Advice on keeping your timepiece in good working order
Magnetism :
With so many devices in use, magnetic and electromagnetic fields are becoming increasingly present in the world around us, and this magnetism can affect watch performance.
To avoid any magnetic interference, we recommend that you keep yourwatch away from any devices, which could emit magnetic fields (e.g. mobilephones, computers, refrigerators, speakers, magnetic doors, television sets).
It is also strongly advised that you remove your watch before walking through airport security checkpoints.
Water resistance :
Information on water resistance relates to pressure measurements taken in the workshop, not at actual depths.
As the gaskets have a limited lifespan, we recommend that you do notwear your watch in the shower. Powerful water jets hitting the push-pieces orthe crowns could cause water ingress.
We recommend that you have the water resistance of your watch checked every two years. If you live in an area where the climate is particularly humid, we recommend checking the water resistance more frequently (every year).
Setting the time:
As indicated in the user manuals, we recommend that you do not set the time on your quartz watch between 21:00 and 03:00.
For mechanical watches (hand-wound or self-winding), it is recommended that you avoid using the crown when the date is in the process of changing (between approximately 23:50 and 00:10).
Swimming in the sea and in pools
Always rinse your watch in fresh water after you have been swimming (inthe sea or pool).
Temperatures
The mechanism on your watch is guaranteed to work correctly between-20°C and +60°C. Outside this temperature range, your watch will be less accurate. You are also recommended to avoid thermal shocks that could damage your watch, or certain parts of your watch, such as the crystal, which could break.
Excessive temperatures also affect the oils in the movements: very low temperatures make them less fluid, while very hot temperatures make them prone to dry out more quickly. It is therefore recommended that you have your watch serviced more frequently in hot climates.
Avoid sudden changes in temperature. After a sharp change in temperature, some condensation may appear under the crystal of your watch. This condensation should disappear after a few minutes and does not affect the performance of your timepiece. If the condensation does not disappear, please contact your nearest approved Bell & Ross center.
Exposure to sunlight
Prolonged exposure to sunlight may alter the colour rendering of your watch (discolouration of the dial, hands and strap). It may also alter the gaskets.
Chemical products
Chemical products (e.g. solvents, detergents, cosmetics) can damage the straps and gaskets on your watch, thereby impairing its water resistance.
Straps
It is normal for leather straps to develop a patina over time. To preserve them, you are recommended to keep them away from water.
To maintain your metal strap, use a small brush and soapy water, then dry with a soft cloth.
Always rinse your rubber strap thoroughly after swimming, as salt water or chlorinated water can affect the flexibility of the rubber strap, making it brittle.
Impacts
To keep your watch in good working order, avoid any major shocks or vibrations.
Avoid dropping ceramic watches. In fact, although ceramic is a highly scratch-resistant material, a major shock (such as the impact caused by dropping it) could break the case.
Crown and push-pieces
Ensure that the crown and push-pieces on your watch are always completely screwed in, or in the neutral position, as this guarantees the water resistance of your watch. It is therefore strongly recommended that you do not use these components under water.
If your watch is equipped with a crown with a double gasket, ensure that the crown is fully pushed in, and in the neutral position.
SPECIAL FINISHES
PVD
PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) is a surface treatment used to apply colour to a metal case, which means that any shock or friction can change or damage the appearance of your watch.
Argentium®
On Argentium® watches, a normal oxidation effect may appear, as on any item made from silver, although the Argentium® alloy slows down oxidation.
Bronze
Bronze is the oldest metal harnessed by man. It oxidises on contact with air and humidity, forming a layer which can vary from dark brown to greyish green (verdigris). This surface protects the core of the metal, as shown by the bronzes – dating back several thousand years – which have been unearthed by archaeologists.
The patina process starts as soon as the metal is cast into bars. Machining parts exposes the metal core, which itself begins to develop a surface patina.
The patina will vary, and develop at different speeds, depending on the humidity and salinity of the air, the ambient temperature, and the acidity of the skin.
Carbone Forgé®
Carbone Forgé® is a very lightweight material with exceptional mechanical properties. Although it is harder than steel or titanium, Carbone Forgé® is still susceptible to scratches.
The BR-X1 Carbone Forgé® has been built so that the titanium container is water-resistant. The two components made from Carbone Forgé® protect this case.