My watch is running slow. Does it need a service?

Loss of accuracy is normally a clear indication that the movement requires a service. Over time, the various oils in the movement will dry out, causing friction and wear of the movement components.

My watch is running fine but hasn’t been serviced in over 5 years. Is it worth having it serviced?

The various gaskets in the watch will begin to perish as they age. For this reason, even when performing well, it is worth having the watch tested and inspected. If you use the watch frequently in or around water, regular servicing is recommended every three to five years.

My watch has a quartz movement. Does this mean it will only require a battery change every couple of years?

Although the watch’s power is provided via a battery, there are still mechanical components in the movement which require regular care and maintenance, as with a mechanical movement. You should expect to have the watch serviced in addition to the replacement of the battery every 2-3 battery changes.

What’s covered when my watch undergoes a full service?

Your watch’s movement will receive a complete overhaul by one of our highly skilled watchmakers, with the time keeping and power reserve being restored back to the manufacture’s specifications.  Externally, the watch will be fully refurbished by our polishing department to ensure that the piece is returned to you close to its original purchase condition. Please see our service guide for further information.

What are the timekeeping expectations of my watch and what is a chronometer?

All brands set out their tolerances/expectations for the performance of their movements. Vintage timepieces can be expected to gain as much as a minute a day, however most newer movements work to the chronometer timekeeping specifications of plus 6 seconds to minus 4 seconds a day. If you would like any further information on a specific brand of watch, please contact us.

Can magnetism affect my watch?

Exposure to a magnetic field (which can be found in various electrical items) can affect the timekeeping of your watch. The effect of magnetism on the hairspring can change the rate and in turn cause a difference in the performance of the watch. This can also be a reason for the watch to stop.

How long will it take to service my watch?

We aim to have all watches back to our customers within two to four weeks, although; this can be dependent on the manufacture and the complexity of the movement. We discuss the timescale for all repairs with our customers on inspecting the watch. We will always help, where possible, if a watch is required back by a certain date. 

What is the difference between a manual-winding and self-winding watch?

The difference in the movements is that a self-wind watch is wound by an internal rotor which responds to the user’s movement during wear. A manual-wind watch will require winding daily to keep the watch running.

If I leave my watch off for a day, does it require winding if the movement is still running?

Most watches will have a power reserve of over forty hours, however if the watch has been off the wrist for a day or more it is advisable to wind the watch to help maintain a stable movement performance. 

Can I shake my automatic watch to get it going if it has stopped?

Although this may start the watch running again there will be little to no power in the movement. If a watch has stopped it should always be wound 20-30 times by the crown to ensure that the movement will perform to its full potential.

I haven’t had my watch valued since I purchased it, is this something I need to have done?

If your watch is insured, then you will be required by your insurance company to have an up-to-date valuation. Failure to do so may compromise your insurance and mean that you do not get the watch’s full value reimbursed should you lose it or have it stolen.