How Often The Watch Should Be Serviced? 

The standard recommendation for servicing your watch is every 3 to 5 years. However, many people only bring their watches in for service when they are completely stopped. Often, this requires a small complementary fix, but more commonly, dried-out oil leads to internal wear and tear. As friction builds up, it can cause damage to the watch’s parts, which increases the cost of repairs. Another important factor is the rubber gaskets that ensure your watch is water-resistant or waterproof. These gaskets have a limited lifespan, and if moisture seeps into your watch, it can corrode the entire movement. The longer the moisture remains inside, the more damage it can cause to your watch.

The frequency at which a watch should be serviced depends on several factors, including the type of watch (automatic, quartz, mechanical), its usage, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. However, here are some general guidelines:

1. Mechanical Watches (Automatic and Manual)

• Recommended service interval: Every 3 to 5 years.
• Why: Mechanical watches have intricate movements with small parts that wear down over time. Regular servicing helps ensure the movement runs smoothly and prevents damage from oil drying up or parts wearing out.
• Signs it needs servicing sooner:
  • Inaccurate timekeeping despite adjustments.
  • Unusual noises (like a ticking or grinding sound).
  • Stopping unexpectedly even after winding.

2. Quartz Watches

• Recommended service interval: Every 4 to 6 years.
• Why: Quartz watches are generally low maintenance. The most common need for servicing is changing the battery. Over time, the movement’s internal components may wear out, and seals may degrade.
• Signs it needs servicing sooner:
  • Timekeeping issues after replacing the battery.
  • Condensation or water inside the watch.

3. Diving Watches or Watches Exposed to Water and Dust

• Recommended service interval: Every 1 to 2 years.
• Why: Diving or sports watches, especially those used frequently in water, need to be checked more often for water resistance. Over time, seals can degrade, risking water damage to the internal mechanisms.
• Signs it needs servicing sooner:
  • Water or condensation inside the watch.
  • The crown or pushers not sealing properly.

4. Luxury Watches or Watches with Complications (e.g., Chronograph, Tourbillon)

• Recommended service interval: Every 3 to 5 years, but some high-end models may require more frequent attention.
• Why: Luxury watches have complex movements and require careful maintenance to preserve their performance and value. Regular servicing ensures that intricate parts continue to function as expected.
• Signs it needs servicing sooner:
  • Inaccurate timekeeping or complications malfunctioning (e.g., chronograph not working).

5. Other Considerations

• Storage and Usage: If the watch is rarely worn, it might require less frequent servicing. However, if it’s exposed to harsh environments (extreme temperatures, humidity, or physical stress), it may need to be serviced more often.
• Watch Brand Guidelines: Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for service intervals, as some brands may have specific requirements for their movements.

Regular servicing can extend the life of the watch, prevent major repairs, and ensure it retains its accuracy and water resistance.