When should I service my watch?

This is the single most important question a watch owner can ask — and the answer can mean the difference between a simple service and a costly movement rebuild. As a general rule, all mechanical watches should be serviced every 3–5 years, regardless of whether they appear to be running fine. Lubricants dry out, gaskets degrade, and microscopic wear accumulates invisibly over time.

⏰ Service immediately if your watch has not been serviced in 5+ years
Even a watch that appears to be running correctly is at risk. Dried lubricants cause metal-on-metal friction that accelerates wear on pivots, jewels, and gear trains. The longer it goes unserviced, the more expensive the eventual repair.

🚨 Bring your watch in right away if you notice any of the following:

• ⏱️ Losing or gaining time — more than +/−2 minutes per day on a mechanical watch indicates the movement needs attention. Quartz watches losing time may need a battery or movement service.
• ⏹️ Stopping or running intermittently — a watch that stops and restarts, or stops entirely, has a mechanical issue that will worsen without service.
• 💧 Moisture, condensation, or fog under the crystal — this is a serious warning sign. Water inside the case causes immediate corrosion to the movement, dial, and hands. Do not wait — bring it in as soon as possible.
• 🌊 Water exposure or submersion — even a watch rated for water resistance can allow moisture ingress if gaskets are aged or the crown was not fully pushed in. After any water exposure, have the movement inspected.
• 🔧 Stiff, loose, or difficult crown — the crown and stem are critical to water resistance and winding function. A crown that is hard to turn, pulls out unexpectedly, or feels loose may indicate a worn stem or damaged gasket.
• ⚡ Erratic or jumping seconds hand — on a mechanical watch, this often signals a worn or damaged escapement, a magnetized movement, or a failing mainspring.
• 🔊 Unusual sounds — grinding, ticking irregularities, or a rattling sound inside the case are signs of loose components or debris in the movement.
• 🧲 Recently acquired vintage watch — if you've purchased a vintage piece and don't know its service history, always have it inspected before regular wear. Unknown service history is a service due.

When in doubt, a quick consultation costs nothing — and catching a problem early can save hundreds in avoidable repairs. Contact us and we'll advise you honestly on whether your watch needs service.

What types of watch movements do you service?

We service all major movement types: manual (hand-wound), automatic (self-winding), quartz, and complex chronograph movements. Our watchmakers have expertise with Valjoux 7750, 72 & 23, Omega Cal. 321, 861 & 1861, Rolex Cal. 1570, 3135 & 3186, Zenith El Primero, Lemania 1873 & 5100, and many more.

Do you service Rolex, Omega, and other luxury watch brands?

Yes — we specialize in all major luxury and vintage brands including Rolex, Omega, Heuer, Breitling, Patek Philippe, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Longines, Zenith, Hamilton, Tudor, and more. Contact us if you don't see your brand.

Can you service a manual (hand-wound) or automatic watch?

Absolutely — manual and automatic movement servicing is our core specialty. A full service includes disassembly, ultrasonic cleaning, inspection, replacement of worn parts, lubrication with Swiss-grade oils, reassembly, and timing verification. We recommend servicing every 3–5 years.

Do you service chronograph watches?

Yes. Chronograph servicing is one of our specialties. We work on column-wheel and cam-actuated chronographs including Valjoux, Lemania, Landeron, Zenith El Primero, and integrated Rolex and Omega calibers. Service includes full overhaul plus pusher, cam, and coupling lever inspection.

Can you pressure test my watch for water resistance?

Yes — water resistance pressure testing is available on request. We typically recommend it for newer sport and diving watches. Please note that vintage watches are generally not candidates for pressure testing — aged cases, crystals, and gaskets may not withstand the test and results would not reflect modern water resistance standards. Contact us to discuss whether testing is appropriate for your timepiece.

Can you replace or recommend a watch strap or bracelet?

Yes — we replace straps and bracelets and make recommendations based on your watch's lug width, case style, and era. Browse our watch strap collection to find leather, NATO, rubber, and metal options and choose your own — or contact us for a personalized recommendation based on your specific reference.

Do you polish watches?

Our philosophy is to preserve watches in their original condition. We do not routinely polish cases or bracelets — original patina, brushing, and finishing are part of a vintage watch's character and collector value, and aggressive polishing permanently removes metal and destroys that history. On request, we can perform light cosmetic cleaning on newer watches where appropriate. If you have a specific concern about your watch's finish, contact us and we'll advise honestly.

How long does a watch service take?

Service time depends on the watch and extent of work required. Most services take a few weeks to several months based on movement complexity, parts availability, and current volume. Contact us for a more accurate estimate — we keep you informed throughout and never rush a job at the expense of quality.

Do you offer shipping for watch repairs?

Yes. We offer discounted shipping rates for our customers, billed at the end of your service along with the repair invoice. Contact us before shipping for safe packaging instructions and insured transit guidance. We recommend insuring all shipments at full replacement value.

What is your 30-Point Inspection?

Every watch we service or sell through our CPO program undergoes a 30-Point Inspection covering movement condition, timing accuracy, case and crystal integrity, crown and gasket function, dial and hands condition, bracelet wear, and overall authenticity.

Do you buy or trade watches?

Yes — Experts Watches buys and trades watches of all kinds. Our team provides fair, expert valuations backed by 30+ years of market experience. We also offer trade-in credit toward any watch in our collection. Submit your watch for a free valuation →

What is your Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program?

Our CPO program means every watch we sell has been inspected, timed, and authenticated in-house. No franken-watches, no undisclosed parts. We document provenance where available and provide honest condition grading. Browse our CPO vintage collection or contact us about unlisted inventory.