Complete Watch Overhaul Guide: When and Why Your Timepiece Needs It

September 17, 2025

A luxury watch is an investment. You should have it serviced and repaired to ensure it’s protected. At some point, a complete watch overhaul may be necessary.
But what is a complete watch overhaul, and how do you know you need it? This article will tell you everything you need to know.

What is a Complete Watch Overhaul?

A complete watch overhaul requires disassembling the watch, cleaning each component, replacing worn parts, and reassembling. Here’s a breakdown of what’s involved.

Disassembly: The dealer will take apart each watch component, including the movement, gears, and springs, and inspect them for wear and tear.
Cleaning. They will place the pieces in an ultrasonic cleaner to remove dirt, oil, and debris.
Lubrication: Special oils are used to lubricate the movement, preventing wear and friction, and ensuring smooth operation.
Replacement of Worn Parts: Any worn parts will be replaced with new, original parts. An authorized dealer will ensure the parts are authentic to the watch brand, so the watch maintains its value.
Reassembly: The watchmaker will reassemble the new and used parts, preparing it for wear.
Regulation and Testing: The watch is then regulated, which involves using a fine-tipped tool to make precise adjustments to the regulator arm to ensure accuracy. It is also tested for optimal functionality.
Case Cleaning and Polishing: The watchmaker cleans and polishes the watch’s case, crown, and bracelet to ensure they look their best.

When Should I Get a Watch Overhaul?

Mechanical watches typically require total watch repairs every 3 to 5 years. However, certain signs indicate your watch may need service sooner. Here are some to look out for.

Losing or Gaining Time: Inaccurate time telling may indicate that your watch’s movement is damaged or requires lubrication.
Power Reserve Issues: Your watch may have power reserve issues if it does not hold power or stops working shortly after it’s removed from the wrist, indicating a need for service.
Moisture of Water Damage: If you notice condensation under your watch’s crystal or were exposed to heavy water for an extended period, you may consider taking it in for a complete watch overhaul. Even a water-resistant watch may require an overhaul after exposure.
Strange Noises: If you notice strange noises or grinding when you wind or adjust your watch, it may be a sign of internal wear or damage.
Not Services in Over Five Years: Even if your watch is running fine, consider getting it serviced every five years to prevent possible damage.

What are the Benefits of Total Watch Repair?

A complete watch overall provides several benefits, including the following:

Improved Accuracy: Worn-out, dirty, or damaged parts may cause inaccuracy. An overhaul can address these issues.
Extends Lifespan: Regular overhauls extend the lifespan of your watch, ensuring you get the most from your investment.
Prevents Bigger Repairs: An overhaul may be an additional expense, but if you don’t get regular service, you may have bigger and more expensive repair needs in the future.
Maintains Value: Well-cared-for watches maintain value, which can be beneficial when it’s time to sell, trade, or pass the watch on to future generations.
Preserves Sentimental Value: A luxury watch often holds sentimental value. Caring for it maintains that value, ensuring you feel good about your watch every time you see it.

Caring for Your Watch

Although a complete watch overhaul is necessary for watch ownership, most prefer to keep service to a minimum to avoid expenses and related stress. Here are some tips for keeping your watch cared for to avoid unnecessary service.

Protect Your Watch from Environmental Factors: Exposure to extreme temperatures and strong magnetic fields can damage the watch’s movement, causing it to run too slow or fast.
Avoid Rough Handling: Rough handling can cause damage, leading to a need for additional service. Avoid impacts with chemicals and store the watch in a protective box to prevent damage.
Clean Your Watch: Clean the watch regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth to avoid oil and debris buildup.
Wind Mechanical Watches Regularly: Winding your mechanical watch regularly will evenly distribute lubricants, ensuring smooth operation. It may also prevent power reserve issues.

Why It’s Important to Get a Complete Watch Overhaul from an Authorized Dealer

A complete watch overhaul is beneficial, but using an authorized dealer will allow you to get the most out of the service. Here’s why:

Guaranteed Authentic Parts: If replacements are necessary, an authorized dealer will use authentic parts made by the watchmaker, ensuring your watch preserves its value.
Expertise: An authorized dealer is familiar with the unique manufacturing of luxury watch brands, ensuring expert service.
Preserves the Warranty: Many luxury brands will only honor the warranty if an authorized dealer performs all repairs and services.
Specialized Equipment: The dealer often has proprietary tools and equipment for disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling, ensuring the work is completed to the highest precision.