A complete watch overhaul, also known as a full service or restoration, is a comprehensive maintenance process that involves disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling the watch's movement, as well as replacing any worn or damaged components. In this post, we'll discuss what a complete watch overhaul entails, when you may need one, and what you can expect from the process.

What is a Complete Watch Overhaul?

A complete watch overhaul involves several steps to ensure that your watch is working properly and keeping accurate time. These steps may include:

Disassembling the Watch Movement: A trained watch technician will carefully disassemble the watch movement, which is the mechanism that powers the watch. This allows them to inspect each component individually for signs of wear or damage.

Cleaning the Components: Once the watch movement has been disassembled, the technician will clean each component thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may have accumulated over time.

Inspecting and Replacing Worn or Damaged Components: During the cleaning process, the technician will inspect each component for signs of wear or damage. Any components that are worn or damaged beyond repair will be replaced with new ones.

Reassembling the Watch Movement: Once all the components have been cleaned and inspected, the technician will carefully reassemble the watch movement, ensuring that each component is properly aligned and functioning as it should.

Lubricating the Movement: Before the watch is reassembled, the technician will lubricate the movement with high-quality oil to ensure that it runs smoothly and keeps accurate time.

Regulating the Watch: Once the watch has been reassembled, the technician will regulate the watch to ensure that it's keeping accurate time. This may involve adjusting the balance wheel or other components to fine-tune the watch's timekeeping.

When Do You Need a Complete Watch Overhaul?

There are several signs that may indicate that your watch needs a complete overhaul, including:

The watch is running slow or fast, or it's not keeping accurate time

The watch is making unusual noises or sounds

The watch has stopped running altogether

The watch has visible signs of wear or damage, such as scratches, dents, or rust

The watch is several years old and has not been serviced recently

If you notice any of these signs, it's a good idea to take your watch to a professional watch repair service for an assessment. A trained technician can determine whether a complete watch overhaul is necessary, or if a simpler repair or maintenance service is all that's needed.

What Can You Expect from a Complete Watch Overhaul?

A complete watch overhaul is a time-consuming process that requires precision and expertise. Depending on the complexity of the watch and the extent of the repairs needed, the process can take several days or even weeks to complete. However, the results are often well worth the investment. After a complete watch overhaul, your watch should be running smoothly, keeping accurate time, and looking as good as new.

Conclusion:

A complete watch overhaul is a comprehensive maintenance process that can help extend the life of your watch and keep it running smoothly for years to come. By disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling the watch movement, and replacing any worn or damaged components, a complete watch overhaul can restore your watch to its former glory. If you're experiencing issues with your watch's timekeeping or performance, or if your watch is showing signs of wear or damage, it may be time to consider a complete watch overhaul from a professional watch repair service. Continue reading

Rubber watch straps are a popular choice for many watch wearers due to their comfort, durability, and water resistance. However, over time, rubber watch straps can become dirty and discolored, detracting from the watch's overall appearance. In this post, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to clean your rubber watch strap and keep it looking its best.

Materials You'll Need:

To clean your rubber watch strap, you'll need a few materials:

Mild soap or detergent

Water

Soft-bristled brush or toothbrush

Towel or cloth

Step 1: Remove the Watch from the Strap

Before you begin cleaning your rubber watch strap, it's important to remove the watch from the strap. This will allow you to clean the strap thoroughly without risking damage to the watch itself.

Step 2: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

To prepare the cleaning solution, mix a small amount of mild soap or detergent with warm water in a bowl or sink. Be sure to use only a small amount of soap or detergent to avoid damaging the rubber strap.

Step 3: Clean the Strap

Using the soft-bristled brush or toothbrush, gently scrub the rubber strap with the cleaning solution. Be sure to clean both the front and back of the strap, as well as any areas where dirt or debris may be trapped, such as around the buckle or between the strap and the watch case.

Step 4: Rinse the Strap

After scrubbing the strap, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining soap or detergent. Be sure to rinse both the front and back of the strap, and use your fingers to gently rub any areas where soap or debris may be trapped.

Step 5: Dry the Strap

Once you've rinsed the strap, use a clean towel or cloth to gently pat it dry. Avoid rubbing the strap too vigorously, as this can cause damage to the rubber material. Allow the strap to air dry completely before reattaching it to the watch.

Additional Tips:

If your rubber strap is particularly dirty or discolored, you may need to repeat the cleaning process several times to achieve the desired results.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your rubber strap, as these can cause damage or discoloration.

To prevent future dirt and debris buildup, try removing your watch and cleaning the strap regularly, at least once every few weeks.

If your rubber strap has become damaged or worn over time, consider having it replaced by a professional watch repair service.

Conclusion

Cleaning your rubber watch strap is a simple and effective way to keep your watch looking its best. By following these easy steps, you can remove dirt and debris, and restore the color and shine of your rubber strap. With regular cleaning and care, your rubber watch strap can provide years of comfortable and reliable use. Continue reading

One of the most common issues that watch wearers face is a strap that doesn't fit properly. If your watch strap is too loose, it can slide around on your wrist, and if it's too tight, it can be uncomfortable to wear. Fortunately, many watch straps can be adjusted by removing links. In this post, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to remove links on your watch strap.

Tools You'll Need:

To remove links from your watch strap, you'll need a few tools:

A small screwdriver (usually included with your watch)

A watch link remover tool (available at most watch stores or online)

A pair of pliers (optional)

Step 1: Determine How Many Links to Remove

The first step in removing links from your watch strap is to determine how many links need to be removed. You can do this by trying on the watch and determining how loose or tight it feels. If the watch is too loose, you'll need to remove one or more links. If it's too tight, you may need to add links instead.

Step 2: Locate the Link Pins

Next, locate the link pins that hold the links together. These are small metal pins that fit into the holes on the sides of the links. They may be held in place with screws or simply by friction.

Step 3: Remove the Link Pins

Using the small screwdriver, carefully unscrew the screws that hold the link pins in place. If your watch doesn't have screws, you can use the watch link remover tool to push the pins out. Place the watch strap in the link remover tool and align the tool with the link pin. Use the tool to push the pin out of the link.

Step 4: Remove the Links

Once the link pins are removed, the links should be easy to separate. Simply slide the links apart and remove the link(s) that you need to take out. If you need to remove more than one link, repeat steps 2-4 until you've removed the desired number of links.

Step 5: Reattach the Links

Once you've removed the desired number of links, it's time to reattach the remaining links. To do this, align the links and insert the link pin into the holes on either side of the links. If your watch uses screws to hold the link pins in place, carefully insert the screws and tighten them using the small screwdriver.

Step 6: Adjust the Strap Length

After you've reattached the links, try on the watch to ensure that it fits properly. If it's still too loose or too tight, you may need to remove or add more links until you find the right fit.

Conclusion

Removing links from your watch strap can be a simple and effective way to ensure that your watch fits properly and is comfortable to wear. With a few basic tools and some patience, you can easily remove links from most watch straps. If you're unsure about how to remove links or you're uncomfortable working on your watch, it's always best to take it to a professional watch repair service for assistance. Continue reading

Watches are more than just functional timekeeping devices; they're also a reflection of our personal style and taste. Whether you're a fan of vintage timepieces or the latest smartwatch technology, it's important to keep your watch in top condition to ensure that it continues to function properly and look its best. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the different watch services offered by our business, and provide tips and advice on how to maintain and restore your watch.

Automatic Movement Service: What it is and Why Your Watch Needs it

Automatic movements are the heart of a mechanical watch, responsible for keeping time and powering the various functions of the watch. However, like any complex machine, automatic movements require regular maintenance to ensure that they continue to function properly. An automatic movement service involves disassembling the movement, cleaning and lubricating the components, and making any necessary adjustments to the timing or regulating mechanism. Having your automatic movement serviced regularly can help prevent damage and ensure that your watch keeps accurate time for years to come.

Battery Replacement: How to Tell When Your Watch Needs a New Battery

If you own a quartz watch, you'll need to have the battery replaced periodically to ensure that the watch continues to function properly. Signs that your watch may need a new battery include a dim or fading display, a watch that stops running altogether, or a second hand that moves in two-second intervals. You can replace the battery yourself, but it's often safer and more convenient to have a professional watch repair service perform the replacement.

Crystal Replacement: Restoring Clarity to Your Watch

The crystal is the clear cover that protects the watch face, and it can become scratched or damaged over time. A crystal replacement involves removing the damaged crystal and replacing it with a new one. There are several types of crystals commonly used in watches, including sapphire, mineral, and acrylic, and each type has its own unique properties and benefits. Choosing the right crystal replacement for your watch depends on your personal preferences, as well as the specific needs of your watch.

Stem & Crown Replacement: Keeping Your Watch in Proper Working Order

The stem and crown of a watch are responsible for setting the time and making any necessary adjustments to the watch's functions. Over time, the stem and crown can become damaged or worn, which can prevent the watch from functioning properly. Stem and crown replacement involves removing the damaged components and replacing them with new ones. This is a delicate procedure that should be performed by a professional watch repair technician.

Mechanism Replacement: Restoring Your Watch's Functionality

If your watch's movement has suffered extensive damage or wear, it may be necessary to replace the entire mechanism. This involves removing the damaged mechanism and replacing it with a new one. Mechanism replacement can be a costly and time-consuming process, but it's often the best option for restoring your watch's functionality.

Dial and Hands Refinishing: Restoring Beauty to Your Watch

The dial and hands of a watch can become faded or worn over time, detracting from the watch's overall appearance. Refinishing the dial and hands involves removing any scratches or blemishes and restoring the original finish. This can be a delicate process that requires precision and expertise, but it can also dramatically improve the look of your watch.

Band/Straps Replacement: Finding the Perfect Replacement for Your Watch

The band or strap of a watch is responsible for holding the watch securely to your wrist, and it can also be a key element of the watch's overall style. If the band or strap becomes damaged or worn, it may be necessary to replace it. There are a variety of replacement bands and straps




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As a proud owner of an expensive watch, it's natural to be cautious about who you trust to repair and maintain your precious timepiece. With over 30 years of experience in the watch repair industry, we understand your concerns and are here to help. In this article, we will discuss the top questions you should ask a watch repair company before sending your luxury watch for service.

1. What are your credentials and experience?

A reputable watch repair company should have a team of trained and certified watchmakers. Don't hesitate to ask about their certifications, such as those from the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute (AWCI) or the Swiss-based Watchmakers of Switzerland Training and Education Program (WOSTEP). Additionally, inquire about their experience, particularly with high-end brands like Rolex, Omega, or Patek Philippe.

2. Do you use genuine parts for repairs?

Using genuine parts is crucial for maintaining the integrity and value of your luxury watch. Make sure the repair company sources their parts directly from the watch manufacturer or authorized dealers. Using aftermarket or counterfeit parts can lead to complications and void your watch's warranty.

3. What is the turnaround time for repairs?

Depending on the complexity of the repair, the turnaround time can vary. It's essential to ask the repair company for an estimated time frame so you can plan accordingly. Keep in mind that high-quality repairs may take longer, but it's worth the wait to ensure your watch remains in top condition.

4. What types of warranties do you offer?

A reputable watch repair company should stand behind their work and offer a warranty on their repairs. Ask about the duration and coverage of their warranty, including the parts and labor. This provides you with peace of mind and protection should any issues arise after the repair.

5. Can you provide a detailed estimate for the repair?

Before sending your watch in for repair, request a detailed estimate outlining the necessary work and associated costs. A professional company should be transparent about the costs and willing to explain any additional charges if they arise during the repair process.

6. How do you ensure the safety and security of my watch during shipping and handling?

Luxury watches are valuable investments, and their safety should be a top priority. Inquire about the company's procedures for handling and storing your watch, as well as their shipping methods and insurance coverage. Make sure your watch is protected against theft, damage, and loss during transit and while in their possession.

7. Can you provide references or testimonials from satisfied customers?

A well-established watch repair company should have a track record of satisfied customers. Ask for references or read online reviews to gauge the company's reputation and quality of work. This will help you make an informed decision and trust that your luxury timepiece is in good hands.

In conclusion, asking the right questions before entrusting your expensive watch to a repair company is crucial. By considering their experience, credentials, use of genuine parts, warranties, and security measures, you can ensure that your valuable timepiece receives the best possible care. At Excel Watch Repair, we are proud to have served thousands of satisfied customers and look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence for many more years to come.

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Bulova watches have a long and storied history dating back over a century. The company was founded in 1875 by Joseph Bulova, a Czech immigrant who opened a small jewelry store in New York City. Today, it is owned by the Citizen Watch Company. From the beginning, Bulova was known for his innovative approach to design and his commitment to precision. Let’s take a look at some of the key moments in this company’s fascinating history.

In the 1910s, Bulova introduced his first line of men's wristwatches, which were a radical departure from the pocket watches that were the norm at the time. These early Bulova watches were among the first to be mass-produced and were marketed as affordable, accurate timepieces that could be worn on the wrist.

In the 1920s, Bulova began using a new manufacturing process that allowed the company to produce watches more quickly and efficiently. This innovation, combined with Bulova's focus on design and craftsmanship, helped the company to become a leader in the watch industry.

In 1927, Bulova set up an observatory on the rooftop of 580 5th Avenue to determine universal time, and broadcast the first radio advertisement saying, "At the tone, it's eight o'clock, Bulova Watch Time.”Also in 1927, Charles Lindbergh became the first man to fly nonstop across the Atlantic, earning him the Bulova watch prize and the opportunity to be the face of the Lone Eagle wristwatch.

In 1941, Bulova produced the world's first television advertisement, which aired before a baseball game. In the same decade, Bulova introduced the "sports time" analog game clock used in various sports, including hockey and basketball.

During World War II, Bulova produced a range of military-grade watches for the US Armed Forces. These rugged and reliable timepieces were used by soldiers, sailors, and pilots and became an integral part of military life.

In the post-war years, Bulova continued to innovate and expand, introducing new lines of watches for both men and women. The company also began to branch out into other areas, such as clocks, jewelry, and even television advertising. Bulova also opened the Joseph Bulova School of Watchmaking to help disabled veterans learn a trade and reenter civilian life.

In the 1960s, Bulova introduced the Accutron, a revolutionary timepiece that used a tuning fork as a means of oscillation instead of a traditional balance wheel. This innovation made the Accutron the most accurate watch on the market and helped to solidify Bulova's reputation as a leader in the industry. The Accutron was used in all the timekeeping mechanisms on the first spacecraft to reach the moon.

In the decades that followed, Bulova continued to produce a wide range of watches for both men and women, with a focus on design, craftsmanship, and innovation. This included the Accutron Quartz, and a line of watches with digital LCD time displays. The company was acquired by Citizen in 2008, and in 2010 it released a limited edition replica of the Spaceview 214, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Accutron. 

In 2016 Bulova introduced the CURV, the world's first curved chronograph watch, at Baselworld, and in 2018 it released the ARIA, a watch with a built-in microphone and speaker that allows the wearer to make phone calls and access voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant.

Today, Bulova is still known for its high-quality timepieces and is a respected brand in the watch industry. From its humble beginnings in a small jewelry store in New York City to its current status as a leader in the watch industry, Bulova has always been at the forefront of design and technology. Whether you are looking for a timeless classic or a cutting-edge timepiece, Bulova has a watch that will suit your needs.

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1. Patek Philippe - approximately 280-320 parts
2. Audemars Piguet - approximately 270-320 parts
3. Vacheron Constantin - approximately 260-310 parts
4. A. Lange & Söhne - approximately 200-300 parts
5. Jaeger-LeCoultre - approximately 200-250 parts
6. Ulysse Nardin - approximately 200-250 parts
7. Roger Dubuis - approximately 200-250 parts
8. Blancpain - approximately 200-250 parts
9. Breguet - approximately 200-250 parts
10. Girard-Perregaux - approximately 200-250 parts
11. IWC - approximately 150-200 parts
12. Omega - approximately 150-200 parts
13. Breitling - approximately 150-200 parts
14. Tag Heuer - approximately 150-200 parts
15. Rolex - approximately 130-160 parts
16. Hamilton - approximately 130-160 parts
17. Longines - approximately 130-160 parts
18. Tissot - approximately 130-160 parts
19. Chopard - approximately 130-160 parts
20. Hublot - approximately 130-160 parts

* Keep in mind that this is an approximation and the number of parts can vary based on the specific model and movement. 

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Citizen is a watch brand that is famous all over the world. It has been making watches for almost one hundred years. Many times, over the years, Citizen has been at the forefront of the watchmaking industry. It’s a company that is always looking to be better and more modern. The list of successful Citizen technologies and products is long, including its solar-charging technology. From durable, feature-rich watches to ones with long-lasting charges to simple and elegant timepieces, Citizen has a wide range of watches suitable for any interest.

In the early days of Citizen, its focus was on creating inexpensive watches in Japan. It was founded in the 1930s by investors in Japan and Switzerland, although its roots go back to 1918. At that time, the brand was registered in Switzerland by Rodolphe Schmid, for the watches he sold in Japan. When Citizen was founded in the 1930s, it used the Shokosha Watch Research Institute and Schmid’s assembly plant. Citizen gradually became more popular in Japan until World War II, although it had little success on a global scale.

A few years later, the brand would have it’s first major success. It started to make a name for itself by focusing on creating new technologies. In 1959, Citizen came out with the first timepiece in Japan that was fully waterproof, called the Parameter. The success of this product led to the development of a whole line of diving watches from Citizen. More and more successes would follow.

In addition to being one of the brands that pioneered and introduced quartz movements to the public, Citizen also developed the Eco-Drive movement. These days, Eco-Drive is well known and respected within the watch industry, as it was one of the first movements to charge via solar power. It first arrived in 1976, and Citizen is proud of being environmentally aware from such an early stage.

The Citizen corporate philosophy is based on precision, accuracy and quality. In 1993, Citizen introduced the first multi-band atomic timekeeping watch in the world. This timepiece guarantees precision by synchronizing its time to atomic clocks around the world. More recently, in 2018 Citizen partnered with Disney to create a co-branded collection of watches based on Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars.

If you’re looking for a quality name-brand timepiece, it’s hard to go wrong with a Citizen watch. 

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At Excel Watch Repair we understand the sentimental value your Swiss Army watch can have. We can help you repair or restore your watch and make it like new again. Here are some of the common repairs we perform on Swiss Army watches:

Crystal Replacement

We can replace the crystal inside your watch with a new one if it’s broken. Watch crystals come in three main materials: sapphire (both natural and synthetic), mineral glass, and acrylic. 

Acrylic crystals are less expensive. They scratch easily, and can crack if hit hard enough. The good news is that if the scratches aren’t too severe, it’s easy enough to buff them out. Mineral glass is the most popular material for crystals. Its crystals aren’t as easily scratched, but they can shatter with sufficient impact. Synthetic sapphire is the hardest of the materials. Crystals made from this material are difficult to scratch. Sapphire crystals are expensive, and many luxury watches use them, but they are still not completely shatterproof.

Total Watch Overhaul

Your watch is a sophisticated piece of machinery, much like a car. And just like a car, your watch needs regular maintenance to run at its best. At Excel Watch Repair we can give your watch a complete overhaul and check for minor problems that should be taken care of, before they develop into major and much more costly problems.

Movement Service

Your watch’s movement is like its beating heart. At Excel Watch Repair, we can professionally clean and lubricate your movement, as well as take care of any damaged parts. If needed, we can manufacture parts to replace the originals. If your entire movement needs replacing, we have many movements in stock at our location.

Battery Replacement

We can replace the battery on your Swiss Army watch. After replacing the battery, we’ll test the watch to ensure that it still meets its water resistance rating.

Stem and Crown Replacement

Replacing the stem and crown of a watch can be difficult, as they’re often specific to that specific model of watch. At Excel Watch Repair we have the expertise and experience that is needed to do this delicate operation correctly.

Band and Clasp Repair

The band of your Swiss Army watch can have its life prolonged with new watch pins or a new clasp. At Excel Watch Repair we can also adjust the fit of the watch band if needed, making it larger or smaller. Your watch band should fit comfortably, and it shouldn’t slide on your wrist. At Excel watch repair we can tailor your band to fit your wrist perfectly.

Hand Repair

We can replace the hands of your watch if they have fallen off or become damaged.

Dial Refinishing

If your Swiss Army watch has a dial that is damaged or looks worn, we can restore it at Excel Watch Repair.

Check and Repair Seals and Gaskets

At Excel Watch Repair, we can check the seals and gaskets of your water-resistant Swiss Army watch to make sure they’re working properly. This is important to do every two years, because a malfunctioning seal or gasket could let water into the watch, causing costly damage.

Conclusion

Those are the most common repairs we do for Swiss Army watches! If your Swiss Army watch is in need of attention, please contact us at Excel Watch Repair. We are happy to serve you!

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If your Gucci watch is having problems, or if it’s due for its regular maintenance, we can help you at Excel Watch Repair. We handle all the service requirements of Gucci watches. We understand how much value your watch has to you—not only monetary value, but sentimental value as well. Here are some of the most common repairs we do on Gucci watches:

Crystal Replacement

If the crystal inside your is broken, we can replace it with a new one. Crystals are available in three different materials: acrylic, mineral glass, and sapphire (both natural and synthetic).

Acrylic is the cheapest material, although it can be scratched easily. These scratches can be buffed out easily, however. Acrylic crystals can crack, though, if they’re hit with enough force. Mineral glass is the most popular choice. It’s not as easily scratch as acrylic, but it can still crack. The hardest material is sapphire, and it’s also the most expensive. Many luxury watch manufacturers use it. Sapphire crystals are very durable, but they’re not completely shatterproof.

Total Watch Overhaul

Your Gucci watch is a sophisticated piece of machinery, like an automobile. As such, it needs to be regularly maintained to make sure it’s running properly. At Excel Watch Repair, we can give your watch a complete overhaul to check it and make sure there are no minor problems. This is an important task, as little problems can develop into major, and much more costly, problems over time if left unchecked.

Movement Service

Your watch’s movement is like its beating heart. At Excel Watch Repair, we can professionally clean and lubricate your movement, as well as take care of any damaged parts. If needed, we can also manufacture parts to replace originals. If your entire movement needs replacing, we have many movements in stock at our location.

Battery Replacement

We can replace the battery inside your Gucci watch if needed. Once the battery has been replace, we can test your watch’s water resistance to ensure that it’s still intact.

Stem and Crown Replacement

Replacing the stem and crown of a watch isn’t easy. Often these parts are very specific to the watch model. At Excel Watch Repair, our professionals have the expertise and experience needed to do this delicate operation correctly.

Clasp and Band Repair

If the clasp on your watch doesn’t properly fit your wrist, we can make the necessary adjustments.

Hand Repair

If the hands of your watch have become damaged or have fallen off, we can replace them.

Dial Refinishing

If the dial on your Gucci watch has become damaged or worn, we can repair it so that it looks new again.

Check and Repair Seals and Gaskets

If your Gucci watch is water-resistant, it’s important to check it every couple of years to make sure that all the seals and gaskets are working properly. If one of these seals or gaskets malfunctions, water could leak into the watch. This would cause costly damage, so this check is very important.

Conclusion

And that concludes our look at the most common repairs we do on Gucci watches. If your Gucci watch needs some attention, please contact us at Excel Watch Repair. We’re ready to serve you!

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