The whole watch should be evaluated when taken in for repair. Besides the movement, there are other considerations such as the case, bracelet or strap, crown and crystal.
Pins in a bracelet that have worn thin. |
This case is pitted and may no longer be watertight. |
This crown is unsightly and the gasket for water resistance is bad. |
this crystal is chipped on the edge, making it more likely to break. |
Also, things like the dial and hands are inspected for scratches or moisture damage. A recommendation for repair or replacement is made if necessary along with the movement service. |
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Scratched hands, possibly from a previous bad repair. |
Moisture entry has damaged the dial and the luminous may soon crumble into the movement. |
Sometimes it is cost effective to replace the movement. If not, and if cleaning is the better option, the process will be something like this: First, the electronic components are tested. If they are good, they are removed and set aside. Then the movement is disassembled. |
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a basic quartz movement. |
a more complex quartz movement such as a Chronograph. |
Next, the pieces are inspected. Worn parts are replaced and then most of the parts are put into the cleaning machine. Parts are sometimes separated into individual baskets. The cleaning machine will remove dirt and old oils. The watch is reassembled, checked, adjusted if necessary, and oiled. The electronic portion is refitted and rechecked. |
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Once this is done, the dial and hands are refitted and the movement is put back into the case. Final checks are made on calendar function (if the watch has one) and hand clearance. This usually means letting it run for a day or two. Water resistance is usually the last test. |
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A "dry" type water resistance testing machine |
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