Wittnauer Watch Repair Near Me

by James · Published November 11, 2023 · Updated November 12, 2023

Wittnauer watches have a great reputation and have been around since 1885. They are Swiss watches known for their Longines movements. In the early 2000’s they were bought by Bulova who is owned by Citizen. While these are well made watches, they will eventually need service and repair work. Below I will discuss who fixes them, authorized vs unauthorized repairs, warranty information, and more. I’ll also share my experience with the Wittnauer watch repair near me.

Map of Wittnauer Watch Repair Near Me

For “Wittnauer Watch Repair Near Me”, see the map below for locations…

Unauthorized Wittnauer Watch Repair Shops

A local watch shop or jewelry repair would be hope to take a look at a Wiinauer. While these shops often do great work, it may not qualify as an authorized repair. Authorized repair work can only be done by certified Wittnauer technicians at a service center.

When you have any unauthorized repairs completed you could void your warranty. In addition, the shop can not honor your warranty and likely won’t provide a guarantee of their work.

So Why Do People Use Local Watch Repair Shops?

Local shops can provide great work. They are known for having faster turnaround time and you can speak directly with a technician in person. In the vent you have an expired warranty, an unauthorized repair would have no impact on it.

Conversely, Authorized Repairs Take Longer…

In my experience, an authorized repair on a Wittnauer watch repair takes 5-8 weeks. In many cases, you also may not speak to an actual technician. If you call their customer service you speak to a customer rep.

How Long is the Warranty on a Wittnauer Watch?

Wittnauer watches carry a 3 year limited liability warranty. That is 1 year better than most watch manufacturers. The warranty covers manufacturer defects and craftsmanship. So wear and tear and issues caused by you are not covered.

The warranty specifically states what is not covered:

Service and Maintenance.
Damage from improper handling, misuse, alteration, negligence, or lack of care.
Typical wear and tear and aging
The battery, crystal or strap.
Water damage if the model is not marked “water-resistant” or a water resistant watch that was not properly sealed and tested.
Repairs or servicing voids the warranty if not done by an Authorized Wittnauer Dealer or by Bulova.

If you mail in a Wittnauer and the issue is covered by warranty the repairs are free of charge. To make the claim you need the warranty card that is fully by an Authorized Wittnauer dealer. You also need an original receipt to show the proof of purchase. Another note on the warranty is that it can’t be transferred only the original owner may make a claim on the 3-year warranty.

To view the warranty, click here.

Wittnauer Battery Replacement Near Me

The battery in a Wiinauer should be replaced every two to three years. I would recommend changing it regardless of whether or not it has hit its end of life. Leaving a dead battery in a watch can cause damage if the battery leaks. The Wittnauer watch battery replacement near me, will clean a small leak for a small fee.

Not all Wittnauer timepieces are water resistant, but if you have one that is then changing the battery on those requires the case to be sealed tightly and tested. The best way to get that done is to let a professional change your battery. When a pro technician does it that will run a water resistance test. The Wittnauer battery replacement near me will also inspect your gasket before they seal the case.

Changing your battery yourself or having a local watch shop do it technically constitutes an unauthorized repair. If any noticeable damage was to occur you could void your warranty.

For additional help on battery information for different sizes and brands of batteries, check this chart.

Crystal Repair/Replacement

The crystal is often referred to as the watch glass. The crystal material on Wittnauer timepieces varies from plastic, glass, or sapphire. Each crystal type has its pros and cons. Plastic for example will scratch but rarely shatter. Sapphire on the other hand will shatter but rarely scratch. Each material also varies in cost to replace it with sapphire being the most expensive.

In my experience, I have seen mostly glass on these watches. A crystal replacement at the Wittnauer watch repair near me will run around $25-$30 just for the crystal. Having a pro replace the crystal for you is recommended which means you will also pay a small labor charge.

Band or Strap Repairs/Replacement

Wittnauer’s have different band types from fabric and leather straps to metal bands. For many of the most part, at least for vintage Wittnauer’s, changing out the band or strap is relatively easy. It can be done with a spring pen. You are not limited to just Wittnauer-manufactured options. There are plenty of choices from 3rd party vendors that fit these watches.

Band or Strap Resizing

Sizing a watch not only looks better, but prevents damage to your watch by securing it to your wrist. Leather and fabric straps can be resized by having new holes punched into the material.

Metal bands can be resized by removing or adding links. One of the things I appreciate about this brand is they make it clear how to get more links for a metal band. You can simply email: parts@bulova.com and request more links. For a vintage model, you probably won’t have much luck though.

Crown and Stem Repair Work

The crown is the piece of the knob on the side of the watch that allows you to adjust time and functions. The stem is the pin inside that connects the crown to the internal watch movement. If you have a chronographer you will have multiple crowns and stems.

On a newer model of a Wittnauer watch crown and stem repair isn’t too problematic since the parts are still manufactured. Crown and stem work on a vintage Wittnauer watch gets more difficult. Parts need to be found and possibly fabricated.

Movement Repairs

The movement is the internal mechanism that makes the watch work. It’s all the gears and parts that sit under the face and dial. These watches can feature different types of movements like quartz, mechanical, and automatic. They also feature various jewel counts.

Movement repairs are often some of the most expensive. Replacing one is sometimes cheaper than repairing one. This gets further more complicated with vintage watches because repair is sometimes the only course of action. For more than 100 years Wittnauer’s had a classic Longines movement, but that stopped about 20 years ago.

Wittnauer Vintage Chronograph

Authorized Wittnauer Watch Repair Near Me

Wittnauer is owned by Bulova. This means your authorized Wittnauer watch repair near me will be completed by them. You can find an authorized repair by seeking a Wittnauer watch shop or sending your watch into Bulova or CWA who handles their repairs.

If you are making a claim against your warranty then you must provide proof. To do that you have to be the original owner and have a fully completed warranty card from a Wittnauer authorized dealer. Additionally, you need the receipt with the date of the sale, the price you paid, and the model number of the timepiece.

For watches determined to be a manufacturer or craftsmanship issue, all costs will be covered. For all issues not covered, they will contact you before any work is done. They will make an estimate on the cost and you can decide to have the work done or have them send the watch back as is.

For the authorized US service center you can contact:

CWA
Attn: Customer Service
1000 W 190th St
Dept R
Torrance, CA 90502-1040

If you have any questions, send us an email at service@bulova.com or call them at 800-228-5682

Tips for Sending Away Your Watch to an Authorized Wittnauer Service Center Near Me

Use an index card to write out the issue, be very specific about the problem is your watch has.
Include your name, address, phone number, and email address.
Estimate the value of the watch and write it on the index card.
Insure your package for the value you estimated the watch to be.
Follow all information on the Wittnauer website.
Contact customer support if you have questions.
If it is still under warranty include a copy of the original receipt.
Add tracking to your package.

Can you Fix a Wittnauer Watch Yourself?

It’s possible for some minor issues, but generally, it’s not recommended. Wittnauer watches are intricate devices, and Swiss trained watchmakers perform repairs with a level of precision that comes from years of training and experience. If you’re not skilled in watch repair, you could do more harm than good.

For instance, if your watch needs to be repaired because it’s running slow or fast, this could be due to a complex mechanical issue that requires professional calibration. And if you’re thinking about replacing a battery or fixing a band, while these might seem like simple tasks, they can affect the watch’s warranty or its water resistance.

The best course of action? Get a free estimate from a professional. They can tell you what’s wrong and how much it will cost to fix. This way, you ensure your watch gets the proper treatment it needs and continues to function flawlessly without risking further damage.

Maintenance Tips to Avoid Frequent Repairs

Owning a Wittnauer watch is a statement of elegance and precision. To ensure its longevity and avoid frequent trips to the repair center, it’s crucial to follow a set of maintenance tips.

Routine Maintenance Tips for Wittnauer Watches

Wittnauer watch models are renowned for their craftsmanship and durability. However, like any sophisticated instrument, they require regular care. A simple battery replacement, for instance, is a common need but should be performed by experienced watchmakers to guarantee the integrity of the watch. It’s not just about replacing the battery but also about checking the watch’s seals and ensuring its water resistance remains uncompromised.

For mechanical watches, routine servicing is key. This includes cleaning, oiling, and adjusting the movement, which should be done every 3 to 5 years. Swiss trained watchmakers are often sought after for this service due to their meticulous training and expertise.

Best Practices for Watch Care

To reduce the need for repair services, daily care practices are essential. Keep your Wittnauer away from magnets, which can affect its movement, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures. When not in use, store your watch in a dust-free case to protect it from environmental elements.

If your watch has a leather strap, keep it away from water and moisture to prevent warping and cracking. For metal bracelets, a gentle wipe with a soft cloth can remove any accumulated debris.

Should your watch face ever get scratched, a crystal replacement might be necessary. This, along with a complete restoration, should be entrusted to professionals who offer free estimates and can provide service with satisfied customers as their testament.

Lastly, always keep your original receipt and warranty information in a safe place. Many repair services require proof of purchase, and in the event of a claim, companies like Jewelers Mutual may need this documentation.

By following these maintenance tips and best practices for watch care, you can enjoy your Wittnauer watch with minimal interruption, ensuring that it remains a treasured piece of your collection for years to come. Remember, a little care goes a long way, and with hassle-free maintenance, your watch will continue to mark time with elegance and precision.

Other Resources for Wittnauer Watch Repair Near Me

My first avenue for help is to always contact the Wittnauer watch repair near me, but sometimes it’s not enough. If after reading this article you are still seeking guidance, try the following…

Iconic Wittnauer Watch Models

When you call the Wittnauer watch repair near me, the first question is always, “What model do you have”. This is important info for a technician to determine the age, functions, and movement type of the watch. Here is a list of some of the most iconic Wittnauer timepieces:

Allproof
Futurama 1000
Vintage Chronographs
2000