Can You Repair a Watch at Home?

Yes, it is possible to repair a watch at home, but it's not an easy task. If you have a strong interest in mechanics and a passion for intricate devices, you might find the challenge of repairing a watch a rewarding one.

My Journey into Watch Repair

My fascination with mechanical devices started as a young teenager when I saved my father's broken alarm clock from the trash. I took it apart and managed to fix it, bringing joy to my father when it started working again.Ever since then, I have been keen on clocks and, eventually, I became a hobbyist and collected 12 fascinating clocks.

When my father passed away, I inherited his three mechanical watches and one quartz watch, all of which were broken. Unable to find a repairer who wouldn't charge exorbitant fees, I decided to give it a try myself. After three months, all three mechanical watches were working, and I had the beginnings of my current collection, which now includes 58 watches. I have also been helping friends and neighbors repair their watches and change batteries.

Watch Engineering: A Breakthrough in Repair

A watch is a highly intricate piece of engineering, but at its core, it is still just a machine. Despite its complexity, it can be repaired. However, unlike modern electronic devices, a watch is a combination of small, delicate, and intricate parts. Proper repair requires a keen eye, steady hands, and, most importantly, the right tools and expertise.

Without Formal Training: A Self-Taught Approach

I have no formal training in watch repair. My skills are entirely self-taught, although I owe much of my success to the internet, eBay for sourcing parts, and various online forums for advice and tips. The internet has been a valuable resource in my journey, as it provides reference materials, part sources, and professional advice.

Starting Your Watch Repair Journey

If you have an interest in watch repair and possess the necessary skills—good eyesight, steady hands, and some basic tools—then you can certainly give it a try. However, it's best to start with a simple and less valuable watch, such as an Ansonia alarm clock. Avoid complex and delicate watches like Elgin anniversary clocks until you have gained more experience and confidence.

The Tools and Skills Required

Repairing a watch requires specialized tools that can be costly. For beginners, a basic set of watchmaker tools, including screwdrivers, precision tweezers, and magnifiers, can cost around $100. However, a full set of high-quality tools can easily exceed $1000. These tools are essential for cleaning, dismantling, reassembling, and oiling the watch.

In addition to tools, the skill is the key to successful watch repair. You need to be able to handle tiny parts with precision, without damaging them or leaving fingerprints or dust. The skill required is not just in manipulating tiny components but in doing so meticulously and without causing any additional damage.

Conclusion: The Possible and the Practicable

While it is possible to repair a watch at home, it is a challenging task that requires significant investment in tools and a great deal of skill and practice. If you are willing to put in the effort and the necessary resources, you can certainly tackle watch repair. Otherwise, it might be best to leave it to professional watchmakers.

Whether you are a seasoned hobbyist or just starting, the journey of repairing watches can be incredibly rewarding. It's a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring appeal of mechanical precision. So, if you're curious and willing to learn, dive into the world of watch repair and enjoy the satisfaction of bringing old and broken watches back to life.