Watch Servicing & Maintenance: The Key to Keeping Your Timepiece in Top Shape

A luxury watch is more than a timekeeper—it's an investment, a legacy, and often a piece of mechanical art. And just like a high-performance car, it needs attention to keep performing at its best.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• When to service your luxury watch
• Common issues to look out for
• What NOT to do — including the debate around watch winders

 

1. When Should You Service Your Watch?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are general guidelines you can follow:

• Modern automatic watches: Every 5-7 years
• Vintage watches: Every 2–3 years, especially with daily wear
• Immediately: If you notice issues like fog under the crystal, poor timekeeping, or resistance when winding

That said, let the condition guide you — not just the calendar.

Some watch movements run perfectly for 10–20 years without a service, while others may need attention sooner.

✅ If it’s running smoothly, shows no moisture, and winds without resistance — you’re likely in the clear.

 

2. Common Watch Issues & What They Mean

Even the finest movements need upkeep. Here are some red flags that indicates it’s time to book a service:

Dried Lubrication

• Friction builds up when the oils inside the watch movement dry out. This can cause wear, loss of power reserve, or sluggishness.
  

Moisture Damage

• A foggy crystal or rusting parts can destroy a movement. Even “water-resistant” watches aren’t invincible.

Bracelet Stretch or Wear

• Frequent use, especially with Oyster or Jubilee bracelets, can lead to stretch or dullness. Polishing, cleaning, and re-brushing can restore luster and comfort.

Unusual Noises

• Grinding, clicking, or any resistance during winding or setting is a major warning sign — do not ignore it.

 

3. A Note on Watch Winders: Use With Caution

Watch winders are a polarizing topic in the watch community. Here's our take: whilest some collectors love the convenience of watch winders, we don’t generally recommend them.

💡 Think of it this way: Using a watch winder is like leaving your car engine running 24/7—even when it’s parked. Sure, it keeps things “ready,” but it also puts unnecessary wear on the movement.

Unless you're wearing a watch daily or it has complex calendar functions that are tedious to reset, it’s usually better to let your watch rest when not in use.

 

Conclusion: Balance is Key

Servicing your watch is essential—but it doesn’t have to be excessive. Listen to your watch, observe how it runs, and when in doubt, consult a professional

At TimeTells, we offer professional watch servicing tailored to the specific needs of your timepiece. From routine maintenance to complete overhauls and vintage restorations, your watch is in expert hands.

🛎️ Book Your Watch Service Today

Keep your collection running flawlessly.