How often should you get your watch serviced?
Watches are not only a stylish accessory, but they also serve an important function of telling time. However, like any other mechanical device, they require maintenance and servicing to function correctly. Regular servicing of your watch can extend its lifespan and keep it running accurately. In this article, we will discuss how often you should get your watch serviced and answer the common question, "How often should I get my watch serviced?"
Firstly, it's important to note that different types of watches require different levels of maintenance. For example, a quartz watch requires less servicing than a mechanical (also referred to as manual wound or automatic) watch. A quartz watch's battery needs to be replaced every 2-3 years, whereas a mechanical watch needs to be serviced every 3-5 years, depending on usage. Learn more on the difference between Quartz watches and mechanical watches.
If you wear your watch every day, it's recommended to have it serviced every 3-5 years. This regular servicing interval ensures that the watch's movement remains in optimal condition, as daily wear puts more stress on the movement, which can lead to wear and tear over time. The servicing includes a thorough cleaning of the watch's components, lubricating the movement, checking for any worn-out parts, and making necessary adjustments to ensure accurate timekeeping.
However, if you wear your watch occasionally or only on special occasions, you can have it serviced every 5-7 years. Since the watch is not subjected to daily use, it experiences less wear and tear, and therefore, it can go for a slightly longer period between services. Nonetheless, regular servicing is still important to maintain the watch's overall health and accuracy.
It's essential to service your watch regularly, even if it's running accurately, as there may be underlying issues that are not visible to the naked eye. Over time, the oils used to lubricate the watch's movement can dry out, leading to increased friction between the parts. This friction can cause damage to the movement and affect its performance. Regular servicing ensures that the watch's movement is properly lubricated, minimising friction and ensuring smooth operation.
If you notice any changes in your watch's accuracy, such as it running too fast or too slow, it's recommended to have it serviced immediately. This can be a sign of a problem with the movement, and delaying the servicing can lead to more significant issues. Addressing these accuracy issues promptly can prevent further damage and potentially costly repairs in the future.
In addition to regular servicing, it's also important to take care of your watch on a day-to-day basis. This includes avoiding exposing it to extreme temperatures or magnetic fields, as these can affect the watch's accuracy and functionality. Similarly, it's crucial to keep your watch away from water, unless it has a water resistance rating or is specifically designed as a diving watch. Water damage can be detrimental to the internal components of the watch and may require extensive repairs.
A great way to keep your automatic watch running well is to use a watch winder. A watch winder slowly rotates the watch, mimicking the everyday movements that power an automatic watch.
Overall, the frequency of watch servicing depends on the type of watch and the level of usage. As a general guideline, it's recommended to have your watch serviced every 3-5 years if you wear it regularly, and every 5-7 years if you wear it occasionally. Regular servicing can ensure that your watch remains accurate and can extend its lifespan, allowing you to enjoy its functionality and style for years to come.
If you own a Rotary watch and would like to get started with servicing, you can easily get in touch with our dedicated team through email or through our servicing portal.
Our knowledgeable professionals can guide you through the process and provide the necessary assistance to ensure that your watch receives the appropriate care it deserves. Remember, regular servicing is the key to maintaining the performance and longevity of your timepiece.
Written by Fraser James
