Every watch, no matter how affordable or expensive, standard or luxurious, fashionable or functional, requires occasional maintenance to keep it firing on all cylinders. Over time, even the best-made watches will show signs of wear and develop issues that affect performance. 

For watch owners, recognizing malfunctions early on can prevent more significant issues and preserve the longevity of their go-to accessory. This guide outlines common reasons why watches need repairs and how that leads to a long lifespan for your timepiece.

Why Has My Watch Stopped Working?

At Fast-Fix, we’ve seen it all! We’ve been repairing watches since 1984 and have seen timepieces, both new and old, require various repairs. From simple fixes to complex restorations, our team can handle it all, and we love diagnosing issues and helping you understand the path to a long-term but fast fix. Here are the most common watch repair services we’ve seen, which we can usually knock out on the same day:

• Dead Battery: Like anything with a battery (cars, headlamps, and cell phones), a watch's battery has a shelf life. Most watches last about 2-4 years, so if you’re in that window and suddenly your watch is not working, a dead battery is often the first thing to check.
• Water Damage: Even “water-resistant” watches can develop issues over time as their seals wear down. Water damage may not be immediately visible, but it can lead to rust or corrosion within the watch. If you think back on your watch usage and can remember times you’ve had it in the pool, shower, or ocean, it’s possible that your watch has some water damage.
• Strap Replacements: One of the more obvious issues with a watch is that common strap materials such as leather, metal, and link bands can wear out over time, making the watch less comfortable or secure on your wrist. While this may not be an example of a watch not working, it does render the timepiece often useless, as a wristwatch falls short if it doesn’t properly and comfortably fit the wrist!
• Loose Hands/Crown: Loose hands or a malfunctioning crown often lead to poor timekeeping and may need professional adjustment to ensure accuracy.

When your watch stops working, these basic repairs are essential to restore functionality. Fast-Fix offers convenient, same-day services for these common issues, so you can continue enjoying your timepiece without delay.

Where to Get a Watch Fixed?

If you’re reading this article, you may understand the reason your watch stopped working. Let’s break down some of the main services Fast-Fix offers for repairing watches:

• Basic Service: Routine maintenance that includes checking the internal components, cleaning, and lubrication. Think of it like a tune-up for a car, bicycle, or guitar.
• Crystal Replacement: A scratched or cracked crystal can obfuscate the watch face. When that happens, replacing the crystal can restore clarity and, more importantly, protect the watch’s inner workings.
• Crown Repairs: Essential for adjusting time, the crown can wear down over time. Whether it’s grime, blunt force, or anything else life may throw at your wrists, we can repair or replace crowns when they inevitably falter.
• Gasket Replacement: Gaskets prevent water and dust from entering the watch, so replacing them periodically is essential for maintaining water resistance. Gasket replacement can almost be thought of as a routine maintenance requirement for a watch, much like replacing the furnace filter in your home.
• Link Additions or Removal: Adding or removing a metal strap to fit perfectly is a quick fix that enhances comfort and appearance. No one likes watches falling off the wrist or cutting off blood circulation to the hand. A well-fitted watch looks and feels terrific.
• Complete Watch Overhaul: For watches that need extensive work, a full overhaul involves disassembly, cleaning, part replacement, reassembly, and testing may be required.

If you need to make an appointment for a watch repair, our repair services page can provide an additional breakdown of how our team can help.

What is Someone Who Fixes Watches Called?

The art and science of watch repair, known as horology, is not for the faint of heart. You’re often hunched over and peering through a magnifying glass, fixing miniscule parts on (sometimes) expensive jewelry. These professionals who embrace this challenge are called horologists. 

At Fast-Fix, we take pride in employing expert horologists with over 20 years of experience so that every repair is handled by skilled hands. Our team’s expertise is what has led to the reputation and longevity of Fast-Fix, and is the best solution for simple fixes to intricate restorations. You can trust us with your precious keepsake.

The 10 Most Common Reasons For Watch Repair

Keep an eye (or an ear) out for these ten most common reasons for watch repair. Watches can be fickle, so although this list is not exhaustive, it’s a good start for understanding the most common issues we see. Again, catching these issues early can save you from more costly repairs down the road.

1. Keeping Poor Time

If your watch isn’t keeping time accurately, it’s likely a problem with the internal mechanism. If you find your watch stopped working entirely or just struggles with accuracy by going off-time frequently, it’s definitely time for a tune-up.

2. Rattling Sounds

Remember when we said to keep an eye and an ear on your watch? That’s because a rattling sound inside your watch can mean a component has come loose. Ignoring this can lead to more significant damage, so it’s best to have it checked immediately. Plus, no one wants to hear a rattling sound with every step they take or movement they make.

3. Visible Moisture Under the Crystal

Simply put, moisture inside a watch can lead to serious damage. If you see condensation under the crystal, bring it in for watch repair immediately to prevent rust and internal corrosion. 

4. Skipping Second Hand

A secondhand that skips rather than moves smoothly is a watch that needs some attention. This could mean a few things, from a low battery to an issue with the movement. Either way, it’s best to have a Fast-Fix horologist take a look.

5. Impact Damage

Accidental drops or impacts can damage a watch’s case, crystal, or internal components. Visible cracks or dents require immediate repair to prevent further harm.

6. Evidence of Poor Past Repairs

It’s possible that a previous repair was done incorrectly or cheaply, and may be affecting the watch’s functionality. Not to brag, but we can assess and correct any poor-quality repairs and, in doing so, restore your watch’s quality.

7. Crystal Repairs or Replacement

Scratches, cracks, or other damage to the crystal negatively affect the watch’s appearance and also its functionality. Watches are finely tuned instruments, so replacing the crystal may be essential for maintaining the integrity of your timepiece.

8. Crown Repairs or Replacement

A loose or stuck crown can prevent you from setting the time or adjusting other functions. Crown issues are common reasons for watch repair, as they directly affect the usability of the watch.

9. Strap Repairs or Replacement

A worn or damaged strap can make it difficult to wear your watch comfortably. Getting the strap fixed can restore both comfort and appearance.

10. Case Reseal/Water Resistance Testing & Repair

If your watch’s water resistance has degraded, resealing the case and testing for water resistance is essential. It’s important to reseal your watch to prevent moisture from damaging the inner components.

Prevent Future Watch Problems with Regular Maintenance and Expert Repairs at Fast-Fix

Regular maintenance and timely repairs can significantly extend the life of your watch. At Fast-Fix, we deliver expert watch-fixing services. Unlike mainstream shops that often send watches to warehouses, which can take weeks, our on-site professionals handle all repairs, ensuring quick turnaround and quality workmanship. Find your closest store and book your watch service today. Let us help you maintain your timepiece with precision and care.

See what some of our happy customers had to say!

“They replaced my husband's gift watch capacitor and crystal, polished the silver band, and adjusted the size all within a few hours for a very reasonable price. Our technician was very knowledgeable and gave clear and concise instructions on how to care for my specific watch model (citizen eco-drive).”

“Fast-Fix at Victoria Gardens services all my high-end watches, and the service here is, hands down, the best! The gentleman at the store is highly knowledgeable about watch service and repair. They have serviced and backed up with a warranty on my Tags, Hamilton, Longines, and Tissot timepieces for the last five years.”

“A quick and simple fix for needing a battery replacement for my Swiss army watch. Very courteous and friendly.”