Why is it important to have your watch repaired by a professional?
Last updated on the 3rd of June 2023 by Huxley Mann.
Are you a watch owner? If so, inevitably, at some point, you'll need to have your watch repaired or serviced. With proper maintenance, your timepiece can last for many years or even generations – but when something goes wrong, it's vital you seek the advice of a professional watch repair centre rather than attempting to fix it yourself or taking it to a general jeweller. All of which we will explore below.
A wealth of experience
Drawing from a wealth of expertise, professional watch repair shops employ a range of specialised watchmakers who have access to the latest tools, techniques and resources needed to detect and repair any make or model of watch efficiently. In addition, their comprehensive knowledge and skills allow them to provide high-quality repairs that will last for many years, making them more reliable than individuals or jewellers.
Warranty on repairs and servicing
Professional watch repair services guarantee their work and provide warranties on all repairs completed. If something malfunctions after you've had your watch serviced or repaired, you can take it back to have it repaired at no additional cost.
Ability to source genuine watch parts.
Watch repair shops can source genuine replacement watch parts from various suppliers and manufacturers, ensuring their customers are getting the best quality components for their watches. These parts are made with exacting standards in terms of durability, accuracy and aesthetics to maintain the value of your timepiece.
We always recommend asking your watch repair centre if they use either genuine or generic replacement parts before proceeding with their services.
Wide range of specialised tools and equipment
If you've ever been to a watch repair shop, you'll know they are a labyrinth of specialised tools and equipment. Some of the typical instruments you can expect to find:
Miniature screwdrivers, tweezers, measuring tools, pressers.
Watch glass fitting machines.
Opening tools to remove the back cover of a watch safely.
Ultrasonic cleaning machines to clean delicate parts of a watch.
Water pressure tools to test the water resistance of a timepiece.
Winding machines that test a watch's timekeeping accuracy.
Specialised oils, lubricants and cleaning solutions.
The list goes on and on. All these tools allow watchmakers to quickly identify and make any necessary repairs to your timepiece efficiently and with precision.
Can I fix my watch at home?
You might be tempted by the infinite instructional video blogs on DIY watch repairs, such as 'How to Replace a Watches Battery in 5 Easy Steps.' However, watches are composed of hundreds, if not thousands, of intricate moving parts, working simultaneously in perfect harmony. With that in mind, attempting to fix your watch at home could quickly become a costly mistake if you inadvertently knock, damage, or incorrectly reassemble the different components of your timepiece.
Repairing a watch accurately and safely requires specialist tools and equipment. These tools are necessary to remove the back case or other parts from the watch without causing damage. Even when using the correct tools, in some instances, there are complexities with the design of certain watches that require specialised knowledge to ensure the repair goes smoothly.
When it comes to repairing a watch, having a clean environment is essential. Foreign particles and contaminants can easily enter the delicate internal components of your timepiece, potentially causing significant damage. Watch repair shops use specialised cleaning materials and equipment to maintain a spotless environment, which ensures that no contaminants come into contact with the delicate parts of a watch.
It's also worth noting that any repairs or modifications to a watch carried out at home can void its warranty. If your timepiece is still under warranty, it's advisable to take it back to the place of purchase or repair for inspection, as this will ensure that the warranty remains valid. Attempting to do repairs yourself may also result in further damage.
Leaving it to the experts
Instead of attempting to fix your watch at home, which could cost you more in the long run, we recommend leaving it to the professionals. A reliable watch repair centre has access to a wealth of knowledge, genuine parts, specialist equipment and tools whilst offering an extensive warranty on their services – giving you total peace of mind!
At AMJ Watch Repair, we offer a 12-month warranty as part of our all-encompassing watch service. From Rolex to Longines or Tag Heuer to Hublot — our watchmakers are well-versed in the repair and restoration of a wide range of watch brands. From new watch straps and batteries to watch glass replacement, water damage repair, watch restoration, and servicing. Start your watch repair today by posting your watch to us for a quote or by dropping by our workshop in Hatton Garden, London.
