The simplest method to answer the question of how frequently you should service your watch is to first decide whether or not it requires service. Only then will we be able to answer the question of how frequently you should service your watch.
To begin, the most fundamental step you can take right now is to determine if there is anything wrong with your watch. Here are some questions to consider:
1. If your watch is not keeping time, you will most likely require service. We want to take all of the required safeguards and steps before we get it serviced before you hurry out the door to the local watchmaker. There is a significant difference between a watch that keeps time and a watch that works. Your watch can keep accurate time while also having a flaw. For example, if your automatic watch keeps accurate time but the automated mechanism is faulty, there is a problem with your watch. Rolex watches were once known for this issue. Even though the automated function was damaged, the watch kept excellent time when wound.
2. If your watch is less than four years old and still works properly, do not waste your money having it serviced. Wait a minute. We observe that it normally takes 4 or more years from the date of purchase for a watch to return for a non-preventive service.
Do not worry about getting it serviced just yet if it is still running and on time and you do not have the funds. Many watchmakers make it appear as though not getting your watch serviced within the prescribed service intervals is a life or death scenario. I respectfully disagree. If your resources are tight, the last thing you need to do is pay for a full service. Your major goal should be to save money so that you can provide food, shelter, and security for your family. Getting a watch maintained should be the last thing on your mind, especially if it is in fine working order and has no flaws.
3. If your watch is more than four years old from the date of purchase and is not keeping time, you should have it serviced. Any watch, regardless of age, that is not functioning properly or maintaining time should be examined. This brings us back to the original question: Is Your Watch Working? A watch that is less than four years old should not have timing issues. Of course, this is heavily influenced by other aspects such as the client’s interests, daily activities, lifestyle, weather, events, and so on, so we will have to finish the rest of the questions to obtain a comprehensive picture and see how everything fits together.
4. If you have a vintage* watch that has not been checked up by a watchmaker in the last 4 to 7 years, I would recommend bringing it in as soon as possible. Whether it is on time or not. If a part in your classic watch breaks, you will be in big trouble when it comes to obtaining or creating a replacement. Vintage timepieces will be the lone exception to the rule, as none of this applies to them. When a part on an antique watch breaks, the service price skyrockets in comparison to the cost of routine maintenance.
In short, if you need to have an antique watch serviced because something breaks, it will require a lot more effort. If you get a vintage watch maintained while it is still in good working order, the watchmaker can examine, repair, and/or avoid a breakdown for several years.
