Every watch, to obtain the maximum of accurate timekeeping, should be regulated to the personal activity of the owner.  A watch will not take the same rate -- that is, render identically the same time service – when carried by two people, even though these two people may have almost identical habits.

While it is quite common to check the performance of a new watch immediately after one begins to carry it, it should be carried several weeks before such checking is made.  Then careful attention should be given to its rating before the regulator is touched. A competent watchmaker should then regulate the watch.  A Hamilton thin model will show a difference of approximately 20 seconds in 24 hours when the regulator screw is given a full turn.  In Hamilton railroad models, this variation will run up to as much as 1 second per hour.  Never attempt to regulate your watch yourself. Your jeweler will always be glad to render this service at any time.

Magnetism is an enemy with which every watchmaker and watch owner must contend.  A magnetized watch will not keep time accurately.  Therefore, care should be taken not to wear a watch of good grade within the influence of a powerful magnetic field. By magnetism, we do not mean the ordinary electric circuits in homes, offices or factories.  This is really insulated electricity. Magnetism, while a form of electricity, is not active in that sense but a phenomenon that is caused by an electric current. Watches can be de-magnetized by a special instrument built for the purpose. To test a watch for magnetism, place a small compass over the balance wheel. If the movement is magnetized the compass will vibrate with the balance wheel. If the watch is not magnetized, the needle of the compass will point magnetic north.  Do not bring your watch any closer than necessary to receivers of radio sets or telephones nor walk close to unshielded dynamos of transformers.  Keeping these things in mind will insure you a freedom from annoyance that a magnetized watch causes.