Watch Care Questions, Answered

The watch is taken apart, ultrasonically cleaned and inspected, worn parts are replaced, and the movement is re-lubricated and reassembled. It is then regulated and timed, and the case is tested for water resistance before it leaves the workshop.

It depends on the movement, the oil's condition and how the watch is worn. Instead of setting a fixed number of years, we examine the watch and tell you where it stands, so you know what it needs now.

Watches from Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Richard Mille, Cartier, Vacheron Constantin, Tudor and F.P. Journe are all within our remit, as are many other Swiss and independent makers. Bring the watch and we will confirm we can take it on.

Water resistance is tested as part of the service, and gaskets and seals are checked while the case is open. If any seal has aged, this is when it is found.

A watchmaker examines it to find the cause, which might be as simple as a worn part or as involved as a movement fault. You are told what was found and what is recommended, and repair starts only once you approve.

Yes. Gaining and losing can come from magnetisation, dirt, worn components or a movement in need of regulation. We find the cause first and then correct it.

Yes. Crown and stem faults, crystal replacement, chronograph, date and winding problems all fall within our repair work, for modern and vintage watches alike. A watchmaker examines the watch first and tells you what is wrong and what putting it right would involve.

Where a component cannot easily be sourced, a watchmaker can often repair the original or restore it. We will say plainly what is possible before you decide how to proceed.

A specialist examines the case, dial, movement and bracelet, and checks that the serial number and reference are consistent with one another. The findings are set down in a written report.

Before buying or selling a watch, before insuring it, or when you inherit one and want to know exactly what you have. An independent opinion is most useful before a decision is final.

ChronoCare is not authorised by or affiliated with any watch manufacturer, so our examination is the opinion of independent experts. We tell you what we found, whichever way it points.

Yes. Every authentication examination ends with a written findings report that you can keep with the watch and show to a buyer, insurer or advisor. It sets out what was examined and what the examiner found.