BANDS / BRACELETS – (METAL, LEATHER, POLYURETHANE)
Ø Metal Bands/Bracelets (Colour plated): Seiko has many yellow gold, rose gold, black and other colour plated watches – both case and band. There is only a thin ion plating on the metal base which can go off over a period of time, metal base colour becoming visible - sooner if it is not maintained carefully. No company can give a guarantee to a customer that this colour would last for a specific period of time. Neither do Seiko. So very careful usage of these kinds of watches is an absolute necessity.
Ø Stainless Steel Bands/Bracelets:
In bad user conditions, even a stainless steel band can rust.
Stainless steel contains chromium which forms an oxidized coating on the
surface if it is in contact with oxygen. This protects the surface from
rusting.
The accumulation of dirt or sweat on the surface on stainless steel can block the surface from forming an oxidized coating and the surface can rust easily. So always keep the watch clean and tidy.
Ø Leather Bands/Straps: Leather strap bands made of natural leather can be easily influenced by water/perspiration/stain. Sometimes leather straps themselves get torn off or strap colours fade. Constant care is required, taking the way of usage into consideration as no manufacturer can provide guarantee for leather straps.
Ø Polyurethane Bands:
These are made of soft plastic that may turn hard after 2-3 year’s use. Colour
fading can also be seen. If bands are kept wet and in highly humid locations or
are exposed to sunlight for a long time, the deterioration of the bands may be
accelerated in a relatively short period and some cracks may appear on the band
surface. (This is called ‘hydrolytic cleavage of polyurethane’) Kindly pay
attention to the condition of polyurethane bands, which are often worn in such
occasions as marine sports/outdoor activities.
Your watch is in constant contact with your skin. Wipe off moisture, sweat or dirt by gently rubbing the case and band with a soft, dry cloth every day and keep it in a well ventilated place.
Related Articles
MECHANICAL WATCHES – AUTOMATIC AND WINDING
The power source of a mechanical watch is the unwinding force of a Main Spring which moves the hands while the internal wheels are controlled by the precise rotational motion of a balance regulator which is acting like a pendulum. When the crown is ...WATER RESISTANCE
Usage precautions for a water resistant watch Ø Do not wear your watch while bathing or in a sauna. Steam, soap or some components of a hot spring may cause the metal used in the watch to discolour and deteriorate. This will also accelerate the ...