How to adjust the calendar of a mechanical watch

Have you recently purchased a mechanical watch and found that the calendar isn't quite accurate? Or maybe you've had your watch for some time and the calendar isn't keeping up with the correct dates? Don't fret - adjusting the calendar of a mechanical watch is a simple process that anyone can do at home. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to adjust the calendar of your mechanical watch, ensuring it stays accurate for months and years to come.

Gathering the right tools

Before you begin adjusting the calendar of your mechanical watch, it's important to have the right tools at hand. To avoid damaging the watch or its components, you'll need a few essential items. Firstly, you'll need a case back opener to safely access the inner workings of the watch. You'll also need a non-magnetic precision screwdriver set to make precise adjustments without causing any harm to the delicate components inside. Additionally, a pair of tweezers and a soft cloth will come in handy to handle small parts and keep the watch clean throughout the process.

Understanding the movement type

When it comes to adjusting the calendar of a mechanical watch, it's crucial to understand the type of movement your watch has. There are generally two types of movements – manual and automatic. Manual movement watches require regular winding by hand, while automatic movement watches are powered by the natural motion of the wearer's arm. It's important to know which type of movement your watch has, as the adjustment process may vary slightly between the two.

Adjusting the date

Once you've gathered the necessary tools and identified the movement type of your watch, it's time to start adjusting the calendar. The first step is to adjust the date on your mechanical watch. Begin by pulling out the crown (the small knob on the side of the watch) to its outermost position. This will allow you to turn the crown and adjust the date wheel. Carefully advance the date by turning the crown clockwise until the correct date is displayed. Be sure to avoid adjusting the date when the watch is between the hours of 9 pm and 3 am, as this is the period when the date change mechanism is active and attempting to adjust the date during this time may cause damage to the watch.

Correcting the day and month

After adjusting the date, the next step is to correct the day and month on your mechanical watch. To adjust the day, continue pulling the crown outwards until it reaches the second or third position. Then, turn the crown clockwise to advance the day until the correct day is displayed. If your watch also features a month display, you can adjust it by pulling the crown out to the same position and turning it clockwise to set the correct month. Once again, it's important to avoid attempting these adjustments between the hours of 9 pm and 3 am to prevent damage to the watch's internal mechanisms.

Ensuring accuracy and reliability

After adjusting the calendar of your mechanical watch, it's important to ensure that it stays accurate and reliable over time. One way to do this is to periodically check the calendar for accuracy, particularly at the end of months with fewer than 31 days. If necessary, make minor adjustments to keep the calendar in sync with the actual date. Additionally, it's important to handle your watch with care and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or magnetic fields, as these can affect the accuracy of the calendar and other functions of the watch. By following these simple steps and taking proper care of your mechanical watch, you can ensure that its calendar remains accurate and reliable for years to come.

In conclusion, adjusting the calendar of a mechanical watch is a straightforward process that anyone can do with the right tools and a little patience. By gathering the necessary tools, understanding the movement type, and following the proper steps to adjust the date, day, and month, you can keep your watch's calendar accurate and reliable. Remember to handle your watch with care and periodically check its accuracy to ensure that the calendar stays in sync with the actual date. With these tips in mind, you can maintain the accuracy and reliability of your mechanical watch's calendar for years to come.