Watch Repair

From LoveToKnow Watches

Watch repair may seem like a simple thing, but due to all of the small and intricate parts found in a watch, it is actually quite a difficult task. People who repair watches possess a steady hand and a patient eye, and they often get to work on some pretty interesting pieces! Come along and read this information about the world of watch repair.

Working As a Watch Repair Employee

Working in the watch repair field can be an arduous task. You are constantly huddled under a bright light staring at pieces so small that it is sure to make the typical person crosseyed. It is also not a job for people who tend to be impatient, as you have to go slow and steady when repairing such delicate items that are someone else's belongings.

It is also difficult to get work in watch repair because the stores are so competitive. People aren't exactly banging down doors with broken watches, and so you really do need to corner the market if you are going to make a career at it. On the flip side, good repairmen can make over $100,000 a year if they play their cards right.

Getting Antiques Repaired

Whenever you take anything valuable to get repaired, it is recommended that you take pictures of it, both inside and out. You should also write down any serial numbers or other distinctive markings on the watch. Because most people find their watch repair store just by perusing through the yellow pages, it is a good idea to have this information on file in case something goes wrong at the repair shop. The pictures may also be useful for the repair service so that they can make sure that they put everything back together exactly as it was.

Maintaining a Watch

Vintage watches should be serviced as soon as they are purchased and then again a few years after that. Regular every day watches can be taken in less frequently than that. Don't wait for your watch to stop working before you take it in. Would you wait for your teeth to fall out before going to the dentist? Take care of your watch like you would take care of yourself or any other valuable item you have acquired.

With non-water resistant watches, You should get them cleaned immediately if the insides (movement) ever gets wet, or even if you just see moisture forming on the inside of the crystal. Don't trust the "water proofing" on vintage wrist watches, treat them like pocket watches and non-water resistant wrist watches.

How Much Does It Cost?

Watch repair is an art just like anything else that is specialized, and so it can get quite pricey. It can also take some time, so don't expect to get your watch returned to you that same day. Quotes range from $20-500, but be cautious with the higher end quotes. You want to make sure that you get your money's worth, so ask a friend or family member to reccommend a reputable place for you. Standard prices usually fall within the $50-150 range for simple services.

Can I Repair My Own Watch?

It's never a good idea. Much like you wouldn't want to fly the commercial jet taking you on vacation or fight a fire without proper training, you need to actually know what you are doing before you set out to repair a watch. The pieces of a watch are very, very delicate and it is rarely an easy task. Accidentally bending even the smallest piece slightly can make the entire watch unrepairable.

So when you need watch repair, take it to a pro!

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