How to Service a Mechanical Watch Movement

A mechanical watch is a miniature engine — dozens of components working in harmony to measure time with astonishing precision. Like any engine, it requires periodic servicing to maintain accuracy, prevent wear, and ensure longevity.

When Does a Watch Need Servicing?

Most watchmakers recommend servicing every 3–5 years for mechanical movements.

Signs Your Watch Needs Attention

• Running fast (+10+ seconds/day)
• Running slow (−10+ seconds/day)
• Stopping intermittently
• Second hand stutters
• Difficulty winding
• Condensation under crystal

What Happens During a Full Service?

1. Pre-service assessment — test timing, water resistance, power reserve
2. Complete disassembly — every component removed (100–300 parts)
3. Cleaning — ultrasonic baths remove old oil and debris
4. Inspection — every component examined under magnification
5. Replacement — worn parts replaced
6. Lubrication — correct synthetic oils applied at each jewel/pivot
7. Reassembly — carefully rebuilt in specific order
8. Regulation — fine-tuned to run accurately in multiple positions
9. Water resistance testing — new gaskets, pressure test
10. Final QC — runs for several days to confirm stability

Can You Service a Watch Yourself?

No. Unless you're a trained watchmaker with proper tools, attempting to service a mechanical movement will almost certainly cause damage. A pivot is often 0.1mm in diameter — thinner than a human hair.

How Much Does a Service Cost?

• Entry-level mechanical: £150–£300
• Mid-range automatic: £300–£600
• Chronograph/complex: £500–£1,000+
• Luxury brands: £800–£2,000+

Servicing vs Repair

• Servicing is preventative maintenance
• Repair is fixing something broken

Always service before repair is needed. Prevention is always cheaper.

After Servicing: Caring for Your Movement

• Wind fully after service
• Monitor accuracy for the first week
• Avoid shocks for the first few days
• Keep it wound to distribute oils evenly

For storage between wears, our Archive Single Watch Winder keeps automatic movements running with programmable turns-per-day.

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