Note: this post specifically addresses service speeds or repair turnaround being "fast", not "fast-running" watches.
For many watch enthusiasts and collectors, finding a reliable and efficient watch repair or care provider that you can trust in Singapore is non-negotiable. Whether it's a luxury timepiece or a vintage heirloom, having a reliable watch servicer you can turn to can save you precious time and ensure the longevity of your prized timepiece.
But can fast turnaround and services actually be good/trustworthy?
We sometimes see customers walk in with an over-simplified idea of the process, going "it should be easy, just oil it!", just need to change the part, why so slow?"
In this post, we give you a quick background on watch repairs, some common misconceptions before we answer your question - can speedy turnaround for watch repairs be any good?
What goes into getting your watch repaired... quickly or otherwise.
Watch servicing and repairs are labour-intensive processes. Every timepiece is a complex assembly of hundreds of tiny components that require meticulous attention. At The Watch Specialist's Clinic, our Swiss-certified watchmakers with decades of experience take special care to follow a standard inspection that will get to the bottom of your watch's condition and need to repair.
Steps in watch servicing (assuming that you are sending your watch for a diagnosis or internal concern, and not just for battery replacements or external polishing or cleaning)
Dismantling: Components of the watch are carefully taken apart to reveal.
Inspection: Internals are checked for signs of wear, misalignment or damage. (These include the mainspring, gear train, escapement, balance wheel, hairspring, rotor & bridges and plates)
Cleaning: Internal parts are meticulously cleaned.
Repair/Replacement: Worn or damaged components are repaired or replaced. (Provided that spare or replacement parts are available, barring which they are put on a waitlist)
Reassembly: The watch is put back together and tested for accuracy (and cleaned once again!).
As you can see, human hands are required throughout this process. Unlike machine-produced items, adjustments and repairs for high-end timepieces demand the precision and expertise of experienced watchmakers.
Now that you know about the process, let's look at some common misconceptions that people who looking for fast watch repairs may have.
Misconception 1: watch repairs are quick and simple, so turnaround should be short.
Many believe that watch repairs are a quick fix. Spoiler alert: this is not always the case (please read on to know why!). Even some seemingly straightforward fixes can demand care and precision to retain the watch’s integrity. (as we have alluded in the typical steps to watch servicing above)
Misconception 2: Watch repairs only address the visible issues, so it should be quick!
It’s a common assumption that as long as a watch is running and only shows small issues, only the evident problem needs repairs. This may not always be the case. The inspection process can unearth internal issues that are already present, or may become a problem in the future. These issues are not always apparent to the naked eye.
Misconception 3: Jewellers or heartland watch retailers can fix my luxury timepiece, it's faster!
No, chain watch retailers will not have the expertise to properly diagnose and repair internals of an intricate watch, much less jewellers. Certified watch specialists guarantee appropriate handling, avoiding further damage and preserving value. We've seen our fair share of customers come to us asking to repair a repair. Please save yourself the trouble.
Speed limitations in watch repairs: the reality check.
With the context we have provided above with regards to fast watch servicing, it should be pretty apparent that rushing a watch repair can compromise the quality of the work. Precision is crucial when handling delicate components, and the need for speed may introduce the possibility for errors.
Rushing a watch repair (from a customer or from other specialists who may agree or promise certain turnarounds before inspection) may lead to severe issues with the timepiece that might be overlooked, leading to further and future complications. There's also things like part availability (we carry a good range of parts for luxury brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, but still sometimes get caught in situations where required parts are very rare and need to be sourced) and calibration tests that may add more time to the fix.
We have an inside joke we say here;
"Good time takes time."
Fast watch repairs: the answer to the question of "fast watch repairs".
It really depends on what you're repairing. We always remain cautious of overpromising on speed as we will not compromise on service efficacy, as would most reputable repair specialists.
The truth is, even emergency repair requests will typically take 3-5 days.
Where possible, we'd of course want to get your timepiece back to you as soon as possible, and we try to accommodate every request. Just note that there may be periods where there will already be an inspection and repair queue that could also impact service speeds. Our advice? Try and avoid sending your watch in before peak holiday periods when more people may be servicing their watches to get them back in time for festive events like Christmas, Lunar New Year and so forth.
To help you get a view of how fast (or slow) specific watch service and repair requests can be turnaround, we put together a useful chart and overview below.
Service type | Estimated timeframe | Notes |
Battery replacement | On-the-spot or same day | Suitable for quick service options |
Bracelet link adjustment | On-the-spot or same day | Simple adjustment service |
Comprehensive overhaul | Varies (4-6 weeks) | Includes extensive repairs and cleaning |
Crown replacement | To be advised after consultation | Involves replacing the winding crown, requires precise fitting |
Crystal replacement | To be advised after consultation | Replacement of the watch glass, ensuring proper sealing and fit |
Dial refinishing | To be advised after consultation | Restoring or refinishing the watch dial, may involve intricate detailing |
Movement servicing | To be advised after consultation | Cleaning, oiling, and regulating the watch movement |
Water resistance testing | To be advised after consultation | Ensures the watch is properly sealed and water-resistant |
Gasket replacement | To be advised after consultation | Replacing worn gaskets to maintain water resistance |
Polishing and cleaning | To be advised after consultation | Professional polishing and cleaning of the watch case and bracelet |
Hand replacement | To be advised after consultation | Replacing damaged or worn hands, requires careful alignment |
Case refurbishment | To be advised after consultation | Restoring the watch case to its original finish and condition |
Bezel replacement | To be advised after consultation | Replacing the bezel, requires precise fitting and alignment |
Regulation adjustment | To be advised after consultation | Fine-tuning the watch to ensure accurate timekeeping |
Lubrication service | To be advised after consultation | Applying fresh oil to the movement components to reduce friction and wear |
Strap replacement | To be advised after consultation | Simple replacement of the watch strap or bracelet |
Case back engraving | To be advised after consultation | Custom engraving on the case back, adding a personalised touch |
Authentication | On-the-spot or same day | - |
What if you really need the repair to wrap fast? Also, how much would it actually cost for fast servicing?
We try to accommodate urgent fix repairs, just speak to us and we'll see what we can do.
The cost will vary based on the nature of the repair and the brand. For us, it boils down to effort and complexity of the repair, and cost of parts.
If you're reading this and time is of the essence for your repair - then don't wait. Get in touch and get a free watch servicing consultation.
Choosing quality over speed is oftentimes the best way to go when it comes to watch repairs, but we understand that sometimes you urgently need something done. Bring it in and we'll be happy to inspect your timepiece, and discuss whether we can meet your timelines.
There's no obligation to proceed if we cannot promise the repair completed on the date you require, or should we be unable to come to an agreed service window. So don't wait, come drop by or drop us a message.
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