How Often Should You Service a Watch? Intervals by Brand and Movement
Manufacturer recommendations vs real-world practice
| Brand | Official guidance | Community practice |
|---|---|---|
| Rolex | ~10 years (modern) | 5–7 yrs daily wear; 3–5 yrs vintage |
| Omega | 5–8 years | 8–10 yrs for modern co-axial if in spec |
| Patek Philippe | 'Regular service' | ~5–7 yrs daily wear |
| TAG Heuer | 5–6 years | matches guidance |
| Grand Seiko / Seiko | 2–3 years (conservative) | 8–10 yrs for Spring Drive |
| Longines | 4–6 years | 5-yr warranty first, then as needed |
Service on symptoms, not calendars
Modern lubricants and movements routinely outlast official intervals. The signals that actually matter: accuracy drift, shortening power reserve, rough winding or setting, moisture, unusual noise. A healthy watch gaining 2 s/day does not need a $900 service because a schedule says so.
Between services
A $30–$60 pressure test annually keeps dive watches safe in water — vastly cheaper than a moisture-damaged movement.