Watch repair: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What watch repair is

A watchmaker services and repairs watches by cleaning movements, replacing worn parts, resealing cases and adjusting timing. The work is done under magnification with small tools, and a good repair restores the watch's accuracy and water resistance.

Signs you need it

  • The watch has stopped running or runs only when you move it
  • The time is off by more than it should be or the watch runs fast or slow
  • The crystal is cracked, scratched or loose in the case
  • The crown, pusher or bracelet no longer works or has come loose
  • The watch has been exposed to water and you want it checked before you wear it again

What the pro does

  • Checks the watch for water damage, rust, worn parts and the condition of the case
  • Opens the case and inspects the movement under magnification
  • Cleans the movement in an ultrasonic or manual process and dries it
  • Replaces worn parts, such as the mainspring, gaskets or crystal, as needed
  • Reassembles the movement and adjusts the timing and power reserve
  • Tests the water resistance and the function before you pick the watch up

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The type of watch, such as a mechanical, automatic, quartz or vintage model
  • Whether a full service is needed or only a simple battery change or crystal replacement
  • Whether parts are needed and whether original parts are available for the model
  • Whether the case needs resealing or a water resistance test
  • Whether the bracelet, clasp or crown needs repair
  • The condition of the movement and how much work it needs

What a written quote should spell out

  • The service type, such as a full service, a cleaning or a battery change
  • The parts to be replaced and whether they are original or aftermarket
  • Whether a water resistance test and resealing are included
  • Whether a timing adjustment and function test are included
  • The pick-up date and what happens if the watch needs more work than quoted

Questions to ask before you hire

  • Can you tell me the make and model, and do you have parts for it?
  • Will you use original parts, or are they aftermarket?
  • Will the watch be tested for water resistance after the repair?
  • How accurate will the watch be after the service?
  • What will you do if the movement is damaged beyond repair?
  • Can you show me the old parts you replaced?
  • How long will a full service last before it needs another one?

Red flags

  • Replaces parts without showing you which parts or explaining why
  • Does not test water resistance after opening the case
  • Will not say whether the parts are original or aftermarket
  • Pressures you into a full service when a smaller fix would do
  • Gives a timing promise without testing the movement

What you can do yourself

You can change a battery in a quartz watch with the right tools if the watch is not water resistant, or you can clean the outside of the case and bracelet with a soft cloth. Do not open a mechanical movement or a case that has been exposed to water. Hire a watchmaker for any internal repair, movement service, crystal replacement, water resistance test or vintage watch, because these need specialized tools and careful handling.

Licenses and permits

A license is often not required for watch repair, but rules differ by state and city. Ask for proof of watchmaking training and photos of work on watches like yours.

Watch repair questions

How often should a watch be serviced?

It depends on the watch and how often you wear it. Ask the watchmaker for a schedule based on the movement type and your use, and watch for signs of trouble between services.

Will the watch still be waterproof after a repair?

It depends on the case, the seals and the repair. Ask the watchmaker to test the water resistance after the work and tell you the result.

Are original parts always needed?

Original parts are preferred when they are available, because they match the watch's design and fit. Ask the watchmaker what parts they will use and why.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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