Finding a Watch Service Near Me
If you own an expensive mechanical watch, it’s worth getting it serviced on a regular basis to ensure it works properly and stays looking great. However, there are a lot of different options when it comes to watch repair, and choosing the right shop can be a difficult decision.
A full overhaul is the most comprehensive watch service and usually requires taking the movement apart to look for any problems. This can be especially tricky with vintage watches, where the tiny parts are more likely to have issues.
While there are some online watch services that offer this, it is usually a good idea to visit a physical location and work with a horologist in person to make sure they understand the intricacies of your timepiece. This way, you can ask questions and make sure you’re on the same page about what needs to be done.
One thing to look out for in a watch repair service is cleanliness. A clean workshop is important for anyone working on watches because small pieces can get easily contaminated by dirt and grease. This can also cause the watch to stop functioning properly or may even damage it in the long run. A horologist should have a clean workspace and a set of specialized tools for working on watches. Among these tools are eye loupes, a pair of tweezers, and a benzine jar (with degreasing fluid) to remove any dirt from the watch’s internal parts.
Once your watch has been cleaned and stripped down it will need to be oiled. This is a delicate process and can be complicated as there are many different types of oils that can be used. A horologist will usually use a special lubricating oil that will ensure your watch is not over-oiled or under-oiled, which could damage it. They will also use a fine brush to remove any excess oil from the watch’s movement.
Lastly, a horologist will polish your watch so it has that original shine that you remember from the first day you ever saw it. This is a delicate process that requires the help of trained surface finishers to sand and polish each piece. Then the watch will be rhodium-plated to enhance its luster and give it that extra touch of luxury.
If your watch has a problem, contact the manufacturer or a reputable watch repair shop for a quote. They will often be able to fix the problem for free or for a small fee, depending on the issue and your warranty terms. If you’re not covered by a warranty, it is usually cheaper to go with a reputable watch repair service to avoid paying for more repairs in the future. watch service near me