Overview: Magnetism & Watches

Magnetic fields are invisible, but their effects on watches are very real. As I often tell people  “You don’t see magnetism coming, but you’ll sure see it in your watch’s accuracy.”

Traditional watches, especially mechanical ones, have tiny steel parts that can easily pick up magnetism. Once that happens, timing goes out the window.

How Watches Work

Mechanical watches

Mechanical watches rely on a delicate balance wheel and hairspring. If that hairspring gets magnetized, its coils can stick together. That’s where most of the trouble begins.

Quartz watches

Quartz watches are a bit tougher when it comes to magnetism, but they’re not bulletproof. The little motor that drives the hands can get thrown off if the field is strong enough.

What Happens When a Watch Gets Magnetized

When someone mentions their watch is suddenly running minutes fast per day, my first thought is magnetism. Here’s why:

• Hairspring coils stick: In mechanical watches, magnetism makes the coils cling together, so the watch ticks faster than it should.
• Erratic timing: Accuracy goes out the window — fast, slow, or just plain unpredictable.
• Quartz issues: In quartz watches, the motor can struggle, making the seconds hand act strangely.

Common Sources of Magnetic Fields

I always tell people: “Your watch’s worst enemy might be sitting right on your desk or in your pocket.” Some everyday culprits include:

• Smartphone speakers and magnetic cases
• Laptop speakers and magnetic charging accessories
• Headphones and earbuds
• Magnetic clasp jewelry and handbag closures
• Microwaves and induction cooktops
• Power tools and electric motors
• Magnetic phone mounts in cars

Symptoms: Is My Watch Magnetized?

Here’s the kicker, magnetism usually makes a watch run fast. If your watch is suddenly gaining minutes every day, chances are it’s magnetized. Some telltale signs include:

• Running several minutes fast or slow daily
• Seconds hand jumps, stutters, or sticks (mechanical watches)
• Big accuracy changes right after being near electronics or magnets

“If your watch was keeping perfect time yesterday and it’s going haywire today, blame magnetism first.”

How to Test for Magnetization

You don’t need fancy tools to confirm it. Try these:

• Compass test: Hold a compass near your watch. If the needle swings, your watch is magnetized.
• Behavior check: If your watch speeds up after hanging out next to your phone or a speaker, that’s a clue.
• Watchmaker test: A quick stop at a watch shop will confirm it in seconds.

How to Demagnetize a Watch

The good news? Fixing a magnetized watch is usually easy.

• Professional demagnetizer: A watchmaker can demagnetize your watch in under a minute.
• DIY tools: Affordable demagnetizers exist for home use. Just follow the directions carefully.
• Replacement (rare): If parts are damaged, a hairspring or component swap may be needed — but that’s unusual.

Prevention & Best Practices

Here’s how I personally keep my watches safe from magnetism:

• Never set my watch directly on a speaker or laptop.
• Keep it away from phone mounts with strong magnets.
• Use a protective watch box when traveling.
• Look for watches with antimagnetic certifications if magnetism is a regular risk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can a quartz watch be magnetized?

A: Yes. Quartz is less sensitive than mechanical, but strong fields can still throw off the little motor inside.

Q: Why do magnetized mechanical watches usually run fast?

A: Because the hairspring coils stick, making the balance wheel swing too quickly.

Q: How much does demagnetizing cost?

A: Most watchmakers will do it for a small fee, sometimes even free if you’re already in for a service.

Q: Is demagnetizing safe?

A: Totally safe. It’s a standard, non-invasive fix that watchmakers do every day.

Q: Can I prevent magnetism completely?

A: Not entirely, but you can cut your risk way down by keeping your watch away from obvious magnets and storing it properly.

Conclusion

Magnetism is one of those watch problems that feels mysterious, but once you understand it, it’s easy to handle. Mechanical watches suffer the most, quartz a little less, but both can be affected.

As I always tell fellow enthusiasts: “Don’t freak out if your watch runs fast, just think magnets first.” A quick demagnetization can bring your watch back to life in seconds. Something else going on with your watch? Download the VELOCE APP - The app for for watch enthusiasts. 

Take care of your watch, and it’ll take care of your time.

— Nick at VELOCE