What Is Watch Lubrication?
A mechanical watch is made up of hundreds of tiny components that work together with remarkable precision. To ensure these parts operate smoothly, specialized watch lubricants are carefully applied during servicing.
Over time, these lubricants naturally deteriorate due to age, friction, temperature changes, and continuous movement. Once the oils begin to dry out, the movement experiences increased resistance, leading to reduced accuracy and unnecessary wear.
Professional lubrication is one of the most important steps in maintaining the long-term health of a luxury mechanical watch.
Signs Your Watch May Need Lubrication
Many watch owners are unaware that their watch requires servicing until noticeable problems begin to appear.
Common warning signs include:
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The watch gains or loses time consistently.
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Reduced power reserve.
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Rough or stiff manual winding.
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Lower movement amplitude.
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Irregular timekeeping performance.
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Unusual mechanical resistance.
Even if a watch appears to function normally, deteriorated lubrication may already be causing internal wear.
What Happens During a Lubrication Service?
Proper lubrication involves much more than simply adding oil.
Professional watchmakers perform a complete servicing process that includes:
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Full movement disassembly
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Ultrasonic cleaning of every component
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Inspection for worn or damaged parts
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Application of specialized lubricants to designated contact points
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Movement reassembly
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Precision timing adjustment
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Functional testing
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Water resistance testing
Each section of the movement requires a specific type and amount of lubricant. Applying incorrect oils or excessive lubrication can negatively affect performance.
Why Different Oils Are Used
Modern mechanical watches require multiple specialized lubricants because different components operate under different conditions.
Professional watchmakers use various oils and greases for:
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High-speed gear pivots
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Escapement components
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Barrel arbor lubrication
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Keyless works
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Automatic winding systems
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Gaskets for water resistance
Selecting the correct lubricant is essential for minimizing friction and maximizing movement longevity.
How Often Should Lubrication Be Performed?
Most luxury watch manufacturers recommend a complete service every 3 to 5 years, depending on:
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Daily wearing habits
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Environmental conditions
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Water exposure
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Watch age
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Movement complexity
Regular servicing helps prevent expensive repairs by replacing aging lubricants before excessive wear develops.
Protect Your Investment
Luxury watches are designed to last for generations when properly maintained.
Routine lubrication and complete mechanical servicing help preserve:
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Timekeeping accuracy
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Smooth movement operation
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Water resistance
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Mechanical reliability
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Long-term value
Preventive maintenance is always more cost-effective than repairing worn or damaged movement components.
Our Professional Services
Hong Shing Watch Repair Centre provides professional watch repair and maintenance services for a wide range of luxury timepieces. Our experienced watchmakers are committed to delivering reliable workmanship and exceptional customer service.
Our Services
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Luxury Watch Repair
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Complete Mechanical Watch Overhaul
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Precision Timing Adjustment
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Water Resistance Testing
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Movement Cleaning & Lubrication
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Bracelet Refinishing
Address
#03-04, Ocean Financial Centre
10 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049315
Website
https://ptwatchservice.com/pages/contact
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