In a world that’s constantly on the move, the concept of time has never been more important. A luxury watch is not just a functional accessory; it’s also a showcase of craftsmanship, precision, and the enduring value of time itself.
But just like with any other piece of mechanical equipment, the care and maintenance of your luxury watch are important to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. While luxury watches are built to last, they are not immune to the passage of time and the wear they have to endure.
Let’s get to know the signs that indicate it’s time to have your watch serviced. Knowing when to entrust your timepiece to professional experts will ensure its longevity and protect your investment.
What Happens During a Watch Service?
A watch service is a meticulous process that involves multiple steps. It starts with opening the timepiece and disassembling the movement to assess for any signs of wear or damage. If needed, parts are then repaired or replaced. The movement is thoroughly cleaned and lubricated so that all its moving parts function with precision.
The watch is then re-assembled and polished to perfection to make it look like new. Finally, testing for accuracy and water resistance are done to ensure that your watch meets the highest standards.
The general rule of thumb is that your watch will need to be serviced every three to five years. This is applicable to most watches, but just to be on the safe side, check what your manufacturer says about watch servicing.
Listening to Your Watch: Signs It’s Time to Service
Aside from regular servicing, you also need to watch out for these signs to know when it’s time to bring your watch out to a watch technician.
Rattling sound
There are at least 100 moving parts inside the average luxury watch, with each part harmoniously contributing to its impeccable performance. If you hear a rattling noise inside the watch, it could indicate that a spring or screw has come loose, or a crucial piece of the movement has shifted from its precise position. To ensure the smooth performance of your watch, have it examined by an expert who will check that every component is still in its rightful place.
Moisture beneath the crystal
The presence of moisture usually indicates a damaged gasket, which serves as a protective seal that safeguards the delicate interior of a watch. This condensation could potentially damage both the movement and dial of the watch. To prevent further damage, promptly seek the expertise of a watch repair professional.
Losing or gaining time
According to the COSC (Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute) standards, a watch’s margin of error should fall within a range of up to four seconds slow or six seconds fast. Any deviation from this standard means that your timepiece will require professional attention to make it accurate.
Reduced power reserve
A luxury watch’s power reserve is a measurement of how long a watch can run without winding. This function can also be considered as a complication, as seen on this Grand Seiko Heritage Snowflake watch. If you notice a significant reduction of the power reserve function of your watch, it might indicate a compromise within the movement or the mainspring’s functionality. This will also require the services of a watch expert in order to be fixed.
Remember that your watch is more than a timekeeping instrument; it’s a masterpiece of precision and craftsmanship. By promptly addressing these signs, you’re ensuring that your luxury watch will stand the test of time. When it comes to watch repair, Houston collectors depend on Zadok Jewelers. Our watch repair specialists have been fully trained and experienced to handle all types of repair and servicing.
