Just like other things in life we would want to use for a long time, no matter how expensive or low-cost, watches need servicing.
So, if you are one that loves to have a collection of Quartz, then chances are that you might get to service them like in a half-decade when the battery runs out. It usually takes like two to ten years before this happens.
Although servicing varies depending on the brand and models, manufacturers and watchmakers always recommend three to five years of servicing to keep the watch in excellent condition.
So, where can you service your high-value classical watch? What signs show that your watch needs instant attention and is do-it-yourself watchmaking something you can adopt? This article is here to answer all those questions and give you the perfect guide.
1. Quartz Watches
Most affordable watches are quartz, and they are usually simple but detailed creations. When they stop working, it’s either the battery has run out or it’s gradually getting to the end of its lifespan.
The easy technical makeup like that of the Tissot watch is easy to fix. All it requires is that you simply change or replace the battery. So, you just have to visit the closest jeweler and the problem will be solved.
One other issue that may arise is the buttons or pushers not working effectively. This is usually caused by the accommodation of dust around the tiny spring that helps the buttons to work effectively. It might be easily detected like this. So, all you have to do is to take your watches to watch specialists and get their recommendations.
2. Mechanical Watches
Mechanical watches come with more individual parts, so more things can go wrong. Sometimes, the only headlight you might get maybe that time-keeping is either slower or faster, which is mostly caused by lack of service.
These sets of watches have about 180 parts that will need lubrication from time to time. And when that is not done for about four to five years, it causes wear and tear, which usually leads to losing or gaining time.
3. A Full Service
A full service is usually the ultimate solution for a timepiece that is not functioning well. This is because, during the process, all aspects of the watch are investigated to ensure that it functions originally as the manufacturer intended.
You should also check to see if the crown and the buttons have been marked as being worn out or needs replacement. Check the seals and gaskets to ensure it is still maintaining its water-resistance properties.
Automatic and manual wind watches should go through power reserve tests from time to time. If any of these things haven’t happened to your watch, it simply means it is yet to go through full servicing.
4. Vintage Or Antique Watch Repairs
These watches are usually more resistant to elements than modern watches. However, dust and water could make their way to it and cause some level of damages. While some Swiss watch retailers can fix vintage watches, a genuine antique is best repaired by a specialist such as Struthers. However, some manufacturers also offer in-house services depending on the age of the watch.
The repair could include a scratched glass or a damaged bracelet, which is caused by the everyday items they are exposed to.
Many brands will always insist that you bring the watch back to them for repairs so they can send it back to the manufacturers. But if you are going to opt for third-party repairs, then it will do you good to check accreditation.
How to Avoid Watch Problems
- Take your watch for servicing every four to five years, even if it’s not showing any signs of wear or tear. Things like gaskets, rubber seals deteriorate naturally with time.
- Do well to maintain your automatics even when you are not wearing them. Manually wind any watch you don’t use in four to five days to protect the oil from drying out.
- When buying a watch, ask the watchmaker about his credentials and what he intends the watch to do, and parts that will need replacements in a few years’ time. It gives you an assurance.
- Never go for the quick and easy option. It might be easy to quickly change a damaged part by the roadside. However, there might be more damages on the inside than you might know, and fixing it might require that it is dismantled, cleaned, and reassembled.
- To clean your watch at home, Rolex recommends a simple damp cloth to gently clean the watch or a toothbrush and soapy water to brush out dust and accommodate dirt from the case or metal bracelets. And don’t try to fix your watches at home.
Conclusion
To make your classic wristwatch last for you, be sure that you are sent to repairs and servicing from time to time. Here, we have given you all you need to know about watch servicing.
