A watch that suddenly gains or loses time deserves attention, but the change alone does not identify the cause. Magnetic exposure is one possibility. Start by checking where the watch has been resting and which movement it uses, then record what happens after moving it away from nearby magnetic objects.
Look at everyday contact points
The Seiko 6R54/6R55 diver’s watch manual identifies phone and tablet speakers, magnetic covers and bag clasps among potential sources. A watch may sit beside these objects on a desk or touch a clasp when carried inside a bag.
Review those contact points rather than treating every electronic device as an equal risk. Give the watch a separate resting place instead of laying it directly on a phone or magnetic cover. Follow the actual watch’s instructions for separation distances; a figure quoted for another model is not a universal guarantee.
Distinguish the movement’s response
Seiko’s explanation of magnetism distinguishes mechanical watches from analogue quartz. An affected mechanical watch can remain magnetised after leaving the source, with continued timing error. In an analogue quartz watch, a magnetic field can interfere with the motor driving the hands, causing incorrect time or stoppage.
For analogue quartz, moving away and resetting the time may restore normal use; Seiko also calls for demagnetisation after extremely strong exposure. These are different responses, so identify the calibre before choosing the next step. Our quartz and mechanical comparison explains the broader difference in daily ownership.
Keep a useful timing record
As a practical observation, compare the watch with the same reliable time reference and note the date, time and difference. Repeat under ordinary wearing conditions using the maker’s recommended assessment period. Record any reset or stoppage: an unexplained jump in the notes is less useful than a clear sequence.
Include where the watch was kept and whether the change appeared suddenly. This is information for a service discussion, not a home diagnosis of magnetisation. Compare the result with the specification for the exact watch, including its stated conditions, rather than assuming every mechanical or quartz model shares one acceptable rate.
Respond to the result, then adjust the habit
If abnormal timing persists, contact the maker’s service centre or a qualified watchmaker. Ask them to assess the cause and whether demagnetisation is appropriate. Avoid opening the case or experimenting with a magnet to test a suspicion. A magnetic-resistance claim still needs to be read with the model’s instructions.
Finally, make the resting place easy to use every day. Our between-wears storage guide covers the wider arrangement, including separation from other objects. Browse Watches & Wear for related care and wearing guides.