Rolex Watch Servicing for Second-Hand Rolex Buyers

Rolex watches are not just timepieces; they are symbols of luxury, precision, and craftsmanship with Rolex watch servicing helping to preserve and maintain these masterpieces. Owning a Rolex is a testament to one's appreciation for excellence and a commitment to timeless elegance. However, like any mechanical masterpiece, even a Rolex requires regular servicing to ensure it continues to function as it did when the Rolex was made. This is especially relevant to pre-owned Rolex watches as you might not have access to its prior service history or know how well the previous owner looked after it. Servicing will give you the piece of mind that it is working as it should.  

What is Rolex Watch Servicing?

Rolex watch servicing is a maintenance process designed to uphold the precision and longevity of these iconic timepieces. This service involves a thorough assessment, disassembly, cleaning, and replacement of worn-out components with genuine Rolex watch parts. The watch undergoes precise calibration, lubrication, and rigorous testing for accuracy, water resistance, and functionality. Rolex watch servicing is crucial not only for preserving the investment value of these luxury watches but also for continuing to meet the brand's incredible standards of precision and performance. Entrusting your Rolex watch to authorised Rolex service centres guarantees they have the expertise needed to carry out this intricate process, safeguarding the enduring legacy of your timepiece. Rolex service costs are typically subject to the condition of the watch and the type of service carried out, with a full-service starting from £350 with extra costs depending on the services required and the condition of the watch.

Why is Rolex Watch Servicing So Crucial?

“Rolex watches are designed and built to last… As a result, there is no limit on how long a Rolex watch can keep working.”

Rolex watches are renowned for their precision engineering, with intricate movements consisting of hundreds of tiny components working seamlessly together. Over time, these components can experience wear and tear, affecting the watch's accuracy. Regular servicing helps maintain the precision and reliability that Rolex is famous for, allowing Rolex watches to last for lifetimes, being handed down through generations. By addressing issues promptly and replacing worn-out parts, watchmakers can help prevent more significant problems from arising. Well-maintained Rolex watches are also known for retaining their value and can even appreciate over time. Having a comprehensive service history adds to the watch's value, making it more desirable to collectors and enthusiasts if you wish to sell it in the future. 

Where Can I Get My Rolex Watch Serviced?

When seeking professional Rolex watch servicing, it's essential to choose authorised Rolex service centres to ensure the highest standards of expertise and authenticity. Rolex recommends relying on their official network of Rolex service centres and authorised dealers for Rolex watch repairs and to service Rolex watches. These specialised facilities are equipped with the necessary tools, genuine Rolex parts, and trained professionals who understand the intricate details of these luxury timepieces. This not only guarantees the preservation of your Rolex watch's precision and value but is also a reliable and trustworthy source for genuine components and expert craftsmanship. Certified Rolex service centres and authorised dealers will also be able to provide important certifications such as a service guarantee. At S&R Jewellers, we try to make sure that all of our pre-owned Rolex watches have any necessary official papers including their service history and warranty cards and have a thorough examination to verify their authenticity. For any Rolex watches with missing documentation, we do an in-depth inspection to ensure that they are all genuine Rolex watches.

How Do I Know If My Rolex Watch Needs Servicing?

Rolex recommends servicing your Rolex watches approximately every 10 years depending on the model and how often you wear your watch, however, there are signs of when your Rolex watch is ready to be serviced or if it needs servicing earlier. 

• If your Rolex watch is running too slow or too fast, this is a sign that it needs cleaning and lubrication to allow the movement to run smoothly. 
• If there is any visible damage or any worn-out parts on your Rolex watch, sending it to a Rolex service centre to be serviced allows for any parts to be replaced with genuine Rolex parts. 
• Regularly check the water resistance of your watch and if you notice it not performing as it should in water, then it’s a good time to service your Rolex watch to ensure the seals are in optimal condition. 
• Vintage Rolex watches may require more frequent servicing, even if they appear to be functioning well, as the components may be more susceptible to wear and tear over time.

The Rolex Watch Servicing Process 

Assessment 

The Rolex watch servicing process begins with a thorough assessment of the watch. This involves checking the exterior for any visible damage, inspecting the movement for signs of wear, and testing its accuracy. The watchmaker will take notes of any issues that may require attention during the servicing.

Preparation & Dismantling

A Rolex watch is a complex assembly of gears, springs, and levers. During servicing, the movement is carefully removed from the case and bracelet and then disassembled to access each component.

Rolex Watch Parts Cleaning 

Every component is meticulously cleaned to remove accumulated dirt, dust, and old lubricants so that when re-assembled, everything works as new. The Rolex watch parts are lowered into an ultrasonic bath that uses high-frequency sound waves through liquid to clean the surface of the parts.

Reassembly

Once everything is in order, the Rolex watch is carefully reassembled with any worn-out or damaged parts replaced with genuine Rolex components. This step is crucial in maintaining the watch's performance and longevity as Rolex watch parts are precision-made to meet the brand's extremely high standards. When re-assembling the watch, proper lubrication is essential for the smooth operation of the watch movement. The watchmaker applies specialised lubricants in precise quantities to reduce friction and prevent premature wear.

Rolex Quality Control Checks & Watch Finishing

The case and bracelet are disassembled and polished to restore their lustre. Rolex polishing ensures the watch looks as good as new. Before the watch is returned to its owner, it undertakes a final quality control check. This includes a visual inspection, accuracy testing, and checking that all functions operate correctly.

Performance Testing 

The watch goes through rigorous testing for accuracy and quality. The watchmaker adjusts the timing and calibrates the movement so it meets Rolex's standards for precision and is placed in a Rolex watch winder for 24 hours to be sure that it maintains its performance over time. Rolex watches are known for their water resistance. After a Rolex watch service, each watch experiences water resistance testing to check it is watertight and can withstand the conditions for which it was designed.

Two-Year Service Guarantee

Rolex's two-year service guarantee shows the brand's commitment to the enduring quality and performance of its timepieces. When a Rolex watch undergoes professional servicing at an authorised service centre, the brand provides a comprehensive two-year service guarantee. This assurance speaks to the confidence Rolex has in the precision and durability of its watches post-servicing. During this period, any issues arising from the service or related to the components replaced are addressed at no additional cost. The two-year service guarantee not only instils confidence in the customer but also reflects Rolex's dedication to maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship and customer satisfaction throughout the lifespan of their iconic watches. As well as a service guarantee, Rolex provides a number of documents inside the Rolex watch box to act as a guarantee when purchasing a Rolex watch, such as Rolex warranty cards. These can increase the value of your watch and are an important consideration when buying a second-hand Rolex to make sure you're purchasing an authentic Rolex watch.

Buying a Pre-owned Rolex From S&R Jewellers

Owning a Rolex watch is a privilege, and maintaining its pristine condition requires the expertise of skilled watchmakers. Rolex watch servicing is a meticulous process that goes beyond routine maintenance and guarantees its continued precision.

At S&R Jewellers, we ensure that all pre-owned Rolex watches have been serviced, and if one is required then we send it to a Rolex service centre before being made available for purchase. Visit one of our London showrooms to discover second-hand Rolex or if you’re looking to sell your Rolex watch, then get in touch for a valuation.

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