How Often to Service a Watch: Expert Tips

Written By: Vahid Moradi

Owning a luxury timepiece comes with more than prestige—it comes with responsibility. Staying on top of watch service is one of the smartest ways to protect your investment. Most watches benefit from a full service every 3 to 5 years, but the exact timing depends on several factors, like the type of movement, how often you wear it, and even the climate you live in.

Whether you're keeping a daily wearer in top shape or preserving a collector’s piece, understanding how often to service a watch is key. Let’s break down what impacts your service schedule and how to care for your timepiece over time.

Why Regular Watch Servicing Matters

A well-serviced watch doesn’t just tell accurate time—it upholds the integrity of its movement, safeguards its value, and prevents more expensive repairs down the road. Think of it like taking a high-performance car in for a tune-up. The inner workings of a mechanical watch are intricate, with delicate gears, springs, and oils that naturally break down over time.

Without regular cleaning and lubrication, even the most robust timepieces can suffer from friction, moisture damage, or loss of accuracy. Servicing ensures that worn parts are replaced before they cause bigger issues, extending the life of your timepiece for decades or even generations.

How Often to Service a Watch (by Type)

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to watch service intervals. Instead, the frequency depends largely on the type of watch movement you own.¹

Mechanical Watches

If you’re wondering how often to service mechanical watch models, the general recommendation is every 3 to 5 years. These timepieces rely entirely on gears and springs, meaning there are no electronics involved—just pure engineering. The oils inside a mechanical watch dry out over time, which can cause the movement to slow down or seize.

Automatic Watches

An automatic watch uses similar mechanics to a manual one but winds itself through wrist movement. If you wear your automatic watch regularly, service every 4 to 6 years is typically sufficient. However, watches stored for long periods without running may need service sooner due to stagnant oils.

Quartz Watches

Quartz models have fewer moving parts, which means they generally require less frequent servicing. Still, it’s a good idea to get your quartz watch checked every 5 to 7 years. A professional should perform battery replacements to avoid damaging internal components. Over time, even quartz movements benefit from cleaning and inspection.

Factors That Influence Service Frequency

Even with general guidelines, your watch may need service more frequently depending on how and where it’s used. Here’s what can affect your ideal service intervals:

• Brand: Luxury brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Cartier often have specific recommendations and proprietary technologies that require brand-specific care.
• Environment: Humid climates, dusty conditions, or exposure to water can accelerate wear and tear, especially if seals begin to degrade. Proper watch storage can help protect your timepiece from these environmental factors when it’s not being worn.
• Wear Frequency: A watch worn daily accumulates more micro-abrasions, dirt, and movement strain than a piece saved for special occasions.
• Water Resistance: If you swim or dive with your watch, annual water resistance checks are a must-have. Gaskets can dry out and fail, allowing moisture to enter the case and compromise the movement.

Signs Your Watch Needs Immediate Servicing

Don’t wait for your routine maintenance window if your watch is showing signs of trouble. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to get your watch serviced as soon as possible:

• Timekeeping issues (running too fast, too slow, or stopping entirely)
• Fogging or condensation under the crystal
• The crown or pushers feel stiff or unresponsive
• Difficulty winding or a power reserve that seems shorter than usual
• The watch isn’t ticking or sweeping as it should

These signs could indicate dried oils, worn components, or water ingress—problems that can escalate quickly if ignored.

Where to Get Your Watch Serviced

When it’s time to service a watch, quality matters. Always choose a certified watchmaker with experience handling your specific brand. While some basic maintenance tasks can be performed in-house by trusted retailers, full movement overhauls require specialized tools, genuine replacement parts, and deep knowledge of the model.

At CJ Charles, our expert watchmakers provide comprehensive watch servicing that preserves both performance and value. Whether you're dealing with a vintage watch that requires gentle care or a modern timepiece built for adventure, we work with precision and discretion, offering expert watch care tips along the way to help you keep your piece performing at its best between service intervals.

Trusted Brands That Require Specialized Servicing

Some luxury manufacturers have proprietary movements and servicing protocols. Here are a few notable examples:

Rolex

Known for their robust function and precision, Rolex watches often require routine pressure tests, movement calibration, and case refinishing. Expect to service a Rolex every 5 to 10 years, depending on use.

Cartier

A Cartier timepiece blends horological excellence with jewelry-level aesthetics. These watches may need additional attention to preserve their finish and complicated movements, particularly models featuring chronographs or moon phases.

Patek Philippe

Owning a Patek Philippe means owning a legacy. Their complex calibers and handmade components require master-level watchmakers and specialized tools. For collectors, staying on top of service is not only about performance—it’s about preserving an heirloom.

Final Thoughts on Watch Servicing

Knowing how often to service a watch isn’t just a matter of time—it’s about protecting what makes your timepiece extraordinary. Whether you wear it every day or reserve it for special occasions, consistent care helps maintain its accuracy, value, and longevity.

If you’re ever unsure when to service a watch, consider both the age and behavior of your timepiece. And when in doubt, consult a certified expert who understands the craftsmanship behind luxury watches.

At CJ Charles, our master watchmakers offer specialized service tailored to some of the world’s most respected brands, helping you preserve the performance and prestige of every timepiece you own.

 

Written By: Vahid Moradi

Vahid Moradi’s lifelong passion, dedication, and commitment for the jewelry industry led him to become the respected owner of CJ Charles Jewelers in 1988. From that moment, Moradi’s single focus in business was to become recognized as the pinnacle of value and world-class quality in the his Community. Over 34 years later, CJ Charles continues to grow and thrive as a successful, family-owned business that consistently provides exceptional service to all their clientele.

 

Sources: 

1. Gentleman’s Gazette. Watch Movements Explained: Quartz vs Mechanical vs Automatic. https://www.gentlemansgazette.com/watch-movements-explained/