We have experience in working on many watch brands including Rolex, Omega, Seiko, Tag Heuer, Cartier, Longines, Tudor, Hamilton, Breitling, IWC, Panerai, Zenith, Cartier and many more.
The watch movement is de-cased and fully dismantled. All the individual movement components are ultra-sonically cleaned. Any parts that are in need of replacement are ordered are replaced.
All components that require it are oiled and the watch mechanism is then rebuilt back to its working form. Seals and gaskets are replaced if needed. Your watch is then electronically timed, undergoes a specific testing process relevant to watch features (such as waterproofing, GMT, date and so on).
Conscious that customers are putting their beloved timepieces in the hands of our watchmaking horologists, we offer additional benefits for peace of mind, from images of worn parts that show how the damage may have occurred, to videos of the watch itself being serviced.
Here are some frequently asked questions around watch servicing:
Why is it important to have your watch regularly serviced?
A service is needed to clean the movement and re-lubricate. This will ensure the expected timekeeping is within normal tolerances and prevent the oils from drying, which can potentially damage the movement. If movement parts become damaged, you may notice the watch loses or gains time, or ultimately completely stops, something we often see with watches that are well overdue for a service. It also allows the seals and gaskets to be replaced so that the watch can remain water resistant where applicable. At Prestige Watches, we provide a two-year warranty as standard following a service.
How often should a mechanical watch be serviced?
Every four to five years on average but some new watch models (such as Omega Co-Axial watches) can go a few years longer.
What are the advantages of getting your watch serviced by a third party, rather than by the brand?
From what we have seen and what I have experienced, the main brands, as a whole, have very good servicing procedures and truly do put the customer first.
An open mind on the issues that matter
However, due to the sheer volume of watches they receive, we are able to typically offer a more appealing turnaround time and ultimately a more personal service. With Prestige Watches you get the best of both worlds, as we have watchmakers trained by the brands and we use the original parts and tools.
What should you look for when choosing which company to service your watch?
Firstly, experience, knowledge and professionalism. This helps give customers confidence in you that then leads to trust. ensure that the watchmakers have had the appropriate training by the brand to work on your watch. Although many of the movements may be the same, there are significant variations and the finishing and polishing of the case and bracelet must be exactly how the manufacturer intended, which takes significant training in itself.
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