Conclusion

Luxury watches are meant to be worn and enjoyed—even in summer. But high heat, UV exposure, moisture, and sand can shorten the life of your timepiece if not properly managed. By following these essential summer care tips, you’ll protect your investment and keep your watch looking flawless all season long. A little maintenance and mindfulness go a long way in preserving both the beauty and performance of your cherished wristwear.