Pocket Watch Repair

August 2, 2023 randy

 

Why isn’t my pocket watch working?

 

There could be several reasons why you may need a pocket watch repair is not working and in need of restoration. Here are some common issues:

Dead Battery: If your timepiece is a quartz (battery-powered) model, the most likely reason it’s not working is that the battery is dead. Quartz watches require a battery to power the movement, and when the battery is depleted, the watch will stop.

Mechanical Issue: If your pocket watch is an automatic or mechanical model, it could have stopped due to a mechanical problem. vintage watches need regular maintenance and servicing to keep them running accurately. The movement’s components may have worn out or become misaligned, causing the watch to stop.

Stuck or Jammed Gears: In both mechanical and quartz watches, the gears and wheels can sometimes become stuck or jammed, preventing the watch from functioning correctly. This issue can occur due to debris, dirt, or lack of lubrication.

Broken Main Spring: In mechanical watches, the mainspring provides the energy needed to power the watch. If the mainspring is broken, the watch will stop completely.

Damaged or Worn Components: Various watch components can wear out or become damaged during a watches life, causing the watch to stop. Components such as the balance wheel, escapement, or pallet fork may need replacement or repair.

Impact or Water Damage: If your pocket watch has suffered a shock or impact or has been exposed to water or moisture, it could have caused damage to the movement, resulting in the watch not working correctly.

Overwinding (for manual winding watches): If your pocket watch is a manual winding model, be careful to know when it is fully wound. Overwinding can put excessive pressure on the movement and cause issues.

If your pocket watch has stopped, it’s best to take it to a professional watchmaker or a reputable watch repair service for assessment and repair. They can diagnose the issue and provide the appropriate solution to get your pocket watch running again. Attempting to open or fix the watch yourself may cause further damage.

 

 

Can a pocket watch be repaired?

 

Yes, pocket watch repair can often bring a timepiece back, depending on the extent of the damage and the availability to replace missing parts. Whether your pocket watch is a vintage pocket watch, antique pocket watch, or a modern timepiece, an expert watchmaker can usually diagnose and fix various issues to get it running again.

Cleaning and Servicing: Over time, pocket watches, antique pocket watches especially, can accumulate dust, dirt, and old lubricants, which can affect their accuracy and functionality. A professional watchmaker can offer a range of services such as disassembly of the movement, cleaning the components, and applying fresh lubricants to ensure the watch is fixed.

Replacing the Crystal: If the pocket watch crystal is scratched, cracked, or broken, it can be replaced with a new one. Depending on the type of crystal (mineral glass, sapphire, acrylic), the replacement process may vary.

Repairing or Replacing Hands: If the watch hands are bent, broken, or loose, they can be repaired or replaced to ensure accurate timekeeping.

Fixing the Crown: A stuck or damaged crown can prevent the watch from being wound or set properly. The crown can be repaired or replaced as needed.

Mainspring Replacement: In mechanical pocket watches, the mainspring provides power to the movement. If it’s broken or damaged, a new mainspring can be installed.

Balance Wheel and Escapement Adjustment: The balance wheel and escapement are critical components in a mechanical watch. Adjusting them properly can improve accuracy and ensure smooth operation.

Replacement of Worn or Damaged Parts: If specific components of the movement are worn out or damaged beyond repair, watchmakers may source compatible replacement parts to restore functionality.

However, it’s important to note that some antique or vintage pocket watches may have rare or obsolete parts that are challenging to find. In such cases, repair options may be limited, and it might be more challenging to fully restore the watch to its original condition.

 

 

 

Are watches worth repairing?

 

The decision to repair a pocket watch depends on various factors, similar to repairing wristwatches. Here are some considerations to help determine if a pocket watch is worth repairing:

Sentimental Value: Pocket watches, especially vintage or heirloom pieces passed down through generations, often hold sentimental value. If the pocket watch has sentimental significance to you or your family, repairing it may be worth preserving its sentimental history and connection.

Historical or Collectible Value: Some pocket watches, particularly rare or antique models, can hold significant historical or collectible value. If the pocket watch is considered a valuable collectible or has historical importance, repairing it can help maintain its value or even increase its worth.

Quality and Craftsmanship: High-quality and well-crafted pocket watches from reputable brands or with intricate complications are often worth restoration due to their inherent value and enduring craftsmanship.

Economic Value: The cost of repairing a pocket watch should be weighed against its economic value. If the repair costs exceed the watch’s potential market value or replacement cost, it may not be financially practical to repair it.

Availability of Parts: Some pocket watches, especially vintage or obscure models, may require rare or hard-to-find parts for repair. If these parts are not easily accessible, it can increase the difficulty and cost of the repair.

Personal Preference: Your personal preferences and emotional attachment to the pocket watch play a significant role in the decision. If you have a strong attachment to the watch and desire to see it restored, repair may be the best option.

Usability and Functionality: Consider how you intend to use the pocket watch after repair. If you plan to use it regularly and appreciate its historical charm and craftsmanship, repairing it could be worthwhile.

Ultimately, the decision to repair a pocket watch should be based on a balance of sentimental value, historical or collectible significance, craftsmanship, and economic feasibility.

 

 

How often should a pocket watch be serviced?

 

Regular servicing is essential to maintain the best possible condition and longevity of a pocket watch. For vintage mechanical and automatic pocket watches, experts recommend servicing every 3 to 5 years. This process ensures that the intricate mechanisms are kept in smooth working order, promoting accurate timekeeping and preventing potential wear and tear.

Quartz pocket watches, which rely on batteries for power, typically require less frequent servicing, but it’s still essential to have them inspected for irregularities or battery replacement as needed.

For cherished heirlooms, collectibles, and vintage pieces with sentimental value, regular and specialized servicing becomes even more crucial to preserve their historical integrity and cherish them for generations to come. Entrusting a qualified watchmaker or an authorized service center is the best way to maintain its timeless charm and functional excellence.

 

 

 

Do pocket watches hold value?

 

The value of pocket watches can vary depending on several factors, including the brand, age, condition, rarity, historical significance, and demand among collectors. Some pocket watches can hold significant value and be considered valuable collectibles, while others may have more sentimental or historical value than monetary worth.

 

 

Services We Provide

 

We at Watch Repairs USA can fix your new, current, or watch with sentimental value. Our prices will get you to try us once, with such good customer service we will keep you coming back. Join thousands of satisfied customers and get your Pocket watch repair services the fast, convenient, and hassle-free way to guarantee free estimates and a 1 year warranty. From a simple band repair to even a complete restoration, our Swiss trained watchmakers perform a wide range of repairs with precision.

 

 

Pocket Watch Repair