Servicing at our Melbourne workshop starts with an assessment. We explain the findings and quote before you approve service work, with movement work done in-house. Changes in timekeeping, a watch that stops unexpectedly or uncertain water resistance are reasons to have it checked. They do not all call for the same repair.
The signs a watch may need a service
Low amplitude. In a mechanical watch, amplitude describes how far the balance swings from its resting position. A watchmaker measures it as part of an assessment. A low reading needs to be interpreted for the movement and test conditions, alongside other findings. It is not a diagnosis on its own. We include amplitude checks when assessing mechanical watches for consignment.
It is not keeping time. If your watch has started gaining or losing noticeably more time than usual, have it assessed. The relevant timing specification depends on the model and movement. An original chronometer certificate is not a promise that a watch will stay within one daily tolerance throughout its life. Rolex’s precision guidance also distinguishes movement certification from testing the finished watch.
It has stopped unexpectedly. Tell us when it last ran, how it has been used and any service history you have. A stopped watch needs assessment before the cause or repair can be identified. The amplitude and movement-service guidance here concerns mechanical watches; quartz watches require different checks.
You are not sure it is still water resistant. Do not rely on an old depth rating alone. Ageing seals or damage can affect water resistance, and the individual watch needs assessment. OMEGA’s care guidance explains why water resistance needs ongoing checks. Ask about an appropriate test and the intended use before submerging an older watch. Its age alone does not establish its present water resistance.
You are about to sell it. An assessment can help establish whether servicing is needed before a sale. If a consignment watch needs a service, we quote it at trade price, with the agreed cost deducted from the final selling price. You see the service proposal, fees and payout arrangement before signing a consignment agreement. Servicing does not guarantee an increase in the amount you receive.
Follow the manufacturer’s care and service guidance for your model as well as investigating changes in how it runs. There is no single service interval for every Swiss watch.
Not sure which of these signs applies to your watch? Discuss a service assessment with our Melbourne workshop before approving any work.
What a service covers
Assessment and quote. The watch is assessed and the findings are explained before service work is agreed.
Movement service. A mechanical movement service involves stripping down, cleaning, lubricating and regulating the movement, with parts replaced where needed. The quote sets out the work proposed for your watch.
Testing and timing. Timing, amplitude and power reserve are checked before a serviced mechanical watch leaves the bench.
Case and bracelet refinishing. Cosmetic wear is a separate issue from movement condition. Refinishing is optional work to discuss before approving it, including which surfaces would be changed and what result is realistic for the watch. Michael began in case refinishing, and the workshop still does this work in-house. See before-and-after restoration examples from our workshop.
You hear the condition, proposed work and options before deciding whether to proceed.
Do you quote before doing any work?
We assess the watch first and quote before starting the agreed service or repair. Ask about any assessment charge when arranging the inspection.
Check the warranty before arranging outside work
If you bought the watch from us, contact us before having another repairer open or dismantle it. Our written warranty has conditions concerning outside work. Check any remaining manufacturer’s warranty separately. For example, Rolex states that third-party work invalidates its guarantee. The applicable terms depend on the brand and warranty. These voluntary warranties do not replace your rights under the Australian Consumer Law.
Sending a watch from interstate
Contact us before sending your watch to Melbourne. Confirm that we can accept the watch, who arranges each delivery and the agreed value, insurance cover, limits and exclusions for the journey. Confirm return arrangements as well. A parcel you arrange yourself should not be assumed to fall under our cover.
Ask about your Swiss watch
For a proposed Rolex service, our guide to understanding the quote explains the costs and work to discuss before approval.