Dear Readers: Here are some helpful hints about buying a watch. When you purchase one, there are several important things to consider. The price is a factor, but also think about the guarantee of accuracy and the cost of upkeep.

Here's a checklist to help you make a "timely" choice:

• "Water-Resistant" indicates that the watch can be submerged in fresh water up to 80 feet and in salt water to 75 feet without loss of accuracy or leakage. However, some watches aren't water-resistant after the cases are opened for battery replacement.
• "Shock-Resistant" guarantees that a watch can be dropped from three feet onto a hardwood surface without damage.

• "Jewels" actually refers to the normally synthetic gemstones that operate the bearings inside a mechanical watch.
• "Anti-Magnetic" indicates that the inside working parts are made of metal that won't magnetically attract each other, but rather operate independently.
• Check the cost of batteries, cleaning, new or replacement parts and repairs.

  If you buy an expensive watch, read the guarantee carefully.

If you buy an expensive watch that you wear daily, it's a good idea to find a trusted watch-repair person to take care of your watch.
Dear Heloise: This is for people with cabinets in their kitchen that do not reach their ceiling. Have you ever got on a ladder and looked up there?

When you do look, you will find a horrifying buildup of grease and dust, which can be hard to clean and can damage the wood. My hint is to place sheets of newspaper on top of your cabinets to collect the grime, and when it's time to clean, just change the newspaper! It's tidy and easy.