How to Change the Date on a Longines Watch: A Step-by-Step Guide

Longines watches are known for their elegance, precision, and durability. Whether you own a classic model or a more modern design, maintaining your Longines watch involves knowing how to properly adjust its date feature. This guide will walk you through the process of changing the date on your Longines watch, ensuring that you do so correctly and avoid potential damage to the mechanism.

Understanding the Date Mechanism

Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand how the date mechanism works on your Longines watch. Most Longines watches use a mechanical or automatic movement, which means the date change is synchronized with the movement of the hands. The date typically changes around midnight, and there’s a specific period during which you should avoid making manual adjustments to prevent damaging the internal gears.

When Not to Change the Date

One of the most crucial aspects of changing the date on your Longines watch is timing. The date should not be adjusted between 9 PM and 3 AM. During this time, the date change mechanism is engaged, and manually changing the date could cause the gears to misalign, leading to potential damage or an inaccurate date display.

Tools You’ll Need

• A clean, soft cloth to work on
• A watch tool or a non-metallic object to gently pull out the crown

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Date

1. Place the Watch on a Soft Surface: Begin by placing your Longines watch face up on a clean, soft cloth. This will prevent any scratches or damage to the watch while you work.

2. Locate the Crown: The crown is the small knob usually found on the side of the watch case. This is used to adjust the time and date.

3. Pull the Crown Out to the First Position: Gently pull the crown out to the first click. This position is typically used to adjust the date. Be careful not to pull the crown out too far, as the second position is used for adjusting the time.

4. Rotate the Crown: Turn the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to change the date. The direction may vary depending on the model, so refer to your watch’s manual if you’re unsure.

5. Set the Date: Rotate the crown until the correct date is displayed. If you need to move the date forward, do so by continuing to rotate the crown in the same direction. To move the date backward, reverse the direction.

6. Push the Crown Back In: Once the correct date is set, push the crown back in to its original position. Ensure it is fully secured to maintain the watch’s water resistance.

7. Check the Time: After adjusting the date, check that the time is also set correctly, especially if you’ve had to adjust the hour hand during the process.

What to Do If the Date Doesn’t Change

If you notice that the date on your Longines watch isn’t changing at midnight or seems stuck, there might be a more serious issue at hand. This could indicate a problem with the internal mechanism, and it’s advisable to have your watch inspected by a professional watchmaker or sent to Longines for servicing.

Maintaining Your Longines Watch

Proper maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and accuracy of your Longines watch. Here are a few tips to keep your watch in optimal condition:

• Regular Servicing: Longines recommends having your watch serviced every 4 to 5 years. Regular servicing will ensure that the internal mechanism is clean, lubricated, and free of wear.
• Avoid Magnetic Fields: Keep your watch away from strong magnetic fields, as these can affect the accuracy of the movement.
• Water Resistance Check: If your Longines watch is water-resistant, have it checked annually to ensure the seals are intact and the watch is safe to wear while swimming or diving.
• Store Properly: When not in use, store your watch in a cool, dry place, preferably in a watch box or a case that protects it from dust and moisture.

Common Date Adjustment Mistakes

1. Adjusting the Date During the “Danger Zone”
As mentioned earlier, the period between 9 PM and 3 AM is critical. Adjusting the date during this time can cause the date mechanism to jam or misalign, leading to expensive repairs.

2. Using Excessive Force
When pulling out the crown or adjusting the date, it’s important to be gentle. Excessive force can damage the crown or the internal gears, making the watch difficult to repair.

3. Forgetting to Push the Crown Back In
After adjusting the date, always ensure the crown is pushed back in. Leaving it in the open position can compromise the watch’s water resistance and may cause dust or moisture to enter the case.

Conclusion

Changing the date on your Longines watch is a simple process that, when done correctly, ensures your timepiece remains accurate and in good working condition. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently adjust the date on your watch without fear of damaging the delicate internal mechanism. Remember, when in doubt, consult your watch’s manual or take it to a professional for assistance. Proper care and maintenance will keep your Longines watch functioning beautifully for years to come.