Frequently asked questions

Why does my watch need a service?

Your clock is a small mechanical wonder that runs tirelessly. It has many rotating components, which may show signs of wear over the years, as well as the lubrication of all components, which must be renewed after a few years. Regular maintenance after 4 - 6 years contributes to the longevity of your watch.

Quartz watches should also be serviced after 5 - 7 years.

Why is my mechanical watch inaccurate?

A mechanical watch is very sensitive to external influences such as magnetism and shocks. These can be reasons why your watch is inaccurate.

A mechanical watch that is magnetic can be demagnetised with a special device.

However, an inaccurate rate can also be an indication that your clock needs service.

Why does my watch have condensation under the glass?

Even if your watch appears waterproof, thermal shock can cause condensation to form under the glass. Therefore, avoid extreme temperature fluctuations. If condensation forms under the glass, it is recommended that you take your watch in for repair to prevent major damage.

How much does it cost to repair my watch?

Please refer to our non-binding repair price list.

How long does a repair take?

Battery service and regulation of mechanical watches can usually be done within one day.

Component replacement, waterproofing service and partial revision take between 1 - 2 weeks. The duration of the repair may be extended if spare parts have to be ordered.

Revisions take between 2 - 4 weeks. The duration of the repair may be extended if spare parts have to be ordered.

Repairs that have to be sent to the manufacturer take between 4 - 12 weeks.

Should I replace the battery in my watch even if I am not wearing the watch?

It is important to replace a battery as soon as the watch stops. If you should stop wearing the watch, have the battery removed to avoid battery leakage.

How do I know if my watch is still water resistant?

A watch is designed to be water resistant for certain activities. However, this is not guaranteed for years and should be checked regularly. This will give you peace of mind that your watch is still protected.

Why is my leather strap already worn out?

Leather is a natural product that reacts to many external influences such as moisture, perfume, skin creams, etc. The life of a leather strap depends on the wearing habit and how often the watch is worn. The life of a leather strap depends on the wearing habit and how often the watch is worn, usually between 2 - 3 years.

Why is my automatic clock not running?

An automatic watch needs sufficient movement of the wearer's arm to wind itself and ensure the running of your watch. 

Please refer to our watch care tips on this topic.

Why is my expensive mechanical watch less accurate than my quartz watch?

Mechanical and quartz clocks have a completely different operating principle. The clock of a quartz watch oscillates 32768 times per second and that of a mechanical watch only 3 - 4 times per second. This is one of the main reasons why quartz watches are much more accurate.

In general, the following rate deviations apply: Approximately 1 minute per year for a quartz watch and 1 minute per week for a mechanical watch.

With high-quality mechanical watches or chronometers (COSC tested), a rate deviation of 30 - 40 seconds per week can be achieved.

What is a chronometer and chronograph?

A chronometer is a watch with very high precision. The movements undergo a 15-day test for accuracy in different positions and temperatures. The test is usually carried out by the COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres). After the successful test, the watches receive a certificate of accuracy and may henceforth be called chronometers. Chronometers may have a maximum daily deviation of -4 to +6 seconds.

A watch is called a chronograph if it has an additional stopwatch function that can be used to measure periods of time. A chronograph can therefore be used like a stopwatch to measure periods of time. It also shows the time and often the date.

Chronographs often have an additional scale such as a tachymeter, telemeter or pulsometer scale.