Caring for your AJ-003 collection watch
Owning a collection watch like the AJ-003 calls for a few simple habits, different in some ways from those for a standard everyday watch. The dial in particular, a genuine fragment of automotive bodywork, deserves attention that the steel case doesn't require in quite the same way.
Magnetism: a quiet risk
Like any mechanical movement, the Sellita SW300-1B in your watch can be disrupted by a strong magnetic field, from a speaker, a bag clasp magnet, or certain phone cases, for example. Excessive magnetism can cause the watch to lose or gain time suddenly, though in most cases without permanent damage. A watchmaker can demagnetise the movement if needed. Simply avoid leaving the watch in prolonged close contact with these kinds of objects.
Knocks and chemicals
The 316L steel case handles everyday knocks well, but a hard impact can affect movement accuracy even without leaving a visible mark on the outside. Avoid contact with solvents, alcohol, or household cleaning products too: these can dull the case finish and, if they reach the dial, permanently alter its patina. Our case cleaning guide covers the products to avoid and the right approach for the case.
Temperature and humidity
Extreme temperature swings, going from a sauna into cold air or leaving the watch in direct sunlight on a beach, put strain on the water resistance gaskets over time and can slightly affect movement accuracy. Store the watch somewhere temperate rather than in a car in summer or near a window that gets sun all day.
The leather strap needs its own care
The French leather strap that comes with your watch needs different attention from the case: it doesn't like standing water, cosmetics, or direct heat. Our strap cleaning guide covers the right approach for this material.
Why these precautions are not excessive
These recommendations may seem like a long list, but none of them are specific to a fragile watch: they apply to any quality automatic mechanical watch, whatever the brand. The one difference with the AJ-003 is the dial, a non-reproducible piece that warrants a little extra care compared to a mass-produced one. The rest, the case, movement, and strap, are handled with the same reasonable attention as any quality automatic watch.
Keep a copy of your proof of purchase and these technical details somewhere safe, ideally as a digital scan. It's useful both for an insurance claim and for any future assessment by a watchmaker.
These precautions aren't limited to water and chemicals: activities involving repeated impacts at the wrist, such as golf or racket sports, are also worth thinking about. It's a sensible precaution for any mechanical watch of quality, not a limitation specific to the AJ-003.
The simplest precaution is often the most effective: take a look at your watch while you're wearing it. A quick glance from time to time will catch a new scratch, a trace of moisture, or a sign of wear before it develops further, far more reliably than an annual check-up.
What to remember
Most of these precautions are straightforward: keep the dial clear of direct contact, keep the watch away from sources of magnetism and excessive heat, and avoid aggressive chemicals. For day-to-day case care, our cleaning guide covers the right steps for each material, and our daily storage guide covers how to store the watch between wears.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if my watch starts gaining or losing time unexpectedly?
A small daily variation is normal on a mechanical movement, within the limits set by COSC certification. If you notice a sudden and significant drift, several minutes lost or gained in a single day, there are two likely causes. The first is magnetic exposure, which a watchmaker can correct easily with demagnetisation. The second is a mechanical issue that needs a service. In either case, it's worth getting it looked at without waiting.
Can I wear the AJ-003 in the rain?
Yes, without concern. With 5 ATM water resistance, the watch handles rain, splashes, and normal outdoor use without issue. Prolonged submersion is best avoided. After exposure to rain or humidity, a quick wipe with a microfibre cloth will remove any water traces before they settle around the case.
Can I wear the AJ-003 for sport?
For light to moderate activity, yes. For sports involving repeated impacts at the wrist (golf, racket sports, heavy lifting), it's worth taking the watch off as a precaution. Repeated knocks can affect movement accuracy without leaving a visible mark on the case. This isn't a weakness specific to the AJ-003: it's a sensible precaution for any automatic mechanical watch.
Should I insure my collection watch?
It's strongly advisable. Check whether your home insurance covers valuables outside the home (when travelling, at work, on an evening out). If not, a dedicated jewellery and watch policy is worth considering. Photograph the serial number and keep a digital copy of your proof of purchase as soon as the watch arrives : these details simplify any claim considerably.