A watch repair can be costly, exceptionally if you choose to let the watch manufacturer do the service. Experienced and authorized watchmakers can be found in your state, but employing a manufacturer’s services also has its advantages and disadvantages.
Manufacturers are well versed in repairing their movements and can easily find the original parts. What’s more, they provide manufacturer warranties that ensure you won’t have difficulty reselling the watch. The downside in sending your timepiece to the manufacturer is that it can take an excessive amount of time and be extremely costly.
There are numerous options to consider before using watch repair services. You can either drop it off at an authorized dealer or ship it to the manufacturer.
Here are the steps a manufacturer follow to perform a complete service:
- Disassembly of the case
- Cleaning of the movement
- Replacement of worn components
- Reassembly and lubrication of the movement
- Adjusting the movement and control of its paraments
- Cleaning and refurbishment of the bracelet and case
- Renewal of the water-resistance and reassembly of the case
- Quality control to ensure everything has been done the right way
Summary Of Various Repairs and Approximate Costs
Watch Battery Replacement
If your watch has stopped, if it isn’t keeping the correct time, the second-hand jumps in 5-second intervals, or frozen, you’ll need to replace your battery more than likely. Most professional watchmakers will charge $15-20 to change an essential watch battery. It can vary greatly depending on the brand and type. Watches featuring chronographs, water-resistant models, and waterproof models can quickly start at $50.
Mechanical Watch Overhaul
It is a complicated procedure that involves completely dismantling the movement (bezel, crystal, pushers), and every part has meticulously checked, tested, repaired/replaced if necessary. The gaskets are replaced-the watch demagnetized, and the time has calibrated. The watchmaker will run quality control tests, a water resistance test according to model specifications, hour date setting, and a final check of the movement and all functions for over 48 hours.
The cost of an overhaul depends on the manufacturer, but for a fine Swiss timepiece, the price can start at $200 and can go up to $1000 or more.
Crystal Replacement
If the crystal of your watch is cracked or scratched, you’ll need to have it replaced. The crystal protects the watch dial and reduces glare. Watch crystals can be made of glass, acrylic, synthetic or genuine sapphire. If you find your watch crystal is continually getting scratched, a good option would be to upgrade to a sapphire crystal that is scratch resistant.
The cost for a watch crystal has based on the brand, the type of crystal being replaced, size, and repair service being used. On average, the fees can range from $30 for an acrylic crystal up to more than $150 for a sapphire crystal.
New Bracelet or Strap
Watches ordinarily feature bracelets made from stainless steel, gold, platinum, titanium, or a combination of metals or straps (animal skin, leather, or new materials such as carbon fiber or rubber).
If you choose to purchase a new strap, you can get a similar strap to the one you already have or choose a different style that adapts to your specific model. Quality differentiates the various replacement straps. The price for a basic leather strap begins at $25 but can go up to $500 if you opt for custom straps or rare animal skins.
Replacement straps are typically costlier. The price range for an essential steel bracelet is from $50-$75 up to $1000, whereas platinum or gold bracelets have sold for thousands of dollars depending on the width, weight, and quality.
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How Regularly Should I Seek Watch Repair Services?
As a thumb rule, you need to take your watch for complete servicing every 3-5 years. When you take too long before servicing your timepiece, its faulty parts will probably damage other elements, and the oils might dry, causing further damage to the watch’s interior. Thus, you will have to pay more than is necessary for watch repair.
You’ve probably heard stories of timepieces from top brands like Omega and Rolex appraisers still functioning well after staying several years without servicing. It may be true but such cases are rare. These companies are known for manufacturing reliable products, and even they advise wearers to service their watches frequently.
There are a few things you need to check by yourself before going to the service center.
Measuring Your Mechanical Watch’s Accuracy
When assessing your watch’s health, the first aspect to look at is its accuracy.
Its brand or model determines a watch’s precision. Generally, a reasonably accurate watch is one running between +10/-10 per day. A significant number of brands have their certifications and tolerance, which have been designed to help you check your watch (you should inquire from your watchmaker if you don’t know them).
Do you want to track and measure the precision of your timepiece? Well, there are many options to choose from, and the easiest one is Alex & Company! We offer this as a free service, and we will provide you with the accuracy of your watch while you have it on (That is, in “real” conditions).
Going to the nearest watch repair center or your watchmaker is also an option, but you will only get the “quick” measure and not the kind of evaluation you need.
Our assessment at Alex And Company will help you get to know your watch’s behavior. If you discover that the gap between your measure and the precision range given by your brand is significant, you should take the watch to your dealer for service. And if the measure is strange, please conduct a second measure to confirm before you hurry to your watch manufacturer.
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How Long Does It Take To Fully Service A Watch?
The time taken has determined by the watch’s brand and the amount of repair that needs to be done. Occasionally, the watch will be sent to the manufacturer, and this will delay the servicing further. In most cases, watch servicing takes around 4 weeks or more, and at times it can take up to 6 months.
There’s another excellent option that you might consider – seeing your local independent watchmaker. The watch repair will take far less time, but ensure that they have the necessary skills to repair your timepiece (i.e., find spare parts quickly and have proper brand training). You will realize that this solution can be more affordable. “Is there a watch repair service near me?” You must be asking yourself this question. At Alex and Company one of the best jewelers in boston , we provide watch repair MA services.
Watch Repairs at Alex & company
There are other minor fixes, such as getting a new dial, replacing the hands, and changing the crown. Watch repair cost depends on the condition of the watch and its model. We provide these types of watch repairs. If you need Newton’s watch repair services, please do watch repair consultation us via phone at 617.965.8777 or email us for further discussion.
Other services at Alex & company
Alex & Company offers a wide range of jewelry services to cater to your needs. From custom designs and engraving to jewelry repairs and restoration, our expert team is dedicated to providing exceptional craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking to create a unique piece, restore a family heirloom, or find the perfect gift, we’re here to bring your jewelry dreams to life. Experience the excellence of our services at Alex & Company.
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