Push-in crown
Press the crown fully back into its normal position against the case before exposing the watch to water.
Everyday care
Although Christophe Duchamp watches are made using durable materials, they should still be treated with care.
Guidance
- Avoid knocks, drops and heavy impacts.
- Remove the watch before activities that may expose it to strong vibration or repeated impact.
- Keep the watch away from strong magnetic fields where possible.
- Avoid exposing the watch to extreme temperatures or rapid temperature changes.
- Do not allow perfumes, cosmetics, solvents or cleaning chemicals to come into prolonged contact with the watch.
- Store the watch somewhere clean and dry when it is not being worn.
- Avoid placing the watch face-down on hard surfaces.
Materials information
Christophe Duchamp watches may include:
- 316L stainless-steel cases and bracelets
- Sapphire crystal
- FKM rubber straps
- Italian leather straps
Sapphire crystal offers strong scratch resistance, but it is not unbreakable and can still be damaged by a sufficiently hard impact.
Water resistance and the crown
Water resistance differs between models, so always check the rating shown on the product page, caseback or supporting documentation for your particular watch.
3 ATM
5 ATM
10 ATM
20 ATM
Before contact with water
- Make sure the crown is fully secured.
- On a push-in crown, press it fully back into its normal position.
- On a screw-down crown, carefully screw it back into the case until secure.
- Check that all pushers are in their normal position where applicable.
- Do not operate the crown or pushers while the watch is in water.
Important points
- Water resistance is not a permanent condition and may reduce over time.
- Knocks, ageing seals and previous repairs can affect water resistance.
- Avoid exposing the watch to hot water, steam, saunas or sudden temperature changes.
- Leather straps should be kept away from water wherever possible.
- Water resistance should not be treated as permission to use every watch for swimming or diving.
- Always follow the water-resistance rating of the individual model.
Screw-down crown
Carefully press and turn the crown until it is securely tightened against the case before exposing the watch to water.
Cleaning the watch
Regular gentle cleaning will help remove dust, fingerprints and everyday residue.
General cleaning
- Wipe the watch with a clean, soft, lint-free cloth.
- Do not use abrasive cloths, brushes or household cleaning products.
- Do not use solvents, alcohol-based products or harsh chemicals.
- Avoid spraying perfume or cosmetics directly onto the watch.
Stainless-steel case and bracelet
- Use a soft, slightly damp cloth to remove light marks.
- Dry the watch thoroughly afterwards.
- Pay attention to the spaces between bracelet links, where dirt may collect.
- Avoid abrasive polishing products, which can alter polished or brushed finishes.
Sapphire crystal
- Gently wipe the crystal with a clean microfibre cloth.
- For more persistent marks, use a lightly dampened cloth before drying it carefully.
- Do not use sharp objects to remove residue.
FKM rubber strap
- Wipe the strap with a soft damp cloth.
- Remove sweat, dust and residue after frequent wear.
- Dry it fully before putting the watch away.
- Avoid aggressive detergents and chemical cleaners.
Italian leather strap
- Wipe gently with a clean, dry cloth.
- Keep it away from water, excessive moisture, perfume and cosmetics.
- Allow the strap to dry naturally if it becomes damp.
- Do not place it on a radiator or use direct heat.
- Natural variation and gradual changes in appearance are normal characteristics of leather.
Straps and bracelets
Stainless-steel bracelets
- Keep the bracelet clean and dry.
- Avoid forcing or bending the links.
- Have bracelet sizing and link adjustments completed carefully using the correct tools.
- Check the clasp periodically to make sure it closes securely.
FKM rubber straps
- Clean away sweat and residue after wear.
- Avoid prolonged contact with strong chemicals, oils or solvents.
- Check regularly for signs of damage around the buckle and spring-bar areas.
Italian leather straps
- Leather naturally develops character through wear.
- Avoid soaking the strap or wearing it for swimming.
- Rotate straps where possible to allow the leather to rest.
- Do not fasten the strap more tightly than necessary.
- Avoid repeatedly bending the strap sharply in the same place.
Changing a strap
If you are comfortable changing straps, follow these steps:
- Work on a clean, soft surface.
- Use a suitable watch or spring-bar tool.
- Protect the case from scratching.
- Check that both ends of the spring bar are properly engaged before wearing the watch.
If you are unsure, use a professional watch or jewellery service.
Setting and operating the watch
General guidance:
- Handle the crown gently.
- Do not force the crown, pushers or date mechanism.
- Follow the instructions supplied for the individual movement and model.
- Make sure the crown is returned to its normal secured position after setting the time or date.
- Avoid adjusting complications when resistance is felt.
- Seek assistance rather than forcing any component.
One set of detailed time, date or chronograph-setting instructions should not be used across the full range because movements and functions differ between models.
Battery and servicing
A fixed routine servicing interval is not recommended.
When to arrange a service
Your watch does not need to be serviced according to a fixed schedule. If it stops, loses time noticeably, develops condensation or no longer operates as expected, please contact Christophe Duchamp or a qualified watch professional for advice.
For battery-powered watches
- Have the battery replaced when the watch stops or begins to operate irregularly.
- Do not leave a depleted battery inside the watch for an unnecessarily long period.
- Battery replacement should be completed by a suitable professional.
- Seals and water resistance may need to be checked after the case has been opened.
Condensation or water inside the watch
If condensation remains beneath the crystal or water appears to have entered the watch, stop using it and seek professional assistance as soon as possible. Do not attempt to dry the watch using direct heat.
Do not
- Use a hairdryer.
- Place the watch on a radiator.
- Open the case at home.
- Continue operating the crown or pushers.
A light mist that disappears immediately after a sharp temperature change may differ from persistent condensation, but any continuing moisture should be inspected.
Storage
When the watch is not being worn:
- Store it somewhere clean and dry.
- Use its box or a soft watch pouch where possible.
- Keep it away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Avoid storing it loose beside jewellery or hard objects that may scratch it.
- Make sure leather straps are dry before storage.
- Do not leave the watch resting face-down.
When to contact Christophe Duchamp
Seek help if:
- The watch stops unexpectedly.
- It is gaining or losing a noticeable amount of time.
- The crown or pushers feel loose, stiff or damaged.
- There is persistent condensation beneath the crystal.
- Water may have entered the case.
- The clasp or strap attachment does not feel secure.
- The crystal, case, bracelet or strap has suffered significant impact.
- You are uncertain about the operation of the watch.
Frequently asked questions
Is my Christophe Duchamp watch waterproof?
No watch should be described as completely waterproof. Christophe Duchamp watches have model-specific water-resistance ratings. Check the specifications of your watch and make sure the crown is properly secured before contact with water.
Can I swim while wearing my watch?
This depends on the water-resistance rating of the individual model. Do not swim with the watch unless its stated rating is suitable for that activity. Leather straps should be kept away from water.
Can I shower while wearing my watch?
We would not recommend it. Hot water, steam, soaps and sudden temperature changes can affect seals and watch materials.
What is the difference between a push-in and screw-down crown?
A push-in crown is pressed back into its normal position against the case. A screw-down crown must be gently pressed and turned until it is securely screwed into the case.
Can I use the crown or pushers underwater?
No. The crown and pushers should not be operated while the watch is submerged or wet.
How should I clean my watch?
Use a soft, lint-free cloth. A slightly damp cloth can be used on suitable stainless-steel, sapphire-crystal and FKM surfaces, followed by thorough drying. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive products.
How should I clean a leather strap?
Use a soft, dry cloth. Keep leather away from water, cleaning chemicals, perfume and excessive moisture. Allow it to dry naturally if it becomes damp.
Is sapphire crystal scratch-proof?
Sapphire crystal is highly scratch-resistant, but it is not completely scratch-proof or impact-proof.
How often should my watch be serviced?
There is no fixed servicing schedule being recommended. Seek advice if the watch stops, performs irregularly, develops condensation or is damaged.
Who should replace the battery?
A suitable watch professional should replace the battery. Opening the case may affect seals and water resistance, so these should be checked as appropriate.
Can I change the strap myself?
Yes, where the strap design allows it and you are comfortable using the correct tools. Work on a soft surface and make sure the spring bars are fully secured before wearing the watch.
What should I do if moisture appears inside the watch?
Stop using it and contact Christophe Duchamp or a suitable watch professional promptly. Do not apply direct heat or open the case yourself.
