Steven Hale Watch Repair (SHWR) is a leading independent workshop specialising in the service, restoration, and repair of luxury, vintage, and high-end mechanical watches. With decades of experience and accreditation from numerous prestige brands, SHWR handles a broad range of repair requests—from straightforward services to intricate restorations. This article outlines the most frequent types of repairs SHWR receives and the reasons behind their demand.

1. Full Servicing (Mechanical Overhaul)

One of the most common repair requests SHWR receives is for full mechanical servicing. This is typically required for modern luxury watches and involves a complete dismantling of the movement, ultrasonic cleaning of all parts, replacement of worn components, lubrication, reassembly, and regulation.

Customers request full servicing when:

• The watch is running fast, slow, or erratically.
• The watch has stopped working entirely.
• The watch hasn’t been serviced in over five years.
• There are visible signs of wear or internal dust and dirt.

A waterproof pressure test is usually performed at the end of the process, ensuring the timepiece meets manufacturer standards where applicable. Turnaround times are generally between 4 and 6 weeks for modern models.

2. Estimates and Diagnosis for Vintage and Classic Watches

For timepieces over 20 years old, SHWR provides a paid estimate service which includes a full diagnosis. The fee covers an inspection and quotation for repair or restoration. This is especially important for vintage pieces, where potential issues may not be immediately visible and bespoke solutions may be needed.

These estimates are a popular first step for collectors or those with heirloom watches seeking to understand the extent and cost of repairs. Because parts for older watches may be discontinued, custom manufacturing or modification is often required.

3. Restoration of Vintage and Complicated Watches

SHWR is particularly renowned for its vintage watch restorations. These jobs can range from sympathetic cosmetic refurbishments to full mechanical overhauls, including the sourcing or creation of obsolete parts.

Common restoration requests include:

• Watches with damaged or missing components.
• Movements suffering from water damage or corrosion.
• Rare and complicated pieces such as chronographs, moonphases, perpetual calendars, and minute repeaters.

In some cases, SHWR uses CAD (computer-aided design) to fabricate unique or no-longer-available components. Restoration projects are often lengthy, with lead times of several months depending on complexity and parts availability.

4. Watch Polishing and Cosmetic Refurbishment

Many customers request polishing services to restore the appearance of their watches. This includes:

• Case and bracelet polishing to remove surface scratches.
• Satin-finishing to restore brushed areas.
• Crystal buffing or replacement where applicable.

Polishing is typically included at no additional cost when a full service is undertaken. However, SHWR is cautious about polishing vintage or collectable models, as over-polishing can reduce long-term value. In these cases, clients are advised on whether to proceed or leave the patina intact.

Standalone polishing services are usually completed within 7 to 10 working days.

5. Component Replacement (Crown, Crystal, Hands, Dial)

Individual component repairs or replacements are also a common request. These are often included as part of a broader service but can be undertaken independently depending on the situation.

Examples include:

• Replacing cracked or scratched crystals.
• Repairing or replacing worn or broken crowns and winding stems.
• Realigning or replacing hands that have become bent or discoloured.
• Refurbishing or replacing damaged dials, either with original parts or expertly refinished alternatives.

This type of repair is especially popular among owners of older watches where cosmetic condition has deteriorated but the movement remains sound.

6. Balance Staff Repairs and Movement Cleaning

Many mechanical watches sent to SHWR require balance staff attention—the component at the heart of the escapement regulating timekeeping. Issues often arise due to:

• Impact or shock damage.
• Dirt and dried lubrication affecting precision.
• Magnetisation of the movement.

A thorough cleaning is almost always required, particularly in watches that haven’t been serviced regularly. Removing dust, particles, and old lubricant can significantly improve timekeeping accuracy and reliability.

7. Express Servicing for Urgent Repairs

SHWR offers an express service for clients needing a faster turnaround—often due to upcoming events, business travel, or gifting deadlines. This service prioritises the repair in the workshop schedule.

Typical turnaround:

• 2 to 4 weeks for modern or less complex timepieces.
• 6 to 8 weeks for vintage watches, depending on parts availability and required work.

Express service availability depends on the specific watch and the nature of the issue.

8. Authorised Servicing for Prestige Brands

SHWR is authorised or accredited to service numerous luxury watch brands. This includes well-known names such as:

• Rolex
• Omega
• Cartier
• Tag Heuer
• Tudor
• Zenith
• Hublot

Being brand-accredited allows SHWR to use genuine parts and follow the manufacturer’s servicing protocols. Watches serviced under this scheme typically receive a two-year warranty on the work. This service is particularly valued by collectors and those wishing to maintain brand authenticity for warranty or resale purposes.

9. Mail-In Repairs and Free Postage Pack

Although not a repair in itself, SHWR’s mail-in service is a popular route for customers to initiate repairs. The company provides a secure, free, pre-paid postal pack which enables clients to send their watches safely to the workshop from anywhere in the UK.

This service includes:

• Secure packaging materials.
• Instructions for documentation and insurance.
• A prompt follow-up with diagnosis and quotation once the watch is received.

Mail-in repairs are especially convenient for clients outside London or those with limited availability to visit in person.

Summary: Most Common Repair Requests

Repair Type & Description

‍Full Servicing: Overhaul of mechanical movement with cleaning, lubrication, and regulation.

Vintage Estimate & Diagnosis: Paid evaluation for watches over 20 years old, often preceding restoration.

Restoration:: Complex or bespoke work on vintage and complicated timepieces.

Polishing and Refurbishment: Cosmetic improvements to case and bracelet; included in full service.

Component Replacement: Crown, crystal, hands, and dial repair or replacement.

Balance Staff & Movement Cleaning: Timing issues resolved by cleaning and adjustment of escapement components.

Express Service: Prioritised repair for urgent time-sensitive needs.

Brand-Authorised Servicing: Official repair for Rolex, Omega, etc., using genuine parts and protocols.

Mail-In Repair Service: Remote submission of watches using free postage pack provided by SHWR.

Final Thoughts

SHWR’s repair services reflect the evolving needs of watch owners—from modern enthusiasts to vintage collectors. The most frequent repair requests are a mix of essential servicing, aesthetic improvements, and specialist restorations. With a focus on craftsmanship, transparency, and brand-authorised expertise, SHWR continues to be a trusted name in the UK watch repair landscape.

Whether you’re looking to breathe new life into a family heirloom or maintain a modern automatic for daily use, understanding these common repair types can help you make informed decisions and preserve the value and performance of your watch.

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