Everyone needs a watch. Whether you need it for work, for your appearance, or just for convenience, watches are an essential part of life. But what if your old timepiece starts acting up? Or what if you just want to give it a new look? Watch repair is a booming industry that services everything from high-end Swiss timepieces to the most basic Casio. Whatever your reason for getting watch repair done, make sure to consider these five things before you go through with any repairs.
Consider the Cost
When you get a watch repaired, you’re going to have to pay for the service. This will vary from location, but generally speaking, expect to spend around $20-$30 per repair, which could be more if you need additional work done. You also need to consider how much time and money it will cost for you to ship the watch off for repair. If you don’t want to send it in yourself, then you’ll need to find a reputable third party who can do the work for you.
Finally, there’s always the risk that your watch won’t come back from the shop in the same condition as when it was sent out. After all, parts of your beloved timepiece may be replaced by parts that are not exactly original or even made by the same company as before.
If these things make you uncomfortable, then it may be wise to take your timepiece into a certified watch repair service and have them inspect it before they ever touch it. In this way, they can give you an estimate on what is wrong with your watch and tell you what needs fixing up before they do any work on it at all.
Know What You’re Getting Yourself Into
Watch repair can be a complicated process. Repairing a watch requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Some repairs might involve replacing the entire movement, which could be pricey and time-consuming.
Watch repair is not something you want to undertake without knowing what it entails. Make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into before you make a decision to have your watch repaired. If you still think it’s worth the risk, make sure to read reviews for any company that offers watch repair services in your area.
Get the Right Watch Tools
You never want to go into a watch repair with just your hands and some youtube tutorials. You need the right tools that are manufactured specifically for watch repair. These tools will help you disassemble, reassemble, and clean your watch safely. And if you’re planning on taking apart the piece yourself, ensure that you have the necessary training first!
Do Your Research Before You Go Watch Repair
The first thing you should do before getting your watch repaired is research. What does the problem with your watch sound like? Is it a loose battery connection, a broken crystal, or something else entirely? Whatever your issue, there are going to be a variety of different repair options available. Make sure you take the time to research which option will best suit your needs and budget.
Consider the Warranty
Your watch may not be covered under warranty, but if it is, you should take advantage of that. Many warranties offer one or two years of protection from the date of purchase. If your warranty has expired and you need repair work done, you’re going to have to pay for the repairs out-of-pocket.
If you are going to get your watch repaired, it is important to keep the warranty information from the watch maker. If a problem does occur with the watch after it’s been repaired, this will make it so much easier for them to help you. This can be especially important if the issue is a mechanical one that would be hard to identify without having the original work order.
