Overview of Breitling overhauls. Learn about our reliable and comprehensive support system.

To enjoy your watch for a long time, it is important to be aware of regular overhauls. Learn the basics of maintenance and when to expect them. This time, we will also explain the overview of Breitling's support and how to use it.

Learn about overhauls

We will provide an overview of what an overhaul entails, as well as the appropriate timing and frequency.

What is an overhaul?

An overhaul is the process of periodically disassembling a watch and inspecting, cleaning, and repairing it. It is an essential process for keeping a watch in good condition and allowing it to be used for a long time.

This maintenance, which involves disassembling over 100 movement parts, is like a regular health check for humans.

Just like the human body, the internal condition of a watch cannot be determined from the outside. It is necessary to disassemble the watch body, check the internal condition, and then periodically clean, inspect, repair, or replace parts.

Overhauls are essential maintenance for both mechanical and quartz watches. Regardless of whether they are powered by a battery or a mainspring, they are still precision machines.

Timing and frequency

The recommended frequency for an overhaul is every four to six years, and Breitling also recommends a maintenance service every two years.

However, the frequency will vary depending on the environment in which the watch is used and the storage conditions. For example, if you own multiple watches and do not wear the same one every day, or if the storage environment is good, it is likely that the watch will not deteriorate easily.

On the other hand, if you experience any symptoms that concern you, it is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible, regardless of the recommended time frame.

Breitling Support

We will explain the support you can receive from Breitling when you request maintenance such as an overhaul. We will also deepen your understanding of the warranty and membership system.

About warranty

Watches purchased from authorized Breitling retailers are covered by an international warranty that covers manufacturing defects for two years from the date of purchase.

If your watch is equipped with a manufacture movement, the warranty period is extended to five years, but you will need to have your watch water-resistant tested (free of charge) at an authorized Breitling service center every two years after purchase.

These conditions also apply to watches purchased overseas. International warranty cards cannot be replaced, so be careful not to lose them.

The warranty may not cover damage caused by dropping or impact, or by improper use. In addition, scratches on the exterior caused by dropping or contact are not covered by the warranty.

In addition, if you receive maintenance through after-sales service, you will be given a one-year repair warranty.

安心のアフターサービス

Breitling offers several after-sales service options.

The "Maintenance Service" menu includes maintenance on the exterior, movement, and any malfunctions. For quartz watches, battery replacement is also available.

An "overhaul" is a service that adds replacement of worn-out parts to the maintenance service, and also includes exterior finishing.

In addition, there is also a "limited repair" service available, which includes installing parts, cleaning bracelets, and exterior finishing. Limited repairs do not include warranties on the movement or water resistance.

Special prices for Club Breitling members

Club Breitling is a free club that you can join if you purchase a watch from an authorized retailer in Japan.

As a Club Breitling member, you will receive special member prices for overhauls, maintenance services, limited repairs, and technical fees.

Another benefit is that there are programs available to support the purchase of watches at authorized dealers, such as allowing you to trade in your current watch if you want to purchase a new one.

There are also various other benefits available, such as receiving member magazines and email newsletters, and being invited to events for members.

If the item is severely damaged or has special features, it will be sent to Switzerland.

If the watch is severely damaged or corroded, or if a special model is being ordered, maintenance will be carried out in Switzerland rather than in Japan.

The same applies to maintenance of antique watches, or watches for which parts cannot be obtained, or watches with broken links that secure the bracelet.

When performing maintenance in Switzerland, an individual estimate is provided, and the duration and cost of the maintenance will vary depending on the condition and model of the watch. Please note that if you cancel the maintenance after receiving the estimate, you will be required to pay a cancellation fee.

Use the pickup service

Breitling overhauls and maintenance are accepted at authorized dealers nationwide and at Studio Breitling Tokyo/Osaka, but a "pick-up service" is also available for easier requests.

Applications can be made online 24 hours a day, and the items will be shipped using the special packaging kit provided. This convenient service eliminates the need to prepare shipping boxes and allows for collection requests.

If it is difficult to take the product directly to an authorized repair shop, use the pickup service.

Breitling service: Pick-up service

Pickup service process

You can apply for the pick-up service on the official website's "Pick-up Service" page. Please have a note with your request, the watch itself, and the international warranty ready.

After applying, a packing kit will be sent to you by standard mail within approximately 3 to 7 business days. Pack your watch according to the enclosed instructions and request collection by the designated delivery company.

The shipped watches are sent to Studio Breitling, an authorized maintenance and service center in Japan, where they are maintained and repaired.

If you request maintenance service or need a part replaced, remember that there is an estimated turnaround time of approximately 7-10 business days from the time your watch arrives.

Once the work is complete, the watch will be shipped, and when you receive it, you can pay the fee by cash on delivery. Payment can be made in cash or by credit card.

Cost and duration

The pickup service costs a flat rate of 800 yen (excluding tax) regardless of where you use it in Japan. When paying by cash on delivery, this will be charged together with the technical fees for maintenance and overhaul, and the cost of any parts replacement, as well as consumption tax.

The pickup service can also be used when requesting maintenance or repairs during the warranty period. In the case of free maintenance, the pickup service is free of charge.

Daily maintenance

Regular care will help your watch last longer. We will introduce the correct maintenance methods and how to set the time and calendar.

Adjusting the time and calendar

If you are only setting the time, it is important to make sure the mainspring is wound sufficiently. If the mainspring is not wound enough, the watch will stop even after you have set the time.

After turning the crown to wind the mainspring, pull it out two notches to set the hour and minute hands. Once you have set the time, push the crown back into its original position.

Furthermore, when setting the calendar, you cannot use the calendar's fast-forward mechanism if the hands are between 8 PM and 3 AM. Set the hands to any other time zone first.

Then, pull the crown out one notch and rotate it to advance the date on the calendar. Then, set the time and push the crown back in.

However, models equipped with a manufacture movement allow you to fast-forward the calendar at any time.

Care instructions

To remove dirt from the case or sweat from the back cover, wipe it with a soft, dry cloth. It is important to pay attention to the condition of the cloth and not to use a dirty or wet cloth.

Be sure to pay close attention to the storage location. Storing it in direct sunlight can cause the dial to discolor and the oil inside to dry out. Also, storing it in a hot and humid place can easily lead to rust.

It is also important to keep the watch away from magnets. Metal parts become magnetized, which can affect its accuracy. Try to keep the watch away from magnets on cell phones, computers, bags, etc.

Even if your watch is highly waterproof, it's best not to wear it while bathing. Soap and hot spring ingredients can accelerate deterioration of the gaskets, and dirt can cause rust.

Proper overhaul and care will ensure long-lasting use

Breitling has a support system in place for overhauls and maintenance. Use the pickup service to request repairs or maintenance.

In principle, repairs are free of charge if the watch is within the warranty period, and even if it is outside the warranty period, Club Breitling members can receive special pricing.

To ensure that your favorite pen lasts as long as possible, it's important to take good care of it on a daily basis.