Patek Philippe watches are generally guaranteed to be repaired for life, and with proper maintenance, they can be used almost forever. We will explain the details of Patek Philippe overhauls and other maintenance procedures.
Maintenance and Repair
Patek Philippe offers maintenance and repair services for all models produced since the company was founded in 1839. Check out the maintenance tips below.
Use and care tips
It is recommended that quartz and mechanical watches be overhauled every 3 to 5 years, but in the case of quartz watches, the battery life is only 2 to 3 years, so you should consider changing the battery more frequently.
For manual winding watches, winding the mainspring every morning keeps the movement running smoothly.
If an automatic watch stops working because it has not been worn for a long time, it can be restarted by winding it up by turning the crown a few times.
Regarding the water resistance of your watch, which protects it from dust and moisture, we recommend having it tested once a year. This test is quick and easy to complete.
The need for an overhaul
An overhaul is the process of periodically disassembling and cleaning a watch, inspecting it, and repairing it. It is essential to keep the watch in good condition for as long as possible.
An overhaul involves disassembling all of the numerous mechanical parts, which is like a regular health check for a human being.
The internal condition of a watch cannot be determined in detail just by looking at it from the outside. Therefore, it is necessary to disassemble the watch body, check the internal condition, and then inspect, replace, clean, and adjust parts.
Overhauls are necessary maintenance for both quartz and mechanical watches, and should be done at least every five years to keep them in good condition.
All products are eligible for indefinite repair
Patek Philippe offers maintenance and repair services for all its products, regardless of their age.
However, watches made before 1978 will be restored in the restoration workshop at the company's Geneva headquarters.
In addition, Patek Philippe preserves old machine tools and tools, allowing it to restore past movements using the technology and know-how of the time.
Even watches made during the company's early days can be restored to their original state after restoration, which can take up to two years.
Service details and fees
Patek Philippe maintenance is primarily performed in two ways: quick service and full maintenance. We will explain the details of each.
"Quick Service" available at authorized dealers
Maintenance, which can be completed in a relatively short period of time, can be handled through quick service at approximately 380 authorized dealers worldwide.
Maintenance for quartz models is based on the quick service "battery service," which includes battery replacement, movement inspection, and water resistance inspection.
Quick service is also available for strap replacement and bracelet link adjustment, but if the necessary parts are not available, it may take some time to order them.
Other maintenance services that can be performed through quick service include checking for magnetic charges and accuracy.
For overhauls, "full maintenance"
Overhauls, which require numerous processes and advanced techniques, can be handled by selecting "full maintenance."
A full maintenance takes 6 to 12 weeks depending on the type of movement, and longer if a repair is required.
During a full maintenance, the movement is completely disassembled and all parts are inspected, cleaned, oiled and adjusted.
In addition to movements, they also clean, replace, and repair cases and seals. If your watch is waterproof, they will also carry out a water resistance test and, if desired, provide polishing services.
Overhaul costs depend on the complexity of the watch
The cost of a full maintenance overhaul varies depending on the complexity of the watch.
For watches made within the last 20 years that require only standard repairs, an authorized Patek Philippe service center or authorized retailer will provide you with a quick estimate, with more detailed costs available within five business days of your watch's arrival.
During an overhaul, some movement components and waterproof seals are always replaced. The hands, crown, mainspring, or electronics may be replaced if necessary.
Warranty and Service Center
Patek Philippe watches come with a warranty period, and it is important to make effective use of the international warranty to keep your watch in good condition.
International warranty is 2 years from the date of purchase
When you purchase a Patek Philippe watch, you are issued with an international warranty valid for two years from the date of purchase.
This international guarantee certifies that the watch you purchase has been manufactured, adjusted and tested to Patek Philippe's strict quality standards.
Free repair service is available at any Patek Philippe authorized service center worldwide for two years from the date of purchase.
The international warranty only covers natural failures that occur during normal use. Work on the exterior may incur a fee even during the warranty period.
45 Authorized Service Centers Worldwide
Patek Philippe has 45 authorized service centers in 32 countries around the world, mainly in major cities, where you can receive your Patek Philippe international warranty.
To receive the international warranty in Japan, bring your watch to the Patek Philippe Japan Service Center in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, or to an authorized retailer.
At each service center, highly skilled watch repair technicians carry out repairs and maintenance in accordance with strict quality standards.
Get genuine service
Patek Philippe overhauls are carried out under what is called a full maintenance, and can be performed on any watch, regardless of its age.
To keep your watch in good condition for as long as possible, it's important to have it regularly serviced, including overhauls.
