Watch Service
After a service, sometimes called an overhaul, your watch will run for years again without needing attention. It is completely disassembled, cleaned and lubricated. It is then regulated and tested for water resistance.
What is a service?
Dozens of parts move continuously past one another in a mechanical movement. Oil hardens, and dirt and dust cause wear. The result is that the movement keeps time less and less accurately.
In a service the movement is completely disassembled. Every part is inspected and then cleaned in a watch cleaning machine. The movement is then reassembled and lubricated according to professional guidelines. The watch is regulated until it keeps time as accurately as possible. Finally new gaskets are fitted. Water resistance can be tested as well.
See below a summary of a service on a 1950s Omega Bumper automatic.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a service and an overhaul?
There is no difference between an overhaul and a service. The term overhaul is sometimes used for a "full service", and service for a kind of limited maintenance where the movement is not disassembled and only the easily reachable parts are re-oiled. Neovintage only does full services, because the value of partial maintenance is unclear and can sometimes even work against you.
How often does my watch need a service?
Five to seven years used to be the standard advice. The synthetic oils and greases used to lubricate movements today are so good, though, that this no longer holds as general advice. For a well-sealed case an interval of ten years or more is often fine, as long as the watch runs well. A vintage watch with a poorer case, which does not keep dust, dirt and moisture out completely, will need a service more often.
Will my watch be sent off to a service centre?
No. All the work is done in the workshop in Weesp, by a certified service technician.
Can I get a quote?
Yes. You get a quote before any work starts, and nothing begins until you have agreed to it.
What warranty do I get?
Two years on a service, one year on other work.
How long does a service take?
There is no saying in advance. It depends, among other things, on what turns up during disassembly and on whether repairs or parts are needed.
You can follow the progress of your service or repair through the customer portal. You get an email automatically whenever there is news, so you always know where you stand.