Why Automatic Watches Need Servicing

Automatic movements run on lubricating oils — thin, specialized oils applied to bearings, the escapement and the mainspring. Over time, these oils break down: they dry, become sticky or migrate away from the surfaces they protect. When oils degrade, friction increases, accuracy suffers and components can experience accelerated wear. No modern lubricant lasts indefinitely inside a sealed watch movement.

Additionally, gaskets — the rubber seals at the caseback, crown and crystal that maintain water resistance — harden and crack with age and UV exposure. A watch that was fully waterproof when new may no longer be after 5 years without attention to these seals.

When to Service Your Watch

The general recommendation for modern automatic movements is every 5-8 years under normal conditions. This applies to quality movements like the Seiko NH35/NH36, Orient F6724 and ETA 2824 (used in Tissot movements). Older vintage movements and lower-quality budget calibers may benefit from more frequent attention.

Signs that your watch needs servicing before schedule:

Significant accuracy decline: Your watch is gaining or losing significantly more than its normal daily rate (more than ±30 seconds/day beyond its usual behavior)
Stopping unexpectedly: The watch stops despite being worn regularly and/or having a full power reserve
Rough crown operation: The crown feels gritty or uneven when winding or setting
Recent impact: The watch was dropped or struck — movement components can shift or break from impact
Water exposure beyond rating: If moisture enters the case, immediate service is needed

What a Full Service Involves

A full service from a qualified watchmaker is a thorough process:

Disassembly: The movement is completely disassembled into individual components
Ultrasonic cleaning: All metal parts are cleaned in an ultrasonic bath to remove old oil, debris and oxidation
Inspection: Each component is examined under magnification for wear, damage or defects
Part replacement: Worn components — typically mainsprings, jewels if damaged, gaskets — are replaced
Lubrication: Fresh watchmaker-grade lubricants are applied to all specified friction points
Reassembly and adjustment: The movement is reassembled and timed on a timing machine to confirm it's running within specification
Case service: The caseback and crown seals are replaced; water resistance is re-tested
Final timing: The finished watch is tested for accuracy over several days in multiple positions

Service Costs — Realistic Expectations

Service costs vary widely depending on the movement complexity and the watchmaker's location and expertise. For common movements in our catalog:

Seiko NH35/NH36 (Seiko 5 Sports, Invicta Pro Diver): Basic service typically $100-200 from a competent independent watchmaker. Parts are inexpensive and widely available.
Orient F6724 (Orient Bambino): Similar range, $100-200, with Orient-authorized service centers available in the US
ETA 2824 / Tissot Powermatic 80 (Tissot models): Swiss movement service, $200-400 from qualified watchmakers; Tissot offers manufacturer service

These figures are general references, not guarantees. Always request a quote before authorizing service, and ask what's included in the service scope.

Finding a Qualified Watchmaker

In the US, the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute (AWCI) maintains a registry of certified watchmakers — a good starting point for finding qualified service providers. Brand-authorized service centers offer the highest confidence for brand-specific work. Independent watchmakers often offer competitive pricing for common movements like the NH35 and Orient calibers.

Avoid general jewelry store repairs for mechanical watches unless they have a dedicated watchmaker on staff. Mechanical watch servicing requires specialized tools and training that general jewelers may not have.

Between Services — Daily Care

Good daily habits extend the time between services. For detailed guidance on cleaning, storage and daily wear, see our complete watch care guide. For storage best practices, see our watch storage and winders guide.

Browse our automatic watch selection or explore all watch guides for more buying and ownership resources.