Vivienne Westwood Watches Care Water Resistance & Battery Guide
This is a supporting guide to our main Vivienne Westwood Watches Brand Guide. It focuses specifically on practical care requirements, water resistance limitations, and battery servicing considerations.
1 | Water Resistance: What the Ratings Mean
Water resistance ratings are tested under controlled laboratory conditions using static pressure. Real-world exposure involves movement, temperature changes, and chemical contact.
3 ATM (30 metres)
Rated for accidental splashes and light rain only. The watch should not be submerged. The "metres" figure does not mean the watch can go to that depth.
5 ATM (50 metres)
Rated for brief contact with water such as hand washing. Not suitable for swimming, diving, or high-pressure water exposure.
Why Water Resistance Degrades
Synthetic gaskets that seal the caseback and crown degrade through normal ageing, chemical exposure, and temperature fluctuations. Hot water causes differential expansion that can allow moisture to reach the movement. Gaskets should be inspected during routine battery servicing.
2 | PVD Coating Care
Gold-tone, rose gold-tone, and gunmetal finishes are applied using Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD). While more resistant to peeling than traditional electroplating, PVD coatings are vulnerable to chemical and abrasive damage.
Care Rules
- Remove watch before applying perfumes, lotions, hairsprays, and cleaning products
- If accidental saltwater contact occurs, rinse briefly under fresh water and dry thoroughly
- Clean with a soft, dry cloth only — avoid chemical cleaners and ultrasonic cleaning
- PVD wear is most likely on bracelet clasps and case edges
3 | Leather Strap Care
Leather straps will naturally darken, soften, and change character over time. This is expected behaviour, not a defect.
Care Tips
Avoid water contact (causes swelling and distortion). Avoid chemical contact (breaks down natural oils). Apply leather protector before first wear. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
Important Note
Leather straps are consumable components and are not covered by the manufacturer's warranty. Choose mesh or link bracelet models for longer durability.
4 | Battery Replacement
Allowing a depleted battery to remain in the watch poses a risk — silver-oxide batteries can leak corrosive potassium hydroxide that damages the circuit board.
| Movement | Battery | Typical Life |
|---|---|---|
| Miyota 2035 | SR626SW (377) | ~36 months |
| Miyota Super 2035 | SR626SW (377) | ~4 years |
| Ronda 515 | SR920SW (371) | Varies |
| Ronda 763 | SR621SW (364) | Varies |
During a battery change, gaskets should be inspected and lubricated with silicone grease to maintain moisture resistance. Battery replacement is not covered by warranty (consumable component).
5 | Bracelet Maintenance
Solid Link Bracelets
Clean periodically with a soft brush to remove debris from between links. Debris accumulation can cause skin irritation.
Folded Link Bracelets
Avoid wearing too loosely — sustained movement between folded plates accelerates wear on connection pins.
6 | Care Summary
Quick Reference
- Water resistance: 3–5 ATM — splash and rain only, not swimming. Seals degrade over time
- PVD finishes: Dry cloth only. Avoid perfume, chemicals, and saltwater
- Leather straps: Keep dry, avoid chemicals. Not warranty-covered
- Batteries: Replace promptly when depleted. Professional service recommended
- Bracelets: Clean between links periodically
- Gaskets: Inspect during every battery service
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