Answers to some frequently asked questions
Can you repair the watch my grandparent gave me?
Yes, I often can. Often parts are available for older watches, though they can be hard to find. If the case is gold or stainless steel we can also polish and restore the case and bracelet to its former look. You can wear your grandparent’s watch and restore fond memories whenever you need to check the time!
Can you replace the battery in my watch?
Yes, I can. If the battery alone is not the problem I will let you know how much the repair will cost. I can pressure test your watch and polish the case and bracelet at the same time — you’ll love the look!
Can you repair my solar powered watch?
Yes, generally I can. Sometimes only the capacitor needs replacement, sometimes the watch needs to be cleaned or the movement replaced.
Why should I replace the battery in my watch when I can buy a new watch for €10?
If all you want to know is the time, then perhaps the new €10 watch is the best option. However, if you enjoy your watch and it looks good on you or has sentimental value, why not repair it and wear it?
The winding part fell off my watch. Can you repair my watch?
The winding part, called the “crown” is attached to the watch with a straight part called a “stem.” Yes, I can replace just the crown, or the stem and crown. This would be a “partial job.” I may, however recommend a complete movement service as dust and dirt may have entered the watch which could cause the watch to stop soon after the repair. Also, if the stem and crown fell off because the watch was accidentally dropped or hit then there may be more damage to the watch which could cause the watch to stop running at a later date.
Will my watch repair be guaranteed?
Watch Works provides a limited one-year warranty on all complete jobs — complete movement service, cleaning and overhaul, or movement exchange. The warranty is for defects in material and workmanship. If your watch is dropped or damaged or gets rusty generally the watch is not covered under the warranty, however I will try to work with you to get your watch back in service since you are a valued customer!
Is a movement exchange as good as a complete movement service?
For many quartz watches, if a brand new movement is available, I can replace your damaged movement with a new one for less cost to you. I use movements of the same or better quality as what is already in your watch. Movement exchanges are considered full repairs and carry a one-year warranty.
Can you replace only the clasp on my watch bracelet?
Many times I can, depending on the make and model.
Can I ship my watch to Watch Works?
Yes you can by registered post.
How well will my mechanical watch keep time after it is repaired at Watch Works?
Much will depend on the type of watch movement, as well as the age of the watch. New, modern, high quality chronometers can keep time to a few seconds a week, while older mechanical watches may only be accurate to a few minutes a week. It all depends on the watch, the age and condition of the movement, how you wear and wind your watch.
What is a scratch resistant or sapphire crystal?
A sapphire crystal is a scratch resistant crystal that will give you much better service than a regular crystal. If your crystal is in frequent need of replacement, you may want to try a sapphire crystal for better wear.
Does Watch Works repair vintage pocket watches?
Yes I can, Foreign made or much older pocket watches can sometimes be repaired if I am able to find parts.
Can you polish my watch?
If your watch is stainless steel or gold (not plated) I can often polish your watch and bracelet to bring back its original beauty. If your watch is quartz and needs a battery, a new battery, pressure test and polishing will bring new life and beauty to your old favourite.
The calendar on my watch gets stuck. Can that be repaired?
Calendar issues are common. The day or date changing mechanism can malfunction or the calendar “wheel” can get bent. Usually a complete movement service or movement exchange will be necessary to repair your watch.
My watch only needs a mainspring. Can you put a new mainspring in my watch?
The mainspring is where the power to run the watch is stored when you wind your watch. To repair or replace the mainspring the watch must be disassembled. A complete movement service is necessary to assure that your watch will run properly.