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How often does a mechanical watch need servicing?
To ensure the accuracy of a mechanical watch, it needs regular cleaning and oiling. So, how often does a mechanical watch generally need servicing? What is the service cycle of a mechanical watch? Below, Xiaoya will answer this in detail for you.
Why do mechanical watches require servicing?
During the use of a mechanical watch, the lubricant applied to the components gradually evaporates and dries out over time. Friction between the gears generates fine metal particles, which increase rotational resistance and affect the watch's accuracy. Simultaneously, dust and fibres continuously enter through gaps in the case, forming deposits. Therefore, after a period of use, a mechanical watch requires disassembly, cleaning, and re-oiling.
Mechanical watch service intervals
There are various opinions on this matter; some suggest two years, others five, while some claim that as long as the watch functions correctly, it can be worn indefinitely without servicing. I believe each case should be analysed individually. Firstly, wear and tear are inevitable during the use of a watch, and the lubricants will deteriorate and dry out. Once wear increases, it hinders the transmission of the gear train, immediately affecting timekeeping accuracy and functionality.
Mechanical watch cleaning and oiling methods
What are the applications for various types of watch oils? Watch oils primarily include movement oil, generally used for pivot holes and pallet stones; clock oil, typically used for large clocks and alarm watch movement bearings; and silicone grease, suitable for watch crown tubes and case back screw threads.
[Movement oil] is generally applied to the pivot holes and pallet stones of the movement. It is commonly used for the pivots and jewels of watch movements. Frequently used types include domestic 702 and 6604 synthetic oils, often used for world-renowned brands such as Rolex, Cartier, Longines, and Omega. Watch lubricant packaging should be clean, free from leaks, and the colour should be uniform without separation or sediment. It must feature a product name, the manufacturer or agent's name and address to avoid counterfeit products, and the manufacturing date or batch number. Pay attention to the expiry date to avoid purchasing expired lubricants.
[Clock oil] is generally used for large clocks and alarm watch movement bearings, and is also suitable for the mainspring, clutch wheel, and setting lever of a watch. Clock oil is primarily used for clock movements (and can replace mainspring oil during repairs, or be used for clutch wheels), with domestic 701 clock oil being commonly used.
[Silicone grease] is milky white, gel-like, and viscous, suitable for watch crown tubes and case back screw threads. Note that the use of lubricant on the crown tube is strictly prohibited to prevent the degradation of the waterproof gasket. Having both movement oil and clock oil is sufficient for lubricating a watch, but when using clock oil, the quantity must be strictly controlled to prevent it from spreading to other components and affecting the watch's normal operation.
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How often does a mechanical watch need servicing? Generally, it requires servicing once every 3-5 years to ensure the accuracy of the watch. However, the cleaning process is complex, so it is best to leave it to a professional.
Related reading:
Why Do Mechanical Watches Use Jewels?
What materials are mechanical watch movements generally made of?
What is the true charm of mechanical watches?
Do automatic mechanical watches require servicing?
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