Does My Watch Need Servicing? Here’s How to Tell

Regular servicing is essential to maintain the performance and longevity of your watch.

Rixson Repairs, a reputable watch repair service based in Hastings, England, emphasizes that servicing matters more in the long term as technology improves. Modern watch oils provide significantly better performance and protection but are less likely to thicken and stop a watch. If a watch is not serviced regularly (roughly every 3–5 years), significant wear can occur, as the oil mixed with dirt creates a grinding paste that rapidly wears the parts. 

We are very busy workshop but feel free to ask for photos- showing dried oils or debris within the movement.  A watchmaker should always be able to show you why the work needs to undertaken.

Here are some signs that indicate your watch may need servicing:

1. Inaccurate Timekeeping

If your watch is consistently gaining or losing time beyond the manufacturer’s specifications, it may be due to dried lubricants or internal wear.

2. Stopped Movement or Power Issues

For automatic watches, if the movement stops despite regular wear, or for quartz watches, if a new battery doesn’t resolve the issue, there may be underlying mechanical problems.

3. Unusual Sounds

Hearing rattling, grinding, or clicking noises from your watch could indicate loose or damaged components within the movement.

4. Stiff or Malfunctioning Crown and Buttons

Difficulty in operating the crown or pushers can be a sign of worn gaskets or internal debris, affecting the watch’s functionality and water resistance.