Why Rolex Needs Repair (Not Just Cleaning or Maintenance)
- Master of Horology
- Dec 9, 2025
- 3 min read
Owning a Rolex is about more than telling time — it’s owning a piece of horological art, precision engineering and legacy. But even masterpieces need care, and there may come a time when your Rolex needs more than routine cleaning or winding. That’s when proper repair and servicing steps in. In this post, we’ll walk you through WHY, WHEN, and HOW to repair and service your Rolex — and what to watch out for.
Luxury watches like Rolex are designed to last decades — but no watch is immune to the wear-and-tear of time, usage, and environment.
Some common triggers for repair:
Time-keeping issues: gaining/losing minutes, stopping unexpectedly.
Water-resistance compromised: seals and gaskets age, moisture seeps in, or crown is left open.
Wear on parts: worn mainsprings, degraded lubricants, or rust — especially if exposed to water or humidity.
Physical damage: accidental shock, drops, or pressure that can disturb delicate internal components.
When such issues appear, simple cleaning or “DIY fixes” won’t suffice — intelligent, professional repair is needed.
Examination & Estimate — The watch is inspected; issues are identified before any repair begins.
Disassembly — The movement is removed from the case; bracelet/case taken apart.
Cleaning — Components cleaned, often in an ultrasonic bath, to remove dust, old lubricant, and impurities.
Replacement / Repair of Worn Parts — Worn out springs, gaskets, seals, or damaged parts are replaced with genuine Rolex components.
Reassembly & Lubrication — Movement is carefully reassembled and lubricated to ensure smooth, precise operation.
Polishing & Finishing — Case and bracelet are refinished (polished or satin-finished) to restore original aesthetics — but strictly by professionals to preserve original shape and avoid over-polishing.
Water-Resistance & Precision Testing — After resealing, the watch is pressure tested for waterproofness, then tested for chronometric precision and long-term performance before returning to you.
When done right, a full service can restore your Rolex nearly to showroom-condition — both in looks and performance.
🕒 How Often to Service — And Warning Signs You Need It
As a general guideline, a comprehensive service every 5–10 years is recommended.
But actual frequency depends on how you wear it — heavy daily use, exposure to moisture, or regular physical stress may warrant more frequent service.
Watch out for these warning signs and get your watch checked promptly:
Loss in accuracy — losing or gaining time noticeably.
Difficulty winding, or crown feels stiff/loose.
Moisture or fog under the crystal — a serious red flag for compromised water-resistance.
Unusual noises, jerkiness, or irregular movement of hands.
Ignoring these can lead to more severe damage — rust, wear, or complete failure of the movement.
✅ DIY Tips vs When to Seek Professional Repair
There’s a difference between maintenance / cleaning you can do at home — and complex repairs that should only be handled by experts.
You may clean your watch gently at home if it’s water-resistant:
Use a soft, lint-free (microfiber) cloth to wipe off dust, skin-oil, sweat.
If your Rolex model is confirmed water-resistant: rinse with lukewarm water + mild soap, gently scrub bracelet with a soft brush, rinse and dry — but ensure the crown is fully screwed down first.
⚠️ But avoid these DIY pitfalls:
Never open the case or crown if you’re not trained — moisture or dust can enter and damage the movement.
Don’t use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive materials (they can erode gaskets or finish).
Avoid over-winding or forcing the crown; always follow manufacturer’s instructions.
In short: routine cleaning? Fine. Opening the watch or tinkering with the movement? Leave it to professionals.
Final Thoughts
Your Rolex is more than a mere accessory — it’s a finely engineered instrument, often a treasure passed through generations. Repairing it correctly ensures you preserve not only its function but its legacy.
Whether your watch shows early warning signs or it’s simply been years since its last service — don’t wait. Trust only certified experts, follow careful care practices, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your timepiece will continue to tick elegantly for decades.
for Details Visit at : Master of Horology | The Watch Garage
Pune, Mumabi, Bangalore & Delhi
Comments