Discover Your Partner’s Ring Size Without Them Finding Out

Discover Your Partner’s Ring Size Without Them Finding Out

/in /by

If you have finally decided to pop the question, you are going to need a ring. But how do you find out what your partner’s ring size is?

This is a common question amongst people who have decided they want to spend their lives with their partners.

Here are a few tips that will guide you through this exciting process.

  • It’s a Subtle Art

If you want the proposal to be a surprise, you will need to find a subtle way to find your partner’s ring size. One way to do this is to pretend you want to buy a ring for your mother, aunt, or sister. Just make sure whoever you choose has hands of a similar size. Ask them to help you with the purchase process by trying on rings. This is a roundabout way to get an idea of average ring size.

  • Use an Existing Ring

If your partner already wears rings, find one that they wear on their ring finger or a similar size finger. By bringing the ring in to a jeweller, it is possible to come up with a size approximation. You might just want to make sure they won’t notice the missing ring too easily.

  • Ask Someone They are Close To

If one of the above methods don’t work, you can always ask a close friend. Many times, friends or family members already know this information. If someone doesn’t know, at least they can casually work the ring size question into conversation without it seeming suspicious. Another way to get an estimate is to have your partner try on a friend’s ring.

  • Sketch It

If you feel that your partner would notice one of their rings is missing, you can always trace the inside and outside of the ring. Create several traces to ensure your jeweller has the best chance of figuring out the diameter of the ring.

  • Just Ask

If these tactics prove to be more difficult than you thought, you can always ask your partner outright. This is not unusual for couples who have been discussing marriage for quite some time. Plus, even if your partner knows you are ring shopping, it doesn’t mean they know when to expect the proposal.

What to Keep in Mind When Shopping for an Engagement Ring

Whether you are shopping for an engagement ring or having one made, keep in mind that the final size of the ring might be slightly off. Unless you ask your partner about the size directly, of course.

The average ring size for women is anything between 5 and 7, and 10 for men.

It’s always recommended that you have the most accurate size estimate possible if you are designing a custom piece though. If anything, rather opt for a slightly larger size if you are unsure. It is easier to make a ring smaller rather than bigger.

You should also keep in mind that a dominant hand tends to be slightly larger, so make sure you are measuring the left hand.

The Temporary Setting Alternative

If you simply don’t want to take a chance, there is always the option of proposing with a temporary setting. After the big moment, you can bring your partner in for a custom fitting, ensuring the engagement ring fits as it should.

You could also use this as an opportunity to make sure your partner is happy with the design you have in mind.

Not all jewellers offer the option of a temporary setting, so you may need to ask around. Custom jewellery designers are more likely to offer this option.

Can My Watch Still Be Repaired

Can My Watch Still Be Repaired?

/in /by

It’s always disappointing when your favourite timepiece stops working. Not as disappointing as finding out it can’t be repaired at all though.

If your watch stops working, the best thing you can do is get it to a horologist as soon as possible. Wearing the watch once it stops working can cause further damage, so avoid doing this.

Whether or not it can actually be repaired still needs to be determined.

Watch Repairs – Beyond Repair or Not?

Who repairs your watch is the first factor that determines whether or not you can save your timepiece.

The good news is that even watches that date back to the 19th century are still working because they’re serviced on a regular basis. However, this entails taking the watch apart, cleaning and reassembling several hundred parts, which is why it requires the assistance of a professional.

There are a lot of online guides that explain how you can service your watch at home, but this is not recommended, particularly if your watches are investments. What’s more, watches need to be serviced and repaired in a clean environment to prevent dust from further damaging the parts.

Even though servicing a watch can keep it in good working order, some repairs are far more complex. And in some rare cases, watches can’t be repaired at all.

There are two instances when a watch could be beyond repair:

Water Damage – Once water enters a watch, it gradually rusts the parts that keep the timepiece working. In many instances, water can make a watch irreparable. Regularly servicing your watch ensures the seals keep water and dust out. Most seals tend to fail because of a lack of maintenance or due to at-home repairs.

Part Sourcing – When the internal mechanism or spring inside a watch is damaged, it needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, it’s much more difficult to source parts for older watches, which means there’s no other option than to replace the watch completely.

The Cost of Maintaining a Timepiece

Many people tend to put off repairs because of the perceived cost. However, what many don’t realise is that the cost of servicing a watch is often far less than having to send it in for repairs.

Naturally, certain watch brands and models are more costly to repair than others. However, there’s never a reason for a timepiece to get to the point where it can’t be repaired.

Regularly servicing a watch instead of waiting for it to stop working is still the most cost-effective solution available to you.

Possible Reasons Why Your Watch Has Stopped Working

Possible Reasons Why Your Watch Has Stopped Working

/in /by

It’s not uncommon for a watch to suddenly stop working and there are several reasons why this might happen.

Sometimes, it’s something as simple as a flat battery that needs replacing. Other times, a watch stops working because there’s a problem with the internal mechanism.

Let’s look at some of the main reasons why people end up bringing their timepieces in for repairs.

Why Your Watch Might Have Stopped Functioning

  • Dirt and Dust Have Built-Up

When a watch isn’t serviced for an extended period of time, dirt and dust can end up affecting the internal components. To correct this issue, the individual parts need to be separated, cleaned and oiled by a professional. From there, your watch should start working as normal again.

  • There’s a Problem with the Automatic Winding Mechanism

There are a few reasons why a winding mechanism stops working correctly, forceful impact is one of the most common. Older watches can be challenging to repair because the winding mechanism can be difficult to source – it can also end up being a costly exercise depending on your watch brand.

  • A Loose Screw is Affecting the Internal Mechanism

It’s possible for a screw to come loose after years of regular hand movements, which ends up interfering with the internal mechanism. Engaging in activities such as golf or mountain biking can also gradually loosen screws within the watch. To correct this, the screw is first removed from the mechanism before it’s replaced and tightened.

  • Water Entered the Watch

It only takes a single drop of water to affect watch functionality. When exposed to liquid, the working parts begin to rust, which gradually prevents the timepiece from working. If the water damage is severe enough, it’s not always possible to repair the watch. Water usually enters a watch when the seals are defective, which is why they need to be checked regularly.

  • The Mainspring is Damaged

Clamping pressure and age can cause the mainspring to tear. Automatic watches are designed to stop unnecessary movements of the rotor, which prevents the spring from over-tightening. In older watches, it’s much easier to break the spring. If the mainspring is damaged, it needs to be replaced completely to get the watch to start working again.

Avoiding Common Watch Concerns

To avoid unnecessary repairs, it’s important to have your timepiece checked by a professional every year. These checks will ensure the watch is working as it should and that the seals are keeping the internal mechanism protected. In fact, the mechanism should be proofed every 5 years to avoid these common problems.

If damage occurs or your timepiece stops working, it’s recommended that you stop wearing it to avoid additional damage. Rather bring it straight to a watch professional for analysis and repair.

Make sure that wherever you take your watch to be repaired that they have experience with your specific watch brand.

If you’re wondering whether finding a professional to assist you with your repairs is really necessary, we suggest reading this blog.

Are Patek Philippe Timepieces a Sound Investment

Are Patek Philippe Timepieces a Sound Investment?

/in /by

No matter what you’re investing in, there will be some degree of risk. Whether you’re investing in bonds or tangible objects such as a watch, it’s the risk that makes investing so lucrative.

Watches are a form of art on your wrist, but by purchasing the right brand and model, your timepiece can also be an investment.

What timepiece to invest in is a common debate amongst watch lovers, but Patek Philippe is one brand that always seems to crop up in these conversations.

A Look at the Patek Philippe Design

Patek Philippe is renowned for its engineering as well as it’s beautiful dial design and finishing details. Any diamonds that are placed are done so by hand, as is any enamel painting. Each watch’s in-house movements are created in Geneva, with each timepiece undergoing stringent quality checks.

It’s no wonder their watches take around 12 months to complete – some of their more complicated pieces take even longer.

The brand is also behind innovations such as the perpetual calendar, split-seconds chronograph and the minute repeater.

Overall, Patek Philippe is one watch brand that takes pride in bringing each customer a unique and memorable timepiece.

Investing in a Patek Philippe Timepiece

Rolex has become such a famous brand that it’s become a go-to option for first-time investors. In fact, you don’t even need to be interested in watches to know the name. Unfortunately, this means that Patek Philippe is often overlooked by new buyers.

This family-owned watch brand was founded in 1839 and to date, they have only produced around a million timepieces. With each watch taking at least a year to complete, it’s not difficult to understand why these timepieces start at around $20,000. Many of their other pieces cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The Grandmaster Chime ref. 6300A-010 is one of the most noticeable Patek watches. It sold for $31m at an auction in 2019, making it the most expensive watch to ever be sold on auction.

Historically, while Patek Philippe is not a brand that always springs to mind first, particularly amongst first-time investors, it has one of the best year-on-year performance records. This alone makes it a sound investment, not to mention the high-end engineering, exclusivity, and noteworthy heritage.

While many celebrities wear this watch as a day-to-day piece, most watch buyers purchase Patek Philippe timepieces as an investment. Their vintage pieces are particularly intricate, making them an ideal investment or family heirloom.

You will also be interested to know that every Patek Philippe watch is registered in their archives, making it that much easier to trace the history of the timepiece. The searchable extract is where you will find the date and time of production, as well as where the watch was originally sold.

In terms of where to purchase a Patek Philippe watch, it’s essential that you take the time to find a reputable dealer. If you are planning to buy from a private buyer, make sure that you know what to look out for to ensure it’s a genuine Patek Philippe timepiece.

Choosing a Diamond Shape_Martins of Glasgow

Choosing a Diamond Shape for Jewellery: A Beginners Guide

/in /by

Whether you’re designing an engagement ring or simply want a beautiful piece of jewellery for yourself, choosing a diamond shape is going to be a part of the process.

The shape is a key part of the design and while some shapes are more modern than others, the shape you choose is mostly dependent on your personal style and preferences.

If you are planning to design a ring for someone else, you might want to get an idea of their shape preferences first. Choosing the shape that you (or your loved one) wants, instead of what’s popular right now, is the first and important step. Colour, size, clarity and price are aspects that will factor in thereafter.

The shape of a diamond is also known as a cut – not to be confused with a rating for diamond cut, which you will find on a grading certificate. A cut in these terms refers to the symmetry and polish.

Understanding Your Diamond Shape Options

Here are the different shapes that you can choose from when designing a ring or piece of jewellery.

Round

This is definitely the most popular diamond shape. Round, brilliant diamonds are well known for their sparkle because of the many individual facets. They’re also popular because they’re so symmetrical and above all else, timeless.

Oval

A popular variation of the round cut, an oval diamond has the same number of facets as a round cut, it’s only the shape that’s different. Many people choose this shape because the elongation tends to maximise the appearance of carat weight. If you or your loved one has smaller hands, an oval shape will lengthen the appearance of your fingers.

Pear

This teardrop-shaped diamond is more modern than its round and oval counterparts. Symmetry and proportions are something to pay attention to when choosing a diamond of this shape. This diamond also has the same number of facets (58) as the round and oval shapes and is ideal for smaller hands.

Marquise

The marquise is similar to the oval shape except, it comes to a dramatic point at each end. This is another shape that tends to maximise the appearance of the diamond’s carat weight. This diamond has the largest surface area – something to keep in mind during the design process.

Princess

This contemporary diamond shape is one of the top five most popular options on the market today. As one of the square-shaped diamonds, the princess cut is most brilliant and can have up to 76 facets, which are arranged to achieve maximum sparkle.

Emerald

An emerald cut is rectangular, but the corners are trimmed. The diamonds long, flat facets look similar to stairs if you look at the stone from above. This unique shape makes it easy to see within the stone, so you want to pay careful attention to clarity and colour when shopping around.

Cushion

When purchasing a cushion cut, you can expect broad facets and rounded corners. This is probably one of the more vintage looking diamonds and because the facets are larger, the diamond produces broad flashes of light instead of the traditional sparkle.

Trillion

If you want something unique, this diamond has a signature triangle shape. When placed in the centre of a ring, the sides of the diamond will be convex with extra facets. If they’re used as side stones, the outer edges are flattened. If you want strong geometrical features, this is the ideal choice.

Radiant

A radiant shape is a combination of a round and emerald cut. Available in a square or rectangular shape, this cut has very distinct corners. This specific shape tends to be cut with a deeper profile to achieve the best possible sparkle.

Heart

While the heart is a sweet and playful shape, it’s normally associated with novelty jewellery. However, many people adore this unique cut. You want to pay attention to brilliance and evenness due to the complexity of the facets.

Asscher

Similar to an emerald cut, an asscher shape is known for its excellent dispersion of light and memorable sparkle. This specific shape can have up to 74 facets but 58 is more common. This is another great pick for those who value a more geometric appearance.

Baguette

Lastly, there’s a baguette shape, which is long and rectangular. With only 14 facets, you want to pay attention to clarity and colour if you want this diamond to look good. This specific diamond shape is most often used as an accent stone.

Knowing there are so many diamond shapes might be overwhelming. However, if you have a good idea of what you or your loved one wants and the assistance of a reputable jeweller, this can be a really enjoyable part of the designed process.

Watch Investment Tips_Martins of Glasgow

7 Need-to-Know Watch Investment Tips

/in /by

The right kind of watch kept in a good condition can end up with a high price tag over time. This is not to say that you should only invest to sell though – owning a unique or vintage watch can be priceless.

If you do want to go the route of investing in a timepiece, it is important to familiarise yourself with brands, models and how the watch valuation process works. Brand is certainly not everything though. Rarity, craftmanship and demand also play a role – discontinued watches are in particular demand.

Most people are familiar with brands such as Rolex and Patek Philippe but demand for brands such as Omega, Tudor, Heuer and Panerai are on the rise.

Since modern watches are manufactured in larger quantities, the return on investment is not as sizeable – not now anyway.

Watches that tend to increase in value over the years are as close to their original condition as possible. Variations of an original model are not as valuable.

Let us get into a few top tips that will help you better understand how to invest in a timepiece or two.

Investing in Watches – 7 Pro Tips

1.Look at Brand Reputation

Watch brands that have impressive reputations are far more likely to sell for higher prices later on. Start by looking at the reputation of the watch brands you are considering before you take the next step.

2. Spend Time on Research

Next, spend time looking at watches that have increased in value over the years and consider why. By connecting the dots and looking at why a watch’s value has increased, you can identify similar characteristics in potential timepieces. Some watches just keep their value better than others, Rolex being one of these brands.

3. Mechanical is Better

Mechanical watches tend to have a longer lifespan. Even if a watch has obsolete parts, a professional watch repairer may be able to create identical parts or source similar parts that will keep the timepiece working as it should. Keep in mind that using generic instead of original parts can affect the value of a watch.

4. Limited Edition is Ideal

Limited edition watches almost always increase in value over time. Statement pieces are automatically more sought after and are easier to sell when you are ready to do so. However, you will need to keep the watch in excellent condition if you want it to fetch an impressive price.

5. Service Your Timepiece

The better the condition of the watch, the more valuable it is. If you are going to repair or service a watch, take it to someone who is reputable, qualified and has experience with your brands. If you are going to invest in a timepiece, do a little research to find a reputable repair centre.

6. Insure Your Timepiece

If you are going to spend a decent amount of money on a timepiece or two, make sure that it’s covered by your home insurer. Cover the watch against both theft and damage.  Martins of Glasgow are be able to offer advice with regards to insurance.

7. Practice Patience

If you are going to invest in a watch with the idea that the value will increase in a year or two after your purchase, you may want to reconsider. Most watches will only see a significant increase in value after 5 to 10 years. Investing in watches takes patience.

Investing in timepieces can be exciting and worthwhile. Just make sure that you are only purchasing your watches from reputable dealers. Take your time when making this kind of investment if you want to make it worth your time and money.

How to Remove Watch Links_Martins of Glasgow

A Basic Guide to Removing Watch Links

/in /by

When a watch is first purchased, it’s usually adjusted to fit the wrist of the owner. However, if the owner changes, the links are damaged or the wearer gains or loses weight, the bracelet needs to be adjusted again.

Links can actually be damaged by wearing your watch too tightly to begin with. When a watch is too tight, it places strain on the links, which eventually causes them to break. The solution, adding and removing bracelet links.

The Ideal Bracelet Size

There really is no ideal bracelet size – it’s all about the preference of the owner. Basically, you want the bracelet to be loose enough for you to fit a pen, or similar object, between the watch and your wrist. This will indicate the watch is both secure and comfortable.

Watch Link Removal – A 5-Step Guide

If you feel confident enough to remove watch links at home, these are the steps you should follow:

  1. Measure the Bracelet of Your Watch

Instead of guessing how many links you should remove, measure your watch bracelet first. You can do this by putting your watch on as you normally would. Once you’re happy with its position and it feels comfortable, flip your wrist so that the clasp is facing you.

Next, start grabbing the slack of the bracelet until you’re holding enough links for the watch to feel comfortable on your wrist. The links between your fingertips will tell you how many you need to remove. If you’re not feeling entirely sure, rather start removing one or two at a time until you’re happy with the final fit. Removing links is easier than adding them back.

  1. Grab Your Tools

You will now need a pin pusher, small screwdriver and a hammer – the smaller the better. Find a flat surface that you can work on before you start removing any links.

  1. Start Removing the Necessary Links

Every watch is designed slightly differently in terms of the bracelet so removing links might be different too. Here are some general instructions that you can follow to remove the links:

  • To start, place your watch in your left hand to remove the spring bar on the left of your watch clasp
  • Using the pin pusher, lever the spring bar out. The spring bar is the small bar that holds your watch bracelet in place
  • Next, look out for the arrows on the bracelet links you want to remove. The arrows will show you where to insert the pin pusher tool. Once the pin appears on the other end of the link, pull it out and the link will detach
  • Keep repeating this process to remove all necessary links. Just be sure to remove the links on both sides of the clasp and remove an even number on either side. This is what will keep your watch face centred

  1. Put the Watch Bracelet Back Together

Now you can start putting the pins back in to complete your watch bracelet. To do this, find the arrows again and push the pins in the opposite directions. You may need to use a hammer to tap the pins back in securely.

  1. Reattach the Clasp

Lastly, you will need to reattach the clasp by replacing the spring bar.

DIY or Professional Help?

While removing links from a watch is not overly complex, if you’re worried about damaging your timepiece or don’t have the tools to get the job done, you may want to get help from a professional. Contact us if you require any type of assistance with your favourite timepiece.

Designing Custom Jewellery_Martins of Glasgow

Things You Need to Know About the Custom Jewellery Design Process

/in /by

Most jewellery that has a back story is a custom design. If you’re considering gifting someone with a custom piece that’s unique and can carry its own story from generation to generation, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Engagement rings are one of the most common custom designs and incorporate a mix of different elements, including metal, diamonds, band style and gemstones. Using these elements, it’s possible to create a ring that’s as unique as your relationship.

Why Go the Custom Jewellery Design Route?

Before you go ahead with a custom design, it helps to understand the benefits and trade-offs of going this route.

Let’s start with some of the benefits:

  • Your custom piece will reflect your personal style, interests and values
  • There won’t be any other ring or piece of jewellery quite like yours out there
  • A custom design is a conversation starter for years
  • There’s always the option to create matching rings, necklaces or bracelets

Next, let’s look at the potential trade-offs:

  • A custom design can be slightly pricier, depending on what you want to do
  • If you’re after quite an intricate design, it can take a lot longer to produce a custom piece
  • The process requires a good deal of collaboration but if you’re working with the right designer, this won’t be an issue
  • In many instances, you won’t be able to see or touch the piece until it’s completely finished

Understanding the Custom Jewellery Design Process

The specifics of the process will differ slightly for everyone but here is a general idea of what you can expect:

  • Sketching Your Idea

If you want to go the custom route, it means you should have a design in mind. If you simply want something unique, you can always shop around for something that appeals to you. If you think you can put a basic sketch together, do so before seeing a designer. If you’re not sure that you can accurately sketch a design, you could always describe it to your designer. If you are going this route, make sure that you can accurately describe what you’re looking for.

  • Search for the Right Designer

Next, you want to take your time to find a designer who specialises in the metal, stones and style you’re interested in. If you can, ask for referrals from those who have gone through this process before and are happy with the results. While it’s important for you to get along with a designer, it’s essential that you ask to see their previous work too.

  • Start Collaborating

Now that you have a design and a trusted jewellery designer, you can start discussing a timeline. Before the physical design process starts, make sure that you’ve seen an illustration of what it will look like. If you have any questions during this process, don’t be afraid to ask them. Your designer has several years of knowledge and should be able to give you all the information you need to feel comfortable throughout the process.

  • Ask about Warranties and Guarantees

If you’re going to be working on a custom design, ask your designer to put the details of the design in writing. This should include the elements you agreed on as well as a final appraisal that outlines the design and designer. Lastly, don’t forget to insure your custom piece of jewellery.

The custom jewellery design process doesn’t need to be complicated. Speak to us if you have any additional questions about what to expect.

Watch Water Resistence_Martins of Glasgow

Water-Resistant Watches: An Easy-to-Understand Guide

/in /by

Water-resistance is one of the primary features that watch lovers look for when shopping around for a new or second-hand timepiece. We come into contact with water on a daily basis and buying a water-resistant watch ensures your favourite timepiece won’t be ruined.

Watches that are water-resistant will have a specific rating, which indicates what you can and can’t do with it. Let’s get into the specifics.

Water-Resistant Watches vs. Waterproof Watches

No watch is 100% waterproof, which is why the majority of watches are labelled as water-resistant and have a metre rating.

The difference between a water-resistant timepiece and one that is waterproof is linked to how much water it can be exposed to before it breaks. This aside, almost any watch will break if it’s placed under enough water pressure.

There are a handful of waterproof watches available though, the Rolex Deepsea Challenge being one of them. Even this watch can’t go below 12,000 metres though.

If you want to shop around for a waterproof watch, you might be looking around for a while. Rather look for a good water-resistant piece.

Understanding the Rating of a Water-Resistant Watch

Water-resistant watches will have a depth rating and each watch will be different, depending on the brand and model you choose.

What many people don’t know is that the depth rating is not full proof. It merely means that a watch can be used at its maximum depth for a short period of time. For example, a watch with a depth rating of 100M, can probably only be used a fraction of that rating.

Here’s an idea of what you can and can’t do with your watch based on its water-resistance rating.

  • 50M/165 ft: The most you can do is shower with the watch.
  • 100M/330 ft:You can swim with the watch but only in shallow water.
  • 300M/1000 ft:You can swim in deep water or scuba dive with this watch.
  • 1000M/3000 ft:The watch is ideal for deep sea diving.

If your watch is not water-resistant, it can’t even be exposed to water when cleaning it. The more water-resistant a watch is, the smaller it will be.

Caring for Your Water-Resistant Watch

Once you’ve purchased a water-resistant watch, here’s how you can extend its life:

  • Have the battery changed by a professional. If you have a water-resistant watch, let a professional change the battery so that the seal can be checked. If the seal malfunctions, water will ruin your watch.
  • Rinse your watch after swimming in saltwater. If you’re planning to dive or swim in the sea, rinse your watch in freshwater and dry it thoroughly afterwards. Corrosive salt can ruin your watch if it builds up.
  • Watch your leather strap. If your timepiece has a leather strap, remember that it’s not very resistant to water, so you may want to keep exposure to a minimum.
  • Steam is not ideal. Even if your watch is water-resistant, it’s best to take it off before spending time in a hot sauna. The heat can cause the seal to expand, which will compromise the watch’s protection.

If you notice any water droplets inside your watch, take it to a repair centre as soon as you can. Depending on the extent of the damage, some watches can still be salvaged if water got into the internal mechanisms.

Signs Your Watch is Magnetised_Martins of Glasgow

How to Tell If Your Watch is Magnetised

/in /by

Magnetism is an issue that affects mechanical watches. A significant change in timing is a clear sign that your watch could be magnetised. A watch that started out by running a few seconds faster per day can start running hours faster per day if it’s magnetised.

How Does a Watch Get Magnetised?

It’s actually very easy for a watch to become magnetised. Most of what you do during a normal day as the potential to cause this issue.

For one, appliances and electronic devices can slowly start to magnetise a mechanical watch, including microwaves and computers. Basically, any device that has a strong magnetic field has the ability to magnetise a watch. A watch’s balance spring is the component that’s usually responsible for most of the magnetism.

When a balance spring is magnetised, it causes the watch to oscillate faster, which is when a change in time occurs.

Signs Your Watch is Magnetised

There are two ways that you can tell whether your phone is magnetised. The first is a compass and the second is an application called Lepsi.

If you happen to have a compass at home, set it on a flat table and hold your watch over it. If your watch causes the needle of the compass to move, it’s magnetised.

The Lepsi app is currently only available for iOS. There is an app called Kello for Android devices but it isn’t known to work very well.

If you have an iOS device, download the Lepsi app – it’s completely free. The app provides clear instructions on how to set up the magnetic sensor. Once you start the sensor, place the watch about 1cm away – be sure not to touch the screen. The app will then tell you whether magnetism has been detected.

What to Do If Your Watch is Magnetised

If your watch is magnetised, you will need to fix it. The first option is to send it off to a repair centre such as Martins of Glasgow. It only takes several minutes to demagnetise a watch and it’s an affordable repair too.

The other option is to purchase your own equipment. A demagnetiser is inexpensive but it’s only worthwhile if you have several mechanical watches and want to ensure you can fix them at home whenever you need to. A demagnetiser is also very easy to use. You simply press a button while your watch is placed on top of it.

Do Anti-Magnetic Watches Exist?

Yes, there are several brands that have taken steps to reduce the effects of magnetic fields on their timepieces. One method is to protect the mechanics of the watch with a metal cage. Most of the time this cage is made from soft iron, which keeps the magnetism away from the internal mechanisms. The other way to reduce the effects is to build parts using non-iron materials, which can’t be magnetised as easily.

If you’re interested in purchasing an anti-magnetic watch, Rolex and Omega are two brands that make them. If you already have a collection of watches you love, magnetism isn’t a cause for concern and can easily be corrected.