Why Should Get a Professional Watch Repair
The wristwatch is the most popular form of jewelry in the world today. It’s a fashion accessory that everyone needs to have, but it can also be a vital timepiece if you work outside of the home. The problem with watches is that they are delicate and need to be cared for by someone who knows what they’re doing. If your watch breaks because it was dropped or exposed to water, don’t just buy another one, seek a professional watch repair.
How Do You Know When Your Watch is Damaged?
- The watch leaks and moisture is stuck inside.
- The strap or band of the watch breaks.
- There are cracks or scratches on the glass face of your watch.
- Your battery dies, but it still ticks away in harmony with its hands as if you were wearing it!
- The crown is bent.
Can People Repair Their Watches at Home?
You can purchase the replacement parts and tools you need to replace old, worn-out, or broken pieces. You will have to know what size screws are used in your watch first, though! So yes, you can repair your watch at home, but it may be best to have a professional watch repair service do the job for you.
The one thing you need to be aware of is that you could potentially void your warranty. Many watch manufacturer warranties explicitly state that any unauthorized work on the watch will void the warranty.
How Do You Customize Your Watch at Home?
The best way to customize your watch at home is with a new strap. You can use small screws, opened and loosened by the screwdriver, in conjunction with a pair of needle-nose pliers.
What Do You Need for a Good Repair?
A set of extra hands would be helpful as well! Then, of course, some people will teach you how to do it, but you will better understand what needs to be done if someone can show the process.
How To Properly Care for Your Watch?
To properly care for your watch, you need to protect it from moisture and water. Professional watch repair services suggest that you also need a soft cloth or paper towel that will not scratch the glass face of the timepiece! Avoid wearing watches when doing things like gardening, construction, or other activities where they could contact dirt, dust, or chemicals. If this type of activity is necessary, it would be best to wear a rubber or plastic watch that can withstand the conditions.
What Should You Do if Your Strap Breaks?
If your strap breaks, there are replacement straps available at most jewelry stores and department stores. You will find them near the watches for sale in their respective departments. The price of replacement straps will depend on the type of watch strap you are looking for.
DIY TroubleShooting Issues Based on Movement Type
If you have know the type of movement in your watch, you can do some troubleshooting on your own. Movements of the same type tend to experience the same issues. We have a list of trouble shooting guides for the most common issues related to the 3 most popular movements:
- 10 Common Issues with Quartz Watches and How to Fix Them
- 6 Common Issues with Mechanical Watches and How to Fix Them
- 8 Common Issues with Automatic Watches and How to Fix Them
Why Choose a Professional Watch Repair?
When you have your watch repaired by a professional, they will fix the broken pieces and replace them with new ones. They also make sure that it keeps time properly by using tools that are not available on-site at home.
How Long Does a Professional Watch Repair Take?
The amount of time for repairs depends mainly on the needs and the type of watch. Some repairs can take less than 30 minutes, but others may require more time for testing and replacing parts. Surface problems with the bezel, bracelet, lugs, or strap tend to be faster. Replacing a crown can be quick as well as long as the stem isn’t pushed into the movement. Battery changes can also be performed rather quickly.
When issues are internal it can take longer. Any issue with the movement will require a longer wait. Movements are complicated mechanisms consisting of thousands of small parts. Some conatin jewels and other very expensive pieces.
What if You Are in a Hurry?
Some people are in such a rush that they will not even wait to have their watches repaired by professionals; they’ll just buy another one! If you’re this type of person, it may not be necessary for you to have your watch repaired at all.
For a vintage watch, you should drop it off and wait for a call. The older the watch the longer it may take to fix. Older watches require more care and technique when a professional watch repair works on them. They do not want to cause more damage to a watch that may hold a good deal of value.
What Is the Cost for a Professional Watch Repair?
Like the time, the repair cost will depend on the needs and how complicated the project will be. It’s always best to get a quote before deciding if you want your wristwatch fixed or replaced! The good news is that you can repair watches for a fraction of the cost of purchasing new ones.
In conclusion, watches need to be cared for by professionals who know what they’re doing. You can have your watch fixed or replaced, whether it’s a strap that broke, the glass face is scratched, or you need new hands on your clock!
Auhtorized vs Unauthorized Professional Watch Repair
Just because you seek a professional repair, does not mean the work is authorized by the manufacturer. Most watch manufacturer warranties contain a statement that says any unauthorized repairs will void the warranty. Most likely your local watch repair shop is not an authorized service center. That means that any work they do could void the warranty and even if you are covered, they won’t do the work for free.
To learn more about watch warranties and authorized service, read this.
Professional Watch Repair Conclusion
Watches are complicated pieces of equipment. Some contain thousands of tiny pieces inside. A professional watch repair shop will know how to troubleshoot and fix issues with almost all style of watches and their movements. While doing the work yourself can be satisfying, the more vintage your timepiece is the more care that needs to be taken when working on it.