How Often Should You Service an OMEGA Speedmaster
November 13, 2025An OMEGA Speedmaster is a prized possession. It should be serviced regularly to maintain its value and ensure it functions properly. But how often to service an OMEGA Speedmaster?
This article provides valuable OMEGA Speedmaster service tips.
About the OMEGA Speedmaster
Before addressing OMEGA Speedmaster service frequency, let’s take a quick history break.
The OMEGA Speedmaster was introduced in 1957 as a sports and racing chronograph. It was so named because its tachymaster scale allowed wearers to calculate velocity over a known distance. The watch also features an iconic tricompax subdial layout, robust chronograph functionality, and diverse yet distinctive design elements.
After a series of rigorous tests, NASA determined that the Speedmaster’s reliability, durability, and precision qualified it to withstand extreme space environments. Astronaut Wally Schirra was the first to wear the watch on a space mission in 1965. It remains qualified for space flights, making it a popular choice for NASA professionals.
OMEGA Speedmaster Maintenance
If you are lucky enough to own such an impressive watch, you should service it regularly, using a combination of professional and DIY services, including the following.
Cleaning the OMEGA Speedmaster
It’s advisable to clean your watch daily to prevent dirt and oil buildup that can compromise aesthetics and functionality. Here are some tips:
- Case and Bracelet: Clean these components with mild soap and warm water, using a soft-bristled brush. Ensure you get into the crevices. Run the watch under running water to remove the residue, then pat it dry.
- The Crystal: You can clean the crystal by wiping it down with a soft cloth. Use mild soap to break down stubborn marks or residue.
Protecting the Watch
Part of OMEGA Speedmaster maintenance is keeping it protected during storage and wear. Here are some helpful tips.
- Proper Storage: Store your watch in a safe place where it won’t get scratched. It should be protected from dust and debris.
- Choose a Cool, Dry Area: Direct sunlight can fade the dial and cause lubricants to dry out. Humidity can infiltrate the watch and cause corrosion. For these reasons, it’s best to store the watch in a cool, dry place.
- Avoid Magnets that can cause the watch to run faster or slower than expected.
- Protect It from Water Damage: Speedmasters are water-resistant, but not waterproof. To prevent damage, don’t wear your watch when you’re swimming, diving, or showering. If it becomes wet, dry it off as soon as possible, especially around the crevices.
Strap Care
The strap is another vital component of the watch that requires maintenance as follows:
- Adjusting the Bracelet: Watch bracelets typically follow standardized sizing. If the bracelet is too small or too big, you should take it to a professional for an adjustment. They have specialized tools to adjust the watch, ensuring optimal balance and symmetry.
- Cleaning the Bracelet: A metal bracelet can be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution and a microfiber cloth. Leather bands should be cleaned with specialized solutions and treated with leather conditioners.
- Replacing the Strap: If the strap requires replacement, it’s advisable to use genuine OMEGA parts to retain value and aesthetics. A certified dealer can handle this process.
How Often Should You Service an OMEGA Speedmaster?
Although you may care for your watch at home, it’s also essential to take it in for professional service with an Omega Speedmaster servicing frequency of every 4-5 years. However, you may take it in sooner if you notice issues such as:
- Gaining or losing time
- Moisture under the crystal
- Power reserve issues
- Stiff or unresponsive crown
What to Expect During a Service Visit
During a service visit, the technician will completely disassemble your watch to clean any dirt, dust, grime, or debris that has accumulated inside. If they identify damaged parts, they will replace them with authentic OMEGA components. The technician will then reassemble the watch and check its water resistance and power reserve, ensuring it’s in proper working order.
If you so choose, you may also have the technician polish your watch to remove scratches, restore the finish, and bring out its original shine. A movement overhaul may be necessary if performance issues are detected.
Benefits of Servicing a Luxury Watch
Servicing a luxury sports watch provides the following benefits:
- Extended Lifespan: Regular service can address issues early, before they cause your watch to break down, extending lifespan and potentially saving you money on expensive repairs.
- Accuracy and Performance: Watches that are serviced regularly will perform at their best, offering accurate time telling for years to come.
- Value Retention: Servicing a watch retains its value, which can be beneficial when it’s time to sell or trade.
- Aesthetics: Cleanings, which are part of regular service, keep your watch looking its best. A clean face and crystal also support optimal readability.
OMEGA Servicing Cost
Service costs vary depending on the model, movement, and overall condition of your watch. OMEGA servicing typically starts around $700 for a full movement overhaul and polishing to restore its original finish.
Take Your OMEGA Speedmaster to an Authorized Retailer for Servicing
Servicing is an essential part of owning a luxury watch. When that time comes around, it’s crucial to take the watch to an authorized dealer. They will provide the following benefits:
- Guaranteed Authenticity: An authorized dealer uses authentic parts to prevent the watch from being devalued.
- Valid Warranty: In addition to providing service warranties, an authorized dealer’s work is also valid under the original OMEGA warranty. Work from an unauthorized dealer could void the coverage.
- Expert Service: Authorized professionals have a deep understanding of your watch’s components and functionality, as well as specialized tools for servicing, ensuring successful outcomes.
Precision Watches is an authorized OMEGA dealer you can trust. Our decades of expert service establish us as a reputable provider of new and pre-owned luxury watches and reliable watch repair in Lower Gwynedd, PA.
Visit our showroom in person or contact us online to learn more about our collections and services.
