Watch Servicing: How Often, What It Includes & Where to Go

Disclaimer: This article provides general guidance based on manufacturer recommendations and industry standards as of January 2026. Service intervals, costs, and procedures vary by brand, model, movement type, and individual watch condition. Always consult your watch's documentation or an authorised service centre for specific advice regarding your timepiece. Prices quoted are approximate and subject to change.

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Your mechanical watch contains over 100 components working in precise coordination. Lubricants degrade. Gaskets age. Microscopic wear accumulates with every tick. Proper servicing isn't optional maintenance: it's what separates watches that last generations from watches that fail prematurely.

This guide covers everything you need to know about keeping your watch running properly for decades.

Watch Service Costs by Brand (Singapore 2026)

Brand	Official Service (S$)	Independent (S$)	Interval
Rolex	800-1,500	400-800	10 years
Omega	600-1,200	350-700	5-8 years
Patek Philippe	1,500-5,000+	Not recommended	3-5 years
Audemars Piguet	1,200-3,000+	800-1,500	4-5 years
Cartier	500-1,500	300-600	5-7 years
TAG Heuer	400-800	250-500	4-6 years
Tudor	500-900	300-600	5-7 years
IWC	700-1,500	400-800	5-7 years

Official vs Independent Service: Which to Choose?

Factor	Official Service	Independent
Cost	Higher	30-50% less
Parts	Genuine guaranteed	Usually genuine
Warranty	2-year service warranty	1-year typical
Turnaround	4-8 weeks	1-3 weeks
Resale impact	Positive	Neutral to negative
For investment pieces	Recommended	Avoid
For daily wearers	Optional	Good value

Why Watch Servicing Matters

A mechanical watch movement operates continuously at 28,800 vibrations per hour (or more). That's over 250 million beats annually. The components achieving this are smaller than grains of rice, operating with tolerances measured in microns.

The lubricants reducing friction between these components don't last forever. Over time, they degrade, evaporate, or become contaminated. When lubricants fail, metal contacts metal directly. Friction increases. Wear accelerates. What starts as slightly degraded timekeeping becomes permanent damage to irreplaceable parts.

Modern synthetic lubricants last longer than the animal and vegetable oils used historically, but they still have finite lifespans. The question isn't whether your watch needs servicing: it's when.

Service Intervals by Brand

Manufacturers provide recommended service intervals based on their movements' design, lubricants used, and expected operating conditions. These recommendations have generally lengthened as lubricant technology has improved.

Brand	Recommended Interval	Notes
Rolex	10 years	Increased from 5 years in 2015 for modern movements
Omega	5-8 years	Annual water resistance check also recommended
Tudor	5-7 years	METAS-certified models may extend slightly
Patek Philippe	3-5 years	Complex complications may require more frequent service
Audemars Piguet	3-5 years	Royal Oak recommended every 4-5 years
IWC	5-7 years	Depends on model complexity
Cartier	5-7 years	Tank and Santos models
Breitling	4-6 years	Chronographs may need more frequent attention
TAG Heuer	4-6 years	Calibre-specific recommendations vary
Grand Seiko	3-4 years	Spring Drive movements may differ
Jaeger-LeCoultre	4-6 years	Reverso and complex models need regular attention
Panerai	4-5 years	Submersible models may need more frequent seal checks

Understanding These Intervals

These are guidelines, not guarantees. Several factors influence when your specific watch actually needs service:

Usage patterns: A watch worn daily experiences more wear than one worn occasionally. Daily wearers should service at the shorter end of recommended intervals. Environmental exposure: Watches regularly exposed to water, dust, temperature extremes, or magnetic fields may need earlier attention. Dive watches used for actual diving should have water resistance checked annually regardless of full service timing. Movement complexity: Chronographs, perpetual calendars, and other complications have more components and more points requiring lubrication. They typically need service more frequently than time-only movements. Watch age: Vintage movements (pre-1990s) often used different lubricants and materials. Many require service every 3-5 years regardless of manufacturer recommendations for modern calibres. Storage conditions: Watches stored in humid environments, extreme temperatures, or near magnetic sources may need earlier service even if worn infrequently.

What Happens During a Full Service

A complete watch service (also called an overhaul) follows a systematic process designed to restore the movement to factory specifications. While specific procedures vary by brand and model, the general sequence is consistent across the industry.

Pre-Service Assessment

Before disassembly begins, the watchmaker:

Step	Purpose
Visual inspection	Document case condition, crystal clarity, dial condition
Timing test	Measure current accuracy, amplitude, beat error
Water resistance test	Check if seals are compromised (pressure test)
Functional test	Verify all features operate (crown, pushers, date change)
Magnetic field check	Detect if movement is magnetised

This assessment establishes baseline condition and identifies any issues beyond normal service requirements.

Complete Disassembly

The movement is removed from the case and completely disassembled. Every component is separated:

• Mainspring removed from barrel
• Gear train dismantled
• Escapement disassembled
• Balance wheel and hairspring removed
• All bridges and plates separated
• Jewels cleaned or replaced if damaged

For chronograph movements, this includes the complete chronograph mechanism: coupling, hammer, levers, and chronograph wheels. Complex movements may have 200+ individual parts.

Cleaning

All components undergo ultrasonic cleaning in specialised solutions. This process:

Stage	Solution	Purpose
Pre-clean	Solvent solution	Remove old lubricants and gross contamination
Main clean	Ultrasonic cleaning fluid	Remove microscopic debris from all surfaces
Rinse	Clean solution	Remove cleaning fluid residue
Dry	Controlled heat/airflow	Prevent moisture retention

Parts are handled with brass tweezers or vacuum picks to avoid contamination from skin oils. A single fingerprint can compromise a cleaned component.

Inspection and Part Replacement

Each component is inspected under magnification. Worn parts are identified and replaced:

Commonly replaced during routine service:

• Mainspring (loses elasticity over time)
• Gaskets and seals (crown, caseback, pushers)
• Click spring
• Yoke spring
• Worn pivot jewels

Replaced if damaged or worn:

• Balance staff (if bent or worn)
• Hairspring (if damaged)
• Pallet jewels (if chipped)
• Gear wheels (if worn)
• Hands, dial, crystal (cosmetic)

Authorised service centres use genuine manufacturer parts. Independent watchmakers may use genuine parts (when available) or quality aftermarket equivalents.

Lubrication and Reassembly

This is the most critical phase. Each component must receive the correct lubricant, in the correct quantity, at the correct point.

Lubricant Type	Used For	Characteristics
Light synthetic oil (Moebius 9010)	Balance pivots, escape wheel, high-speed components	Low viscosity, minimal friction
Medium oil (HP 1300/Moebius 9104)	Barrel arbor, centre wheel, lower-speed components	Higher viscosity, greater staying power
Escapement grease	Pallet stones, escape wheel teeth	Thixotropic (cushions impact, flows smoothly)
Mainspring grease (Moebius 8200)	Mainspring coils	Prevents coils sticking
Silicone grease	Gaskets, crown threads	Maintains seal flexibility

A typical mechanical movement has 30-50 individual lubrication points. Each must receive precisely the right amount: too little causes dry running and wear; too much causes spreading, contamination, and performance issues.

Testing and Regulation

Once assembled, the movement undergoes extensive testing:

Test	Specification	Purpose
Timing (6 positions)	Brand-specific (e.g., Rolex: -2/+2 sec/day)	Verify accuracy across all wearing positions
Amplitude	270-310 degrees typical	Confirm healthy power delivery
Beat error	<0.5ms	Verify escapement geometry
Power reserve	Manufacturer spec (e.g., 70 hours)	Confirm mainspring and gear train health

If timing is outside specification, the watchmaker adjusts the regulator (on regulated movements) or the variable inertia weights (on free-sprung movements) until performance meets standards.

Case and Bracelet Refinishing (Optional)

Many services include cosmetic restoration:

Service	Process
Case polishing	Restore brushed and polished surfaces to original finish
Bracelet refinishing	Remove scratches, restore link surfaces
Crystal replacement	Replace scratched sapphire or acrylic
Lume reapplication	Restore luminous material (rarely done on luxury pieces)

Important consideration: On vintage watches or collectors' pieces, polishing may reduce value. Original finishes, even with wear, often matter more to collectors than cosmetic perfection. Discuss this with your watchmaker before authorising refinishing.

Final Assembly and Water Resistance Testing

The movement is cased, and final checks performed:

• Case sealed with new gaskets
• Bracelet reattached
• Final timing verification
• Water resistance testing (wet or dry method depending on rating)
• Final inspection under magnification

The watch is returned with documentation of work performed and warranty coverage on the service.

Signs Your Watch Needs Service

Don't wait for complete failure. These symptoms indicate service is due:

Timing Issues

Symptom	Likely Cause	Urgency
Losing 30+ seconds/day	Degraded lubricants, magnetism, worn parts	Service soon
Gaining 30+ seconds/day	Magnetism, hairspring issue	Check immediately
Erratic timekeeping	Multiple possible causes	Service soon
Stopping overnight (when worn daily)	Power delivery issues	Service needed

Mechanical Symptoms

Symptom	Likely Cause	Urgency
Crown feels gritty or stiff	Contamination, worn stem	Service soon
Crown won't screw down fully	Cross-threading, worn gasket	Service needed (water resistance compromised)
Date doesn't change at midnight	Calendar mechanism issue	Service needed
Chronograph won't reset to zero	Coupling or heart cam issue	Service needed
Rotor sounds excessively loud	Worn rotor bearing	Service soon

Visual Symptoms

Symptom	Likely Cause	Urgency
Condensation under crystal	Seal failure, water ingress	Emergency: service immediately
Dial discolouration	Water damage, age	Assess damage, likely service needed
Second hand stuttering or jumping	Escapement issue	Service needed
Hands loose or fallen off	Dropped or impact damage	Service needed

If you see condensation inside your watch, stop wearing it immediately. Water in the movement causes rapid oxidation (rust) that can destroy components within days. Remove the watch, store it crown-down in a dry environment, and deliver it for service as quickly as possible.

Service Costs

Service pricing varies significantly based on brand, movement complexity, and service provider. The following ranges provide general guidance for Singapore in 2026:

Authorised Service Centre Pricing

Brand/Model Type	Typical Service Cost (S$)
Rolex (time-only, e.g., Oyster Perpetual)	$800-1,000
Rolex (Submariner, GMT-Master)	$1,000-1,400
Rolex (Daytona chronograph)	$1,200-1,800
Omega (Seamaster, Speedmaster)	$600-1,000
Tudor (Black Bay)	$500-800
Patek Philippe (time-only)	$1,500-2,500
Patek Philippe (complications)	$3,000-8,000+
Audemars Piguet (Royal Oak)	$1,500-2,500
Cartier (Tank, Santos)	$600-1,000

These are base service costs. Part replacements add to the total. A mainspring replacement might add S$50-150. A crystal replacement S$100-400. Extensive parts requirements can double or triple the base service cost.

Independent Watchmaker Pricing

Qualified independent watchmakers typically charge 30-50% less than authorised service centres:

Service Type	Typical Cost (S$)
Basic service (time-only, ETA/Sellita)	$200-400
Full overhaul (Rolex)	$400-700
Full overhaul (Omega)	$350-600
Full overhaul (complex chronograph)	$500-1,000
Water resistance check only	$30-80
Magnetism removal (demagnetisation)	$20-50

Trade-off: Lower cost, but no brand warranty on the service and potentially aftermarket parts. For daily wearers or non-collectors, this often makes financial sense. For investment pieces or watches requiring authenticity for resale, authorised service may be worth the premium.

Authorised vs Independent Service

Authorised Service Centres

Advantages	Disadvantages
Genuine manufacturer parts guaranteed	Higher cost
Brand-trained technicians	May replace "acceptable" parts unnecessarily
Service warranty from manufacturer	Longer turnaround times (4-12 weeks)
Maintains brand service history	May refuse service on modified watches
Authenticates watch during service	Less flexibility on cosmetic choices

Choose authorised service for:

• Watches under warranty
• Investment-grade pieces where provenance matters
• Complex complications requiring specialist knowledge
• Situations where brand service history affects value

Independent Watchmakers

Advantages	Disadvantages
Significantly lower cost	No manufacturer warranty on service
Faster turnaround (1-4 weeks typical)	Parts sourcing may be challenging
More flexibility on vintage pieces	Quality varies significantly between providers
Won't refuse modified watches	May use aftermarket parts
Can discuss specific preferences	Less formal documentation

Choose independent service for:

• Daily wearers where cost-efficiency matters
• Vintage watches where authorised service is unavailable
• Modified watches rejected by authorised centres
• Situations where budget is primary concern

Finding a Qualified Independent Watchmaker

Not all independent watchmakers are equal. Look for:

Qualification	Why It Matters
WOSTEP certification	Indicates formal Swiss watchmaking training
Brand-specific training	Shows exposure to manufacturer standards
Experience with your brand/movement	Familiarity reduces risk
Proper equipment	Timing machines, ultrasonic cleaners, pressure testers
Clear communication	Willing to explain work and discuss options
Warranty on service	Confidence in their work

Request references. Ask about their experience with your specific calibre. Visit their workshop if possible to assess professionalism and equipment.

Where to Service Your Watch in Singapore

Authorised Service Centres

Rolex Service Centre Singapore

• Address: 302 Orchard Road #01-01 Tong Building, Singapore 238862
• Phone: +65 6737 9033
• Note: The only official Rolex Service Centre in Singapore. Appointment recommended.

Omega Service Centre

• Omega maintains authorised service capabilities through The Hour Glass and other authorised retailers
• Contact Omega boutiques at ION Orchard, Marina Bay Sands, or Takashimaya for service booking

Tudor, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Other Brands

• Service through respective brand boutiques or authorised retailers
• Cortina Watch, The Hour Glass, and Sincere Fine Watches handle service for multiple brands

Independent Service Options

Several reputable independent watchmakers operate in Singapore. These are referenced in collector communities and have established track records:

Global Watch Service Centre

• Swiss-trained technicians with 30+ years combined experience
• Services most major Swiss brands
• Official service centre for Maurice Lacroix and Dunhill
• Multiple locations

Chuan Watch Horology

• Family-owned since 1995
• Founded by former Rolex watchmaker Henry Lim
• WOSTEP-certified watchmakers
• Services from S$800 for full overhaul

Watch Exchange Singapore (Watchlab)

• Swiss-trained technical team
• 16+ years experience
• Rolex servicing from S$600
• Services major luxury brands including Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet

K2 Watch Company

• Located at Tanjong Katong Complex
• Services Rolex, Omega, Seiko, and ETA-based watches
• Recommended in collector forums
• Open 2pm-9pm

Important: This is not an exhaustive list, and inclusion does not constitute endorsement. Always conduct your own due diligence, request references, and discuss specific requirements before committing your watch to any service provider.

Maintaining Your Watch Between Services

Proper care extends service intervals and preserves your watch's condition.

Daily Habits

Do	Don't
Wind manual watches gently and consistently	Overwind or wind roughly
Screw down crowns fully before water exposure	Assume water resistance without testing
Rinse after saltwater or pool exposure	Leave salt/chlorine residue on case
Store in stable, moderate humidity	Store in extreme heat, cold, or humidity
Wipe down with soft cloth after wearing	Use chemicals or abrasives to clean

Storage

Recommendation	Reason
Store in watch box or roll	Protects from dust, scratches, and impact
Keep away from speakers, phones, magnets	Prevents magnetisation
Maintain moderate humidity (40-60%)	Prevents gasket degradation and condensation
Store automatic watches on winder (optional)	Keeps lubricants distributed; not essential
Keep original box and papers	Maintains value and service history

For storage guidance, see collector's guide to watch storage.

What Watch Winders Do (and Don't Do)

Watch winders keep automatic watches running by simulating wrist movement. They're convenient for watches with complex calendar functions that are tedious to reset. However:

• Winders don't eliminate service requirements
• Continuous running may marginally increase wear
• Quality winders with proper rotation settings are essential
• Poor-quality winders can damage movements

For winder guidance, see do watch winders damage watches.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Mistake	Consequence
Setting date between 9pm-3am	Can damage date mechanism
Operating chronograph underwater	Can breach water resistance
Exposing to strong magnets	Causes accuracy issues (often fixable)
Ignoring water ingress signs	Causes permanent movement damage
DIY repairs without training	Often causes more damage than it fixes

For detailed maintenance guidance, see 7 costly watch maintenance mistakes.

Service Records and Documentation

Maintaining service records matters for both watch health and value.

What to Keep

Document	Purpose
Original purchase receipt	Proves authenticity and ownership
Warranty card	Required for warranty claims
Service receipts	Documents maintenance history
Work order details	Records specific work performed
Part replacement records	Shows what was changed and when

Impact on Value

Complete service history positively impacts resale value, particularly for:

• Vintage watches (proves continuous care)
• Investment-grade pieces (Rolex, Patek Philippe)
• Watches with complex movements
• Recently serviced watches (buyer confidence)

A watch with documented authorised service history typically commands 10-20% premium over identical pieces without records.

FAQ

How long does a watch service take?

Authorised service centres typically require 4-12 weeks depending on brand and workload. Some brands quote 8-16 weeks for complex movements. Independent watchmakers usually complete work in 1-4 weeks. Always confirm estimated turnaround before committing your watch.

Can I extend service intervals if my watch runs fine?

Running "fine" doesn't mean running optimally. Lubricants can degrade without obvious symptoms until wear has already occurred. While some watches run decades without service, this isn't recommended practice. The risk of accelerated wear typically outweighs the cost savings of delayed service.

Will servicing my watch void its warranty?

Authorised service during warranty maintains warranty coverage. Independent service during the warranty period may void remaining warranty. After warranty expires, service by qualified independents doesn't affect the watch negatively. Future authorised service remains available regardless of past independent work.

Should I service a watch I don't wear often?

Lubricants degrade through time as well as use. A watch sitting unworn for years still needs service because lubricants oxidise, evaporate, and lose effectiveness. Service intervals apply based on time elapsed, not just wear time. However, a watch worn once monthly probably needs service less urgently than a daily wearer.

Is it worth servicing an inexpensive watch?

When service cost approaches or exceeds replacement cost, the decision becomes economic rather than horological. A S$300 service on a S$200 watch rarely makes financial sense unless the watch has sentimental value. For watches worth S$1,000+, proper service is almost always justified.

Can magnetisation be fixed without full service?

Yes. Demagnetisation is a quick, inexpensive procedure (S$20-50) that doesn't require disassembly. If your watch suddenly runs significantly fast (30+ seconds per day) but otherwise functions normally, magnetisation is likely. A watchmaker can confirm and fix this in minutes. Full service isn't required unless other issues exist.

What's the difference between service, overhaul, and restoration?

Terminology varies, but generally: "Service" often refers to basic maintenance (timing adjustment, seal replacement, cleaning). "Overhaul" implies complete disassembly, cleaning, lubrication, and reassembly. "Restoration" typically includes cosmetic work (refinishing, parts replacement) beyond mechanical service. Always clarify exactly what's included when receiving quotes.

Do quartz watches need servicing?

Quartz watches need battery replacement every 2-5 years. Full service (gasket replacement, cleaning, lubrication of setting mechanism) is recommended every 7-10 years. The urgency is lower than mechanical watches because quartz movements have fewer moving parts and operate under less stress.

What if my watch was damaged during service?

Authorised service centres carry insurance and will address damage caused during service. Independent watchmakers should also have coverage. Before service, document your watch's condition with photographs. If damage occurs, address it directly with the service provider. If resolution fails, consumer protection channels exist in Singapore through CASE (Consumers Association of Singapore).

MINT Conclusion

A well-maintained watch can last generations. An improperly maintained one can fail within years. The difference is regular, professional servicing performed by qualified technicians using proper techniques and genuine parts.

But even perfectly maintained watches face risks that servicing can't prevent: theft, loss, accidental damage, and unforeseen events. Your S$1,000 service bill preserves a watch that might be worth S$10,000 or more. If that watch is stolen or damaged beyond repair, the service investment provides no protection.

MINT provides specialist watch insurance designed to protect your timepieces against the risks that proper maintenance cannot address. Whether you've just serviced your Rolex at the authorised centre or your Tudor at a trusted independent, appropriate insurance ensures that your investment in both the watch and its maintenance is protected against loss.

For more information, see watch insurance in Singapore.

FAQ

How often should I service my luxury watch?

Modern luxury watches can go 7-10 years between services with regular wear. Rolex now recommends 10-year intervals. Vintage watches and complications need more frequent attention, typically every 3-5 years.

Should I use official service or independent watchmaker?

For investment-grade pieces (Patek Philippe, rare Rolex), use official service to preserve value. For daily wearers you plan to keep, quality independent watchmakers offer good value at 30-50% less cost.

How do I know if my watch needs servicing?

Signs include: losing or gaining more than 10-15 seconds per day, power reserve noticeably shorter, crown feels gritty when winding, and water resistance concerns. If uncertain, have a watchmaker test accuracy and water resistance.

Will servicing damage my watch's value?

Proper servicing maintains value. Neglected watches need expensive overhauls and show wear. Service records from official channels add value. The only exception is over-polishing vintage cases, which can reduce collector value.

What's included in a full service?

Complete movement disassembly and cleaning, worn parts replacement, re-lubrication, timing regulation, case and bracelet refinishing (optional), gasket replacement, and water resistance testing. Takes 4-8 weeks at official centres.

Where can I get my watch serviced in Singapore?

Official service centres exist for most major brands (Rolex at Thong Sia, Omega at Swatch Group). Reputable independents include SwissSAV, Watchcraft, and several specialists at Far East Plaza. Always verify credentials before leaving your watch.

Protect Your Watch Collection

Own a luxury timepiece? Make sure it's properly protected. MINT provides specialist watch insurance in Singapore covering theft, loss, and accidental damage worldwide. From $8/month for comprehensive coverage trusted by Singapore collectors.

• Watch Insurance Singapore – Complete coverage guide
• How to Insure Your Rolex – Step-by-step guide
• Dealer Insurance – For watch businesses