Watch Repair

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Time to Repair Your Watch

Everything you invest on needs maintenance at some point. By creating this guide, we make sure that you find all the answers of your questions about what things to keep in the list when repairing your special Watch piece, and the services we can help with.

1. Inaccurate Timekeeping: If your watch consistently runs fast or slow, it may be a sign that it needs repair. This could be due to a variety of issues, including a worn-out movement or a magnetized balance spring.

2. Visible Damage: Scratches, dents, or cracks on the case, crystal, or dial of your watch can compromise its integrity and aesthetics. Prompt repair can prevent further damage and restore its original beauty.

3. Loose Components: If the crown, pushers, or bracelet links of your watch feel loose or wobbly, it may indicate worn-out or damaged components that need attention.

4. Unusual Sounds: Grinding, clicking, or rattling noises coming from your watch can be a sign of internal damage or misalignment. It's essential to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage.

5. Water Intrusion: If your watch is no longer water-resistant or has been exposed to moisture, it may require immediate repair to prevent rust, corrosion, or damage to the movement.

Common Watch Breakages & Repairs

1. Broken Crystal: A cracked or shattered crystal can compromise the integrity of your watch and detract from its appearance. Replacement of the crystal is essential to restore clarity and protect the dial.

2. Damaged Crown: A loose or damaged crown can affect the functionality of your watch, preventing you from setting the time or winding the movement. Repair or replacement of the crown is necessary to ensure proper operation.

3. Bracelet Repairs: Broken or damaged links, clasps, or pins on your watch bracelet can affect its fit and security. Repair or replacement of these components is essential to maintain comfort and functionality.

4. Movement Issues: If your watch is running fast, slow, or erratically, it may indicate internal issues with the movement. Servicing or overhaul of the movement is necessary to restore accurate timekeeping.

Adjusting Your Watch for Size

1. Bracelet Sizing: Proper sizing of your watch bracelet ensures a comfortable and secure fit on your wrist. Adjustments can be made by adding or removing links, adjusting the clasp, or replacing the bracelet altogether.

2. Strap Replacement: If you prefer a different style or material for your watch strap, it can be easily replaced to customize the look and feel of your timepiece.

Should You Repair or Buy a New Watch?

1. **Consider the Cost**: In some cases, the cost of repairing a watch may exceed the value of the timepiece itself. It's essential to weigh the cost of repair against the cost of a new watch to determine the most cost-effective option.

2. **Sentimental Value**: Watches with sentimental value may be worth repairing, regardless of the cost. If your watch has sentimental significance or has been passed down through generations, repair may be the preferred option to preserve its history and memories.

Buy or Sell Broken Watches

1. Sell for Parts: If your watch is beyond repair or the cost of repair is prohibitive, you may consider selling it for parts. Many collectors and enthusiasts are interested in purchasing broken watches for restoration projects or spare parts.

2. Buyer Beware: When purchasing a broken watch for repair, it's essential to consider the cost and availability of replacement parts, as well as the expertise required for repair. 

Should You Repair or Modify Your Watch?

1. Preserve Originality: If your watch has historical or collectible value, it's essential to preserve its originality and integrity. Modifications or alterations can detract from its authenticity and value.

2. Enhance Functionality: If your watch no longer meets your needs or preferences, modifications such as adding a new complication or upgrading the movement may be worth considering. However, it's essential to consult with a qualified watchmaker to ensure the modifications are done correctly.

Watch Repair Turnaround Time

1. Evaluation: Upon receiving your watch for repair, our expert technicians will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the scope of work required and provide you with an accurate estimate of repair costs and turnaround time.

2. Prompt Service: We understand the importance of timely repairs and strive to complete all repairs as quickly as possible without compromising quality. Our goal is to return your watch to you in pristine condition and fully functional.

Why You Need a Professional for Watch Repair

1. Expertise: Our team of experienced watchmakers has the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to diagnose and repair a wide range of watch issues, from simple adjustments to complex overhauls.

2. Precision: Watch repair requires precision and attention to detail to ensure proper function and longevity. Our meticulous approach ensures that your watch is repaired to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.

How to Clean and Store Your Watch

1. Cleaning: Regular cleaning of your watch with a soft, lint-free cloth can help remove dirt, dust, and oils that can accumulate over time. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the finish or components of your watch.

2. Storage: When not in use, store your watch in a dry, climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Consider using a watch box or pouch to protect your watch from scratches, dust, and moisture.

What Services do we provide you?

Battery Replacement

Is your timepiece losing its tick? It may just need a new heartbeat. Our battery replacement service ensures that your watch keeps time with precision and reliability. We carefully select the appropriate battery for your watch, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Let us breathe new life into your beloved timepiece, one battery at a time.

- Our team examine the battery compartment, ensuring it's free from any corrosion or debris that could affect the new battery's performance.

- Using specialized tools, we remove the old battery with precision, minimizing the risk of damage to delicate components.

- Before installing the new battery, we conduct a thorough inspection of the watch's movement to identify any underlying issues that may impact its performance.

- Once the new battery is installed, we perform a series of tests to verify its functionality and ensure your watch is operating at optimal levels.

- Our team examine the battery compartment, ensuring it's free from any corrosion or debris that could affect the new battery's performance.

- Using specialized tools, we remove the old battery with precision, minimizing the risk of damage to delicate components.

- Before installing the new battery, we conduct a thorough inspection of the watch's movement to identify any underlying issues that may impact its performance.

- Once the new battery is installed, we perform a series of tests to verify its functionality and ensure your watch is operating at optimal levels.

Link Removal

Is your watch band a little too loose or a tad too tight? Our link removal service offers the perfect solution. Whether you need to adjust the size of your bracelet for a comfortable fit or customize the look of your watch, our skilled technicians will carefully remove or add links to achieve the perfect balance. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to a watch that fits just right.

- We take precise measurements to ensure the removal or addition of links is done with accuracy and precision.

- Using specialized tools and techniques, we carefully remove or add links to your watch bracelet, maintaining its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

- We take great care to ensure a seamless blend between the removed or added links and the existing ones, creating a harmonious and balanced look.

- After the link adjustment is complete, we conduct a final inspection to ensure the bracelet fits comfortably and securely on your wrist.

Vintage Piece Inspection

Unlock the secrets of your vintage treasure with our vintage piece inspection service. Whether it's a family heirloom or a recent acquisition, our experienced watchmakers will conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine its authenticity, condition, and value. From identifying original components to detecting signs of wear or restoration, we'll provide you with valuable insights and recommendations to help you make informed decisions about your vintage timepiece.

- Our watchmakers carefully examine the exterior of the watch, looking for any signs of wear, damage, or alteration that may affect its authenticity or value.

- We inspect the movement under high magnification, checking for original components, serial numbers, and any signs of repair or modification.

- Using specialized tools and techniques, we assess the condition of the case, crystal, dial, and hands, noting any imperfections or discrepancies.

- After the inspection is complete, we provide you with a detailed report of our findings, along with recommendations for any necessary repairs, restoration, or maintenance to preserve the integrity and value of your vintage watch.

Clasp Repair

Is your watch clasp refusing to stay closed? Our clasp repair service offers a quick and effective solution to ensure your watch stays securely fastened. Whether it's a loose spring bar, a worn-out latch, or a damaged hinge, our skilled technicians will diagnose and repair any issues affecting your clasp, restoring its functionality and reliability. Say goodbye to accidental openings and hello to peace of mind with Carats and Stones.

- Our technicians carefully disassemble the clasp mechanism, inspecting each component for wear, damage, or misalignment.

- We repair or replace any faulty or damaged parts, ensuring a secure and reliable closure.

- Using specialized tools and techniques, we reassemble the clasp with precision, ensuring smooth operation and a perfect fit.

- After the repair is complete, we conduct a series of tests to verify the clasp's functionality and durability, ensuring it meets our exacting standards of quality and performance.

Crystal Replacement

Restore clarity and brilliance to your watch with our crystal replacement service. Whether it's scratched, cracked, or chipped, a new crystal can breathe new life into your timepiece, enhancing its appearance and protecting its dial from damage. With a wide range of options to choose from, including sapphire, mineral, and acrylic, we'll help you find the perfect crystal to suit your style and budget.

- Our skilled technicians carefully remove the old crystal from your watch, taking care to avoid any damage to the surrounding components.

- We select a replacement crystal that matches the specifications and dimensions of your original crystal, ensuring a seamless fit and optimal clarity.

- Using specialized tools and techniques, we reassemble the clasp with p- Using specialized tools and techniques, we install the new crystal with precision, ensuring it's securely seated and free from any defects or imperfections.recision, ensuring smooth operation and a perfect fit.

- After installation, we inspect the crystal for any signs of misalignment or distortion, making any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and clear visibility of the dial.

Crown Replacement / Repair

Is your watch crown feeling a little loose or unresponsive? Our crown replacement and repair service offers the perfect solution. Whether it's a worn-out stem, a damaged crown, or a faulty winding mechanism, our skilled technicians will diagnose and repair any issues affecting your watch's crown, restoring its functionality and ensuring smooth operation for years to come. Say goodbye to winding woes and hello to hassle-free timekeeping with Carats and Stones.

- Our technicians carefully examine the crown mechanism, identifying any signs of wear, damage, or misalignment that may affect its functionality.

- We repair or replace any faulty or damaged components, ensuring a secure fit and smooth operation of the crown.

- Using specialized tools and techniques, we reassemble the crown mechanism with precision, ensuring proper alignment and functionality.

- After the repair is complete, we conduct a series of tests to verify the crown's performance, including winding, setting, and water resistance, ensuring it meets our exacting standards of quality and reliability.

Running Fast / Slow

Is your watch losing track of time? Our running fast/slow service offers the perfect solution. Whether it's a magnetized movement, a worn-out mainspring, or a misaligned balance wheel, our skilled technicians will diagnose and repair any issues affecting your watch's timekeeping, ensuring accurate and reliable performance. Say goodbye to timing troubles and hello to precision timekeeping with Carats and Stones.

- Our technicians conduct a thorough assessment of your watch's movement, identifying any issues or irregularities affecting its accuracy.

- We inspect the escapement, balance wheel, and hairspring under high magnification, checking for any signs of wear, damage, or misalignment.

- Using specialized tools and techniques, we make any necessary adjustments or repairs to restore the movement's proper function and performance.

- After the repair is complete, we conduct a series of tests to verify the watch's accuracy and reliability, ensuring it meets our exacting standards of excellence.

Professional Watch Repair Near You

If you're looking for jewelry repair in San Francisco, we invite you to read what our customers have been saying about us over our many decades in the business. To schedule a free consultation, call us at 415-875-9438, schedule online, or stop by and introduce yourself. We're proud to be the trusted family jeweler to so many who call San Francisco home, and we'd love to add you to our ever-growing family tree.