There is a familiar story for many watch owners. A cherished timepiece, one that was once worn daily and worked perfectly, now sits forgotten in a dresser drawer. The reason is almost always the same: one day, it just stopped working.
But a watch is not like other electronics; it does not just fail. It is a miniature, high-precision machine that, just like a car engine, requires regular maintenance to run properly. Understanding what a service is, and why it is so important, is the key to keeping your watch on your wrist and out of that drawer.
Why does a watch need to be serviced? The car engine analogy
The core reason for servicing a mechanical watch lies in the hundreds of tiny, constantly moving parts that make up its movement. To allow these components to work together with minimal friction, a watchmaker applies several different types of special lubricating oils at key points during assembly.
Over time, typically 3 to 7 years, these oils begin to degrade. They can dry up, thicken, or become contaminated with microscopic dust or metal particles. When this happens, friction within the movement increases dramatically. This friction is the enemy of a mechanical watch. It forces the parts to work harder, which causes them to wear down, harms the watch's accuracy, and, eventually, can cause the movement to seize up and stop altogether.
The best analogy is running a car engine without ever changing the oil. For a while, it might seem to run fine. But eventually, the friction will cause serious and much more expensive damage to the engine's components. A watch service is essential preventative maintenance.
How often should you service your watch? A simple timeline
The recommended service interval depends on the type of movement your watch has.
Mechanical watches (automatic and manual-wind)
The general industry recommendation for a mechanical watch is to have a full service every 5 to 7 years. However, you should always check the manufacturer's specific guidelines. Thanks to advancements in modern lubricants and materials, some brands now have longer recommended service intervals of 8 to 10 years.
Quartz watches (battery-powered)
A quartz watch, having far fewer moving parts, does not require the same kind of regular mechanical maintenance. Its primary need is a battery change every 2 to 5 years, depending on the model and its functions.
However, it is a good idea to have a more thorough check-up every few battery changes. During this time, a watchmaker can replace the rubber seals (gaskets) that ensure water resistance and give the case a professional cleaning.
The key signs that your watch needs a service now
Your watch will often give you clear warning signs that it is overdue for maintenance.
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It’s losing or gaining significant time: This is the most obvious sign that something is wrong. Increased friction or dry oils are likely affecting the movement's performance and its ability to keep accurate time.
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The power reserve is very low: For a mechanical watch, if it stops running much sooner than its stated power reserve (for example, it stops after 12 hours when it should last for 40), it is a sign that the movement is struggling to function efficiently.
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It feels gritty or difficult to wind: If turning the crown to wind the watch feels rough instead of smooth, it indicates that the winding mechanism is dry and needs lubrication.
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There is condensation under the glass: This is an urgent warning sign. It means the water-resistance seals have failed and moisture has entered the case. Moisture is the biggest enemy of a watch movement and can cause rust and permanent damage very quickly. If you see this, take your watch to a professional immediately.
What happens during a full service? A step-by-step look
A proper service is an incredibly detailed and painstaking process that shows the value behind the cost.
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Complete Disassembly: The watchmaker begins by carefully taking apart the entire movement, piece by tiny piece.
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Cleaning: The hundreds of disassembled parts are placed into special baskets and cleaned in an ultrasonic machine with specific chemical solutions to remove all the old, degraded oils and any accumulated debris.
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Inspection & Part Replacement: Each individual component is then inspected under high magnification to check for any signs of wear. Any worn or damaged parts, such as gears or springs, are replaced with new ones.
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Reassembly & Lubrication: The movement is meticulously reassembled. The watchmaker then applies tiny, precise amounts of several different types of new synthetic oils to specific friction points, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
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Regulation: The reassembled movement is placed on a special timing machine (a timegrapher) to test its accuracy in different physical positions. The watchmaker then makes fine adjustments to the balance wheel to regulate it for the best possible timekeeping performance.
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Case & Bracelet Cleaning: The watch case and bracelet are typically cleaned ultrasonically to remove all dirt and grime. At this stage, professional refinishing (polishing or brushing) can also be done to remove scratches.
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Water Resistance Testing: After the movement is placed back in the case, new gaskets are fitted, and the watch is pressure-tested to ensure its seals are functioning correctly and that it meets its stated water resistance rating.
Conclusion: An investment, not a cost
A watch service should not be seen as a "repair" for a broken item, but as essential, preventative care for a high-precision machine. It is a small investment in the health and longevity of a valuable object. Regular servicing ensures that your watch remains a reliable and accurate companion for decades to come, instead of becoming a non-functional piece of history forgotten in a drawer.