FAQ’s
General Information
The following information may assist you with proper use and maintenance of your Philip Stein timepiece and accessories, allowing you to enjoy them and ensure their reliability over time.
Q: How long should the battery last?
A: Battery life in Philip Stein quartz watches vary. Depending on model, estimated lifespan is approximately 18 months. Batteries are not covered under the warranty; however, if the timepiece is still within its 2 year warranty period, replacement of batteries is required to be done by a Philip Stein Authorized Repair Center.
Q: I have a scratch on my watch crystal (glass). How can I have it repaired?
A: Most Philip Stein watches feature Curved Sapphire Coated Mineral Crystals. While no watch crystals are scratch or shatter proof, sapphire coated crystals offer added protection from both. Full sapphire crystals offer the highest level of resistance available, however, are still not impervious to damage.
Our current models featuring full sapphire crystals are in the Modern Collection, Prestige Collection, the Sport Rubber Chronograph from the Signature Collection, and all Gold watches from any past collection. Watches from the Prestige collection feature Double Curved Sapphire Crystals with Anti-Reflecting coatings on the Top and Bottom of the crystal. The Anti-Reflective coating will allow you to view your watch dial more easily, without glare from lighting or reflection from the dial.
Crystal Replacements can be performed by any of our Authorized Repair Centers. Please visit our store locator section for a listing of facilities near you.
Q: How should I clean my watch?
A: It is recommended to keep the amount of buildup that can accumulate in the creases of the watch and stainless steel bracelet to a minimum. Avoid direct contact with water by using a damp soft cloth and soft toothbrush with mild soap (without fragrances or moisturizers). Be sure to have the crown in its home position when performing the cleaning. Failing to do so may cause moisture to enter the case. Dry the watch and bracelet completely with a soft dry cloth when finished. Keep the watch away from cleaning agents, perfumes, cosmetics and other solvents as these products can cause damage to the bracelet, straps, gaskets or seals.
For activities involving salt water or chlorinated water, we recommend rinsing the watch with fresh water (flat drinking water) to in order to help preserve the gaskets and seals of the timepiece.
Q: What does “ATM” on the back of my watch stand for?
Q: Can I swim/shower while wearing my watch?
A: The acronym ATM stands for “atmosphere” and refers to how well a watch can withstand exposure to water. All water resistant watches have gaskets and seals keeping water and air from entering the watch case. Exposure to various conditions, including the oils and salts our bodies produce, may cause these gaskets and seals to deteriorate. It is recommended that these items be checked by Philip Stein Authorized Repair Centers each year as a precautionary measure.
Philip Stein timepieces with a rating of 3ATM water resistance offer basic protection from accidental contact with water, such as being caught in the rain or washing your hands. Philip Stein timepieces that are rated 5ATM water resistance are protected from water damage during accidental contact, such as when washing hands, or even while showering; however, they should by no means be submerged entirely in water. 10ATM watches can be used for casual contact with water, as when wading in a swimming pool. Only watches marked 15ATM or greater are recommended for shallow swimming.
Philip Stein watches are not suited for diving purposes. Additionally, only watches with screw down crowns are recommended for routine use in or around water.
For activities involving salt water or chlorinated water, we recommend rinsing the watch with fresh water (flat drinking water) to in order to help preserve the gaskets and seals of the timepiece.
Q: Condensation appears on the inside of my watch crystal? What should I do?
A: Condensation occurs when the watch encounters sudden temperature changes. This could happen when going from hot outdoor climates, to cool, air-conditioned rooms. If the condensation does not clear, or happens repeatedly, please have a Philip Stein Authorized Repair Center (ARC) examine the watch.
Q: What type of movements are in my Philip Stein timepiece?
A: Philip Stein timepieces feature high quality quartz movements, as well as self winding automatic movements. Depending on the specific timepiece, your timepiece could have Swiss or Japanese movements.
All watch movements require routine servicing in order to maintain accuracy. While routine maintenance, such as battery changes, will be required more frequently, a detailed maintenance should be performed on the watch movements every three to five years, depending on model of watch you posses. Please contact your local Philip Stein Authorized Repair Center (ARC) for more information.
Q: How should I clean my fabric straps and stainless steel bracelets?
A: We recommend surface cleaning your strap and bracelets using warm water and mild soap with a soft brush. With the exception of rubber bracelets, avoid completely submerging any strap in water. Lay flat and air dry, avoiding artificial heat and direct sunlight. We recommend cleaning once a week for heavily worn straps, or if the strap was worn while in humid climates in which your body produces excess perspiration.
The natural materials used to manufacture your strap are sensitive to intense sunlight, chemicals, and excessive perspiration; therefore, continued exposure to these conditions could cause discoloration or other forms of damage. Friction with external garments could cause straps to lose color over time. We do not recommend wearing light-colored straps continually, as they will pick up residue and become stained more easily than dark colored straps.
For activities involving salt water or chlorinated water, we recommend rinsing the watch with fresh water (flat drinking water) to in order to help preserve the gaskets and seals of the timepiece.