I wore my Omega Seamaster into the changing room at the hospital. I walked too close to the MRI suite wall. The next day, my watch was running +5 minutes fast per day. It was magnetized. I checked my insurance deductible ($0) and wondered: “Can I file a claim for this?”
Key Takeaways
- Magnetization is “Damage”: Technically, the watch is not functioning correctly due to an external force. It is a covered peril on an “All Risk” policy.
- Repair is Cheap: Demagnetizing a watch takes 10 seconds and often costs $0 at a boutique or $20 for a tool on Amazon.
- Deductible vs. Hassle: Even with a $0 deductible, filing a claim for a $50 service fee is a bad idea. It stays on your record.
- Service Center Upsell: If you send it to Omega, they might say “It needs a full service” ($800). Now it is a claim size worth considering.
The “Why” (The Trap)
The trap is “Nuisance Claims.”
Magnetism doesn’t break parts. It just sticks the hairspring coils together.
It is reversible damage.
While technically covered, using insurance for maintenance-level issues flags you as a “high frequency” user. Insurers might non-renew you if you file 3 small claims in 2 years.
The Investigation (My Analysis of the Fix)
I tested the DIY vs Pro route.
DIY Blue Box
- The Tool: A $15 blue demagnetizer from Amazon.
- The Fix: Hold watch, press button, pull away.
- Result: Fixed instantly. Cost: $15. No claim.
Boutique Visit
- The Fix: Walked into Omega Boutique. “My watch is fast.”
- Result: They put it on their machine. Fixed for free.
The Insurance Claim
- The Scenario: If the magnetism was so strong it actually warped a component (rare) or if you dropped it due to the magnetic pull (MRI strength), then file a claim. Otherwise, skip it.
[IMAGE: Photo of a cheap blue demagnetizer tool with a watch sitting on it]
Comparison Table
| Method | Cost | Insurance Impact | Effectiveness |
| DIY Tool | $15 | None | High |
| Jeweler Visit | $0 – $50 | None | High |
| Full Service | $800 | Claim on Record | High |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Download a Mag App: Use an app like “Lepsi” to test if the watch is magnetized.
- Buy the Tool: Keep a demagnetizer at home. It’s essential for collectors.
- Don’t Wear Watches Near MRIs: The magnetic field extends far beyond the machine. It can rip the watch off your wrist or stop it instantly.
- Avoid the Claim: Save your insurance luck for a theft or a smashed crystal.
FAQ
Are Silicon hairsprings immune?
Yes. Omega Master Chronometers (METAS) and Rolex Syloxi/Parachrom are highly resistant. They likely won’t get magnetized.
Does airport security magnetize watches?
Generally no. The metal detectors are too weak.
Can speakers magnetize watches?
Yes. Don’t leave your watch on top of a large stereo speaker.