When the Eco-Drive watch stops, what should be done to restart it?
Expose the Eco-Drive to the light. Your Eco-Drive watch will charge in one third of the time if you pull out the crown while charging under normal charging conditions. The amount of charging time required varies depending on model and light conditions. Estimates are detailed in your instruction book.
The second hand jumps in 2-second intervals. Why?
This is the Insufficient Charge Warning feature, and indicates the battery is not yet charged enough. Once the battery is fully charged, the second hand will resume normal operation.
The second hand moves at irregular intervals, such as 1-second, 1-second and 2-second. What does this mean?
This is the Time Setting Warning feature. The irregular interval movement indicates that the time shown is incorrect because the watch stopped once then started again. After recharging and adjusting your watch, the second hand will resume normal operation.
The second hand runs very quickly, then resume normal operation. Why?
Eco-Drive watches with the Power Saving feature stop the second hand to save energy when away from light (in the dark, a drawer or under sleeves, for example). Once exposed to light, the hands move very quickly to catch up to the correct time, which has been tracked internally by the watch.
Can Eco-Drive watches be recharged under fluorescent lamps?
Yes. As long as the dial is exposed to light regularly, the watch rarely stops.
Does recharging time vary with the seasons?
Yes. Recharging varies according to the illuminance from the source of light: in winter the required time for recharging is longer than summer, because the illuminance of the sun is weaker. Also, in winter, watches tend to be kept under sleeves of overcoats or thick jackets that hinder the absorption of light energy. We recommend you expose your Eco-Drive to the sunlight from time to time.
What are the life spans of solar cells and rechargeable cells?
According to our data, both solar and rechargeable cells will last more than 10 years. It is speculated that initial capacities may wane up to 20 per cent over 20 years; however, we do not expect this to interfere with the use of the watch.
Eco-Drive watches do not need batteries replaced. Does this mean Eco-Drive watches are completely maintenance free?
With regard to water resistant models: in order to maintain the water resistance quality, we recommend you replace the gaskets in regular intervals. Gaskets age and deteriorate while being used or even just in storage. The gears in watches also wear little by little. Therefore, regular maintenance by qualified watchmakers or authorised service centres is recommended in order to extend the life of your watch.
What is the Power Save function?
The solar cells stop generating electricity if a lack of light energy occurs. In order to avoid losing energy, the second hand stops at the position of 12 o'clock. In some models both the minute and second hands stop (Power Save 1 mode). When light falls on the dial, the watch will resume normal operation. If lacking light energy for three days, the calendar will also stop to further minimise energy loss (Power Save 2 mode). As before, once light is available to the dial again, the watch will resume normal operation. Please consult the instruction manual for your particular watch, as this function varies between models. If an Eco-Drive watch will be stored for a long time, all hands and the calendar can be stopped manually (Manual Power Save mode). In this mode, the watch will not resume normal operation even when the dial receives light. * In all the Power Save modes, the watch tracks time internally. * Functions vary depending on the models. For further information, please see your instruction booklet.
Why has the battery completely run down soon after the purchase?
Except for Eco-Drive models, batteries are installed in new watches before shipment in order to check functions work properly as designed. Therefore, batteries may have been in use for a considerable time prior to the watch purchase.
How do I care for the band on my Watch?
Metal bands
Will retain their beauty for a long time if proper care is exercised; however, occasional cleaning may be necessary as dust and dirt accumulate from everyday wear. To clean, first remove the metal bracelet from the watch, then use a soft brush and warm soapy water to clean the bracelet. Be sure to thoroughly rinse the metal bracelet with clear water and completely dry it before reinstalling it on your watch. If the bracelet cannot be removed easily from your watch and your model is classified as a 50-meter (or higher) water resistant model and has been properly maintained, you may wash the bracelet without removing it. If your timepiece is classified as less than 50-meter water resistant, or is not a water resistant model, we suggest you take your watch to your local jeweler or send it to the nearest Authorized Citizen Service Center for professional cleaning of the exterior.
Leather bands
Are more susceptible to damage and premature wear from moisture than a metal bracelet. A leather band may be damaged or exhibit accelerated wear if moisture or perspiration is allowed to remain on or saturate the band. Wipe both the inside and outside of your strap daily with a soft dry cloth to remove collected contaminants. If your strap becomes saturated with moisture either from water or perspiration, be sure to allow the strap to completely dry before wearing the watch again. You should also inspect the buckle and pin connections to ensure the moisture has not loosened any connections on the strap that could result in loss of your timepiece.
Rubber Watch band
Are sensitive to perspiration, salt water, and oil, which are easily absorbed and can cause the strap to crack and then break - so, periodic cleaning is recommended. Using an old soft toothbrush and a mild dish detergent and water, thoroughly cleanse the inside and outside of the strap. Completely rinse off any soap residue and then thoroughly dry the strap. If you expose your strap to salt water, be sure to rinse it with clear water as soon as possible. A rubber protectant may also be used to keep the strap pliable and extend lifespan.
The watch got foggy inside the glass. What kind of care is required?
When drops of moisture are on the glass surface, the inside can become foggy. This phenomenon is caused by the water outside on the glass cooling the inner air under the glass, and causing condensation. If the condensation dissipates a couple of minutes after the glass surface is dried, there is no concern. However, if the watch stays foggy for a longer time, there may be trouble with water sealing. Examination by an authorised service centre is strongly recommended.
Is it possible to wash a water-resistant 10-bar watch with tap water?
Yes. You can wash it with tap water.
What are the differences between WR200 (water resistant 20 bar) and Divers 200M watches?
Divers 200M watches are designed to rugged ISO specifications for diving, while WR200 watches are designed for the people who encounter water frequently, in leisure or sport boating for example. In comparison with WR200 watches, Divers 200M watches go through more severe water-resistance tests before shipment.
How frequently should the watch gaskets be replaced?
Gaskets in your watch deteriorate as they age and damage to the sealing can allow water to intrude. When changing batteries at authorised service centers, gaskets are also replaced in order to maintain good water resistance. However, as Eco-Drive watches do not require battery changes, we recommend you replace the gaskets at regular intervals, once every two or three years. Please consult our authorised service centre in your country for further information such as the repair procedure or the cost.
When is a Leap Second introduced?
A Leap Second is introduced in order to adjust the time difference between the uniform time defined by atomic clocks using the frequency of the Cesium atom, and the Earth's actual rotational time. The International Earth Rotation Service (IERS) decides when to introduce a leap second in UTC (Co-ordinated Universal Time, the international time standard). Because the Earth's rotational time varies, a leap second is not introduced regularly; first priority is given to the opportunities at the end of December and June, while the second priority is to opportunities at the end of March and September. Please note that when a leap second is introduced, your watch (unless radio-controlled) becomes one second ahead of UTC. (If needed, please make an adjustment.)
Why is IIII used for indicating 4 o'clock instead of IV on the watch dial?
It is said that the origin of this tradition goes back to the year 1364, in Paris. When the then French king, Charles V, saw the numeral IV on the tower clock at his palace, he disliked the Roman numeral, which seemed to him like 5 minus 1. He immediately ordered to change the IV to IIII. Since then, using IIII on the dial/face has become the standard among watchmakers. This is one of the rarely known episodes in our history.
