Repair Shop Hours: Mon. 10-3, Tue-Fri. 10-4:30, Sat. 10-2 pm || Watch Sales: November's Everyday Discount Days at our Downtown Store

Comprehensive Guide to Watch Repair Costs: Battery Replacements, Overhauls, and Crystal Repairs

Whether you're a collector of luxury watches, own a sentimental family heirloom, or simply need a quick fix for your everyday timepiece, knowing what to expect when it comes to watch repair costs is essential. Watch repairs can range from simple fixes, like battery replacements, to more complex services, such as a full movement overhaul. Understanding the average costs for different types of repairs will help you make informed decisions about your watch care and maintenance.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most common watch repair services and their typical price ranges, from battery replacements to full restorations.

Common Watch Repair Services and Their Costs

  1. Battery Replacement
    • Cost: $30 to $60
    • Battery replacement is the most common service for quartz watches. The price can vary based on the complexity of the watch and whether it’s waterproof. High-end or luxury watches may cost more due to additional water sealing or specialized tools required​.

  2. Crystal Replacement
    • Cost: $70 to $200
    • The watch crystal protects the dial and can be made of different materials such as acrylic, mineral glass, or sapphire. Acrylic is the cheapest to replace, while sapphire crystal—common in luxury watches—is the most expensive.

  3. Movement Overhaul
    • Cost: $150 to $500 (and up to $1,000 for luxury watches)
    • A movement overhaul involves completely disassembling, cleaning, lubricating, and reassembling the internal mechanisms of the watch. Mechanical and automatic watches typically require this service more often than quartz watches, as their intricate movements are prone to wear.

  4. Crown and Stem Replacement
    • Cost: $75 to $250
    • If your watch’s crown or stem is broken or no longer functioning, it will need to be replaced. This repair can vary in cost depending on the make and model of the watch, with luxury brands often being on the higher end.

  5. Band Replacement
    • Cost: $50 to $100+
    • Replacing a watch band can be a quick and affordable fix. Leather, steel, and other materials fall into the lower end of the spectrum, while precious metals like gold will increase the price significantly​.

  6. Dial Restoration
    • Cost: $250 to $500
    • Vintage watches often require dial restoration due to fading, corrosion, or damage. The cost depends on the complexity of the restoration and the watch’s rarity.

  7. Complete Watch Restoration
    • Cost: $500 to $2,000+
    • For vintage or antique watches that are no longer working, a complete restoration might be necessary. This extensive service involves repairing or replacing multiple components, including the movement, dial, hands, and case. The total cost will depend on the watch’s value and the extent of the work required.

Factors That Influence Watch Repair Costs

Several factors can impact the cost of your watch repair:
  • Brand: Luxury brands like Rolex, Omega, or Patek Philippe often come with higher repair costs due to proprietary parts and specialized expertise required.
  • Type of Movement: Automatic and mechanical watches are generally more expensive to repair than quartz watches because of their intricate mechanics​.
  • Age and Condition: Vintage or antique watches may require custom parts, adding to the cost. Watches that haven’t been regularly serviced might also need more extensive repairs​.
  • Location: Watch repair prices can vary depending on where the service is being performed. Shops in metropolitan areas or high-end boutiques usually charge more than independent watchmakers.

How to Save on Watch Repair Costs

While some repair costs are unavoidable, there are a few steps you can take to keep your expenses manageable:
  1. Regular Maintenance: Scheduling routine maintenance for your watch every few years can help prevent major repairs in the future.
  2. Proper Storage: Store your watch in a clean, dry environment to prevent dust and moisture from causing damage.
  3. Shop Comparison: Compare prices from different repair shops. Local, independent watchmakers often charge less than branded boutiques.
  4. DIY for Minor Fixes: Simple repairs like strap can sometimes be done yourself to save on costs​.

Watch repairs can vary greatly depending on the type of service needed, the brand, and the complexity of the watch. From a simple battery replacement to a full restoration, understanding the average costs can help you budget and plan for the care of your timepiece. Regular maintenance and proper storage can also reduce the likelihood of costly repairs down the road. If your watch holds sentimental or financial value, investing in professional repair services will ensure it remains in perfect working condition for years to come. 

Contact Us for Fast, Professional Watch Repairs

Whether you need an emergency repair or a full movement overhaul for your Wittnauer or Bulova watch, Sangamon Watches Repair Center is here to help. Please contact us today to schedule your service or take advantage of our nationwide mail-in repair options for secure and fast service.

Disclaimer:
Sangamon Watch Company and Sangamon Watches Repair Center are independent service providers, except for the Sangamon brand. We are not affiliated with any other watch brands or their parent companies. All brand names, trademarks, and logos mentioned, aside from Sangamon, are the property of their respective owners and are used solely for the purpose of identifying the products and services we provide.