A quality timepiece is more than just a fashion accessory—it’s a mechanical instrument made of dozens, sometimes hundreds, of tiny parts working in harmony. And like any fine machine, your watch needs regular maintenance to stay accurate, durable, and valuable.
In this guide, we’ll explain how often watches should be serviced, what happens during a full service, and how to know when your watch needs attention.
How Often Should You Service Your Watch?
While the exact timing can vary, most experts recommend:
- Mechanical watches (manual or automatic): every 3 to 5 years
- Quartz watches: every 5 to 7 years, or when the battery is replaced
- Dive watches or water-resistant models: more frequent pressure checks (every 1–2 years)
Note: High-end brands like Rolex, Omega, or IWC may have specific service intervals listed in the warranty booklet.
What Happens During a Watch Service?
A complete watch service (also called an overhaul) typically includes:
- Disassembly: Watch is taken apart piece by piece
- Cleaning: Ultrasonic cleaning of all components
- Lubrication: Fresh oils added to reduce friction
- Reassembly & Calibration: Timekeeping is adjusted for precision
- Water resistance test (if applicable)
- Polishing of case and bracelet (optional)
Brands often reseal gaskets and run the watch through multiple-day performance tests after service.
Signs Your Watch Needs Servicing
- Losing or gaining too much time
- Strange ticking noises
- Moisture under the crystal
- Power reserve decreasing
- Hands skipping or stopping (especially in quartz models)
- Date or chronograph functions not working properly
How Much Does It Cost?
- Standard quartz service: $30–$100
- Mechanical watch service: $150–$800+ depending on brand
- Luxury service (Rolex, Patek, etc.): $500–$1,500+
Though expensive, regular service prevents costlier repairs in the long run and preserves resale value.
Can You Do It Yourself?
Watch servicing requires specialized tools, training, and a dust-free environment. For most users, professional servicing is highly recommended, especially for automatic and high-end models.
