For many, the watch is something more than showing the time. It can be a keepsake, a fashion statement, or even a milestone commemoration. Like any mechanical device, watches may develop issues after some time. Whether due to gradual wear and tear or from an unforeseen malfunction, knowing when the right time to seek repair for your watch can be very important. This article looks at common signs your watch may need a repair and how to address them promptly.
Table of Contents
Your Watch Is Losing Time
One of the most straightforward indicators that your watch needs to be repaired is when it begins to lose time. If you are continuously correcting the time, or if the time tends to run slow, this could indicate a mechanical problem. Over time, your internal watch components will begin to take a beating, which affects the turning of the gears and mechanisms in general. In most instances, the watchmaker will be able to tell what the problem is just by viewing the movement and cleaning the inner parts.
Condensation Under the Watch Glass
If you ever notice condensation or moisture between the glasses of your watch, this is going to be a truly alarming sign. A decent quality watch and one described as water-resistant would possess seals and gaskets that prevent the infiltration of moisture. The seal and gasket, with time, wear out and let moisture in. This is very common for moisture ingress in a watch that has been exposed to water very frequently, for example, at the time of swimming or washing your hands. Moisture inside your watch can lead to long-term damage to the inner delicate parts, rust, and corrosion.
The Battery Dies Too Often
The number of life years of the watch batteries depends on the type of the watch and the frequency at which one uses it. A watch battery, depending on its type, can last anywhere from two to five years. If you happen to find your watch’s battery dies off way sooner than required, it can be a signal that something is wrong underneath. This is not normal, as frequent battery replacement can be rather irritating for the owners of a watch. This may be due to an electrical problem that has caused a malfunction inside the movement or because the battery is over-exerting itself due to some other internal problem. Either way, this problem is best diagnosed by taking your watch to a professional.
Your Watch Is Noisy, or the Hands Aren’t Moving Properly
A watch is designed to be relatively quiet, and in high-end timepieces, this is even more so. If you suddenly start to hear strange ticking sounds, grinding or skipping of hands, or hands not moving, that would indicate an internal problem. Small interior parts in your watch may wear down over time, creating friction and prohibiting proper movement. These issues generally are quite easy to resolve if they are caught early enough.
Visible Damage or Scratches
Because they are designed to be durable, occasionally accidents occur. Dropping your watch or hitting the case against a hard surface can result in scratches, chips, or even cracks on the glass or case. Although minor cosmetic damage seems avoidable, it has a way of growing into bigger issues and you might need to get your watch to a watch repair service. A cracked crystal-the glass covering your watch lets dust, dirt, and moisture seep into your watch to affect it in the long run.
Conclusion
A well-cared-for watch could last for generations. Regular servicing and attention to problems straight away mean that your timepiece will be ticking for years to come and serve practical use and sentimental value. If you observe any of the issues mentioned above, then it is time to visit a watch repair professional to ensure that your watch stays in perfect working condition.
