In today’s world, there are a variety of watch brands that span a wide spectrum, each with its own interesting origin stories and creators. As a trusted watch repair and service company, we’ve had the opportunity to dive deep into the intricate workings and rich histories of some of the most esteemed watch brands.
If you’re curious about watches, join us on a journey through time and craftsmanship. Discover interesting facts about some of the prestigious watches we’ve had the pleasure of servicing, including, but not limited to, Rolex, Citizen, Tag Heuer, Seiko and Movado. Read on to learn more.
Rolex was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London. The iconic Rolex crown logo that you see today wasn’t introduced until 1925. Rolex is also known for its innovations, including the first waterproof wristwatch, the Rolex Oyster, introduced in 1926. Additionally, the Rolex Submariner, introduced in 1953, was the first watch to be water-resistant up to 100 meters, catering to the growing popularity of recreational diving.
Today, Rolex watches are designed for individuals who appreciate timeless elegance, precision engineering and the status that comes with owning a timepiece.
Citizen Watch Co., Ltd. was initially known as the Shokosha Watch Research Institute, and later adopted the name Citizen in 1930. It was founded by both Japanese and Swiss investors. Since then, Citizen has grown to become one of the world’s largest watchmakers, renowned for its innovation and precision in watchmaking technology.
Citizen is most widely renowned for its pioneering Eco-Drive technology, introduced in 1976, which converts any light into energy to power watches. Today, Eco-Drive technology continues to lead the watch marketplace as a beacon of innovation.Additionally, Citizen developed the Satellite Wave GPS series utilizing satellite signals to ensure precise timekeeping anywhere in the world, regardless of location.
To this day, Citizen watches cater to those who value innovative technology, eco-friendly features and reliable performance in their everyday timepieces.
Tag Heuer was founded in 1860 in Saint-Imier, Switzerland by Edouard Heuer under the name “Uhrenmanufaktur Heuer AG.” Over the years, Tag Heuer has become synonymous with and precision in watchmaking, especially known for its connections to sports timing and racing chronographs.
Tag Heuer has deep roots in motorsports, having been the first Swiss watchmaker to sponsor Formula 1 teams in the 1970s. The brand’s Monaco model claim to fame was when it was worn by Steve McQueen in the 1971 film Le Mans. Tag Heuer also developed the Tag Heuer Carrera, named after the famous Carrera Panamericana road race, and is celebrated for its accuracy and sporty design since its launch in 1963.
Today, Tag Heuer watches are designed for individuals who seek a blend of cutting-edge technology, sporty elegance and a strong connection to motorsports heritage.
Seiko was established in 1881 in Ginza, Tokyo, Japan. Founded by Kintaro Hattori, Seiko began as a watch and jewelry shop named “K. Hattori & Co.” It later evolved into the Seiko Corporation, a global powerhouse known for its innovation, precision and diverse range of timepieces, from quartz watches to high-end mechanical models.
Seiko introduced the world’s first quartz watch, the Seiko Astron, in 1969, revolutionizing the watch industry with accurate timekeeping. The brand is also known for its Spring Drive technology, combining mechanical and quartz precision. Seiko’s Grand Seiko line represents the pinnacle of Japanese watchmaking, emphasizing precision, durability, and elegance since its debut in 1960.
Presently, Seiko watches cater to individuals who appreciate a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship, advanced innovative technology and exceptional value in their timepieces.
Movado was founded in 1881 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. Founded by Achille Ditesheim, the company originally operated under the name “LAI Ditesheim & Freres SA.” Movado is celebrated for its modern design aesthetic and minimalist approach.
Movado is known for its minimalist Museum Watch, designed in 1947 by artist Nathan George Horwitt, featuring a single dot at 12 o’clock symbolizing the sun at high noon.
Additionally, Movado created the Movado Bold collection in 2010, modernizing the brand’s minimalist aesthetic with bold colors and distinctive designs, appealing to a younger audience.
Today, Movado watches are created for those who value modern design, minimalist aesthetics and sophisticated elegance in their timepieces.
Watch brands have a rich history spanning over decades. The heritage, innovation and craftsmanship that define these brands make exploring and reading about them truly fascinating.
Whether you own a Rolex, Citizen, Tag Heuer, Seiko, Movado or any other watch brand, we understand how much you treasure your timepieces. Trust us with their care and maintenance. In addition to repairing the watch brands mentioned in this blog post, we also offer a variety of watch repair services for all brands of watches. Our expert team is here and dedicated to ensure your watch keeps perfect time for generations to come.
The watch repair service timing depends on the complexity of the task. The more parts it requires, the more time it’ll take. Generally, we quote a turnaround time of 2-4 weeks, but more intricate services may require 4-6 weeks or more.
At our Hudson’s Bay store locations, simple watch repairs such as battery replacements and link removals are completed while you wait. Discover the exact timing for these watch repairs at the store locations. If you have a watch currently being repaired, you can track the status here.
Watches are personal; they are a reflection of an individual’s personality, much like the clothes we wear and the car we drive. However, watches are also an excelletnt way to commemorate a special occasion or to gift to someone important, as they will last a lifetime. Unlike a sweater that will eventually be forgotten in the back of a closet, a good quality watch can be worn for years, and even passed down to future generations.
With so many options and so much on the line, how to you choose the right watch to gift to someone else?
The type of watch movement you are looking for and your budget will be two of the most important factors to consider, as your budget will affect the types of watches you will be looking at and vice versa. There are 4 principal types of watches and several categories within each branch:
Mechanical and automatic watches offer timeless, classic design intended to last for decades. These investment timepieces do not require batteries, as movement (automatic) or winding (mechanical) keep them ticking, but they will require occasional watch movement service. Watches in this category typically start at about $1,000 for an entry level piece and can quickly go up to the tens of thousands and more.
Quartz watches are a very popular option. Battery powered and comparatively affordable measured against the other options, they come in many styles from many different brands, including popular fashion names and designer watch makers. While they don’t typically require much in the way of watch movement service, the batteries will need to be replaced every 2 or 3 years.
Similar Post: What You Need to Know about Watch Maintenance Services
Smart watches are also battery powered, in this case rechargeable, and offer sleek, modern design combined with a plethora of additional functionalities, based on type and brand.
Presumably, if you are purchasing a gift as extravagant as a new wristwatch, you know the person well. Personal preference will influence the type of timepieces you are looking at. Consider the person’s style and the kinds of accessories that they tend to wear. Some people lean toward classic, unobtrusive pieces, expressed by clean lines and understated elegance. These individuals would likely prefer simple functionality with basic details.
Other people may prefer a showier aesthetic, complete with intricate detail and standout features.
Are you buying a statement piece for someone who works daily in an office and enjoys luxury items, or are you purchasing a timepiece for someone who spends lots of time outdoors and is looking for rugged functionality? The use of the watch should factor into your decision.
In general, there are 6 types of watch style, although some categories may overlap and there are several sub categories within each:
Choose a watch based on intended wear and functionality, then refine your options to suit the style of the wearer. For example, a dive watch will include many practical features and solid design, but are available in a variety of styles that could appeal to a wide range of wearers.
The size of a watch is one of the most overlooked watch features, and we are not talking only about the watch band. Watches come in several standard diameters, ranging from 34mm all the way up to 46mm, and thicknesses from 5mm to 15mm. Bigger, thicker watches would best suit larger wrists, or someone who prefers a masculine, oversized look, where thinner, smaller diameter watches would be more appropriate for smaller wrists, or someone who desires a more classic look.
While the options may seem overwhelming at first, taking a moment to consider these factors will significantly reduce the field of options and help you find the perfect watch to gift to someone special. You could consider repairing a family heirloom watch or a cherished watch that was broken for someone special as a gift. To find a watch repair near me, please visit our locations.
Also Read: Things to Consider when Getting your Jewelry Chain Repaired
A luxury watch is something you should be proud of and a prized possession that you want to wear wherever you go. Hence, it is important to make sure that the treasured timepiece you buy is water resistant to avoid expensive watch repair Edmonton, and to know what to do when the worst happens.
The biggest clue that your watch has been compromised by water is condensation. If you look at your watch and find a fogginess or a few droplets of moisture inside, then this is a clear sign that it has been damaged by water.
There are lots of rumors and myths making the rounds for what you can do if your watch has been exposed to water. One of them is putting it on the radiator or placing it in a bag of uncooked rice for 6 to 10 hours. This heat will remove the moisture from the movement and cause the water inside the watch to dry faster and the rice will absorb moisture. However, we suggest you seek expert help, such as On Time Service Corp. who have the experience with watch repair in Edmonton to ensure that all parts of your watch are dry and free of corrosion. And if your watch had a water-resistant seal that failed, we can replace the seal to protect it against future moisture damage.
If water gets into your watch, the consequences can be devastating, including the cost of repair, as all important components, such as hands, movement, and dial can corrode, affecting its performance.
So, it is best to take precautions and guarantee that your watch is water resistant; small things, such as checking for any cracks or chips in the crystal, ensuring the back is firmly in place, and that the crown is properly screwed into place. These are all effective checks when it comes to taking care of your watch and keeping it from being vulnerable to moisture. As well, a careful pressure test will provide additional protection against water damage.
At On Time Service Corp, we offer an air pressure testing service which enables us to check that your watch is still water resistant. This can be done on the spot and takes around 10 minutes.
If any mishap happens and your watch does sustain water damage, then you’ll need to get assistance from professionals. They’ll expertly clean and dry every piece of your watch remove any particles which may have collected inside the watch, and repair all parts that have been damaged by moisture. Contact them for watch repair in Edmonton and any other area of Canada and save your watch from water damage.
Like any well-maintained car, your watch will also need occasional maintenance service. Do you wear a vintage watch, and are wondering how often it needs to be serviced? According to watch industry experts, you should have watch maintenance services done about every three to five years. In the case of watches, even the smallest damage can balloon to become more severe. Ultimately, your watch may become unusable, or you may need to spend much more on its repair. On-time Service Corp. offers you the best watch maintenance services in Winnipeg to keep your watch in working order. The need for watch repair depends on how frequently you wear that watch and how it is stored when it is off the wrist. Fine watches are like fine automobiles, which require maintenance and repair from time to time. This will help your watch to run for a longer time.
Luxury watches, such as Rolex or Patek Philippe, should be serviced within 4 to 5 years of purchase. Watch maintenance services in Winnipeg can help them retain their value and accuracy. Stay on top of watch maintenance to keep your watch in top condition. You can also prevent your watch from being damaged by taking care of it on a daily basis.
There are some simple tips you can follow to care for your watch and prevent it from being damaged:
These are just a few DIY ways you can prevent damage to your watches. Care for them carefully and have watch maintenance done every few years to ensure a long life for your precious timepieces.
Maybe it belonged to a loved one, maybe it has sentimental value, or perhaps it was a gift given in celebration of a special occasion; whatever the reason, we often form an emotional attachment to watches. And as we care for these pieces so much, we want them to look and function like new for as long as possible.
Watches are one of the few accessories that are worn daily, and that means that damage and wear are bound to occur. Damage to the face of your watch, in particular, may seem like a desperate situation. Thankfully, there are very few situations that are hopeless, if you have the right help. Whether you own a timepiece that has simply stopped keeping time and needs watch battery replacement, or your watch requires a complete overhaul, an experienced watchmaker can make it right.
The face of your watch is arguably the most important part of your watch, if you like telling time. Exposure and wear can cause the dial of your watch to fade, and accidents resulting in damage can happen. Watch dial repair services can refinish an existing dial, making the original dial look new, or in cases where it is required, replace the dial with a manufacturer’s replacement or closely matching option. Conversely, dial repair services are also your chance to take something old and give it a brand new face. Dials are available in custom colour options and in dozens of different finishes, textures, and treatments.
A broken face can often lead to damaged watch hands. However this type of impairment is almost always repairable when the repairs are undertaken by an experienced professional. A watchmaker can refinish the original hands or replace damaged hands with manufacturer or custom replacements. And just as there colour options for your watch dial, there are colour, size, and style options available for watch hands, if you are looking to change or update your timepiece.
Sometimes the damage from the face goes deeper than the surface. The mechanics that run your watch are intricately tied together and one small piece out of balance can throw the entire movement off. The answer may be as simple as a watch battery replacement for quartz watches, but other times you may require complete watch movement services to locate and resolve the problem. In either case, problems with watch movements should only be addressed by a professional watchmaker.
Watches have long been regarded as a luxury item. They can instantly add class to any outfit and make a statement about the wearer. Just as with any other luxury item, watch repair services are necessary to keep it in good working order.
If you don’t yet regularly wear a watch, what are you waiting for? While many of us can use our phones to tell time, watches are much more convenient, while making an impactful fashion statement. A quick glance at a watch is a much easier and inobtrusive way to check the time than pulling out a cell phone for a time check.
When you need watch repair services, not just any old shop will do; you need a place you can trust your treasure to with confidence. While finding the right repair shop can be a challenge, it is well worth the effort to find a place you can trust with your valuable possession.
If you have an expensive watch that you want to keep in pristine condition, having reliable watch repair services is essential. Watches need proper maintenance so that they are able to function properly for a long time.
While you may have many options for watch repair services, it is important to find a shop that you can trust with such a valuable possession. Look for a location with highly qualified experts who have been trained in repairing all kinds of watches. Another important thing to look for is the type of equipment they use for watch repair. Using old, out of date equipment in poor repair is a bad sign. Instead, look for a place that takes care of their equipment in the same way they will take care of your watch.
You will also want to make sure that the watch repair shop you choose services a variety of models. Some shops might have expertise in one area or another, so look for a shop that has worked on your specific type of watch before with good results. From changing the strap of a watch, replacing a battery or performing other minor repairs, look for watch repair services that deal with all elements of watch repair.
Another important thing to look for when choosing watch repair services is a shop that offers variety in watch parts and selection. Look for a place that has a wide range of watch bands. A different band can make a watch appear completely brand new and is a worthwhile investment.
When choosing watch repair services, ask questions and make sure you feel comfortable with the individual who will work on your watch. It is a valuable possession that should not be entrusted to just anyone, so find a shop with qualified experts and leave it in only the most trusted hands.
Many people wear their watches 365 days a year, keeping them on time for all the important moments in life. Watches come in all shapes and sizes and each person has their own preferred style. Whether you prefer an automatic mechanical watch, a quartz movement watch, a chronograph watch, or even a pocket watch, it is important to make time for watch maintenance and repair. Each type of watch has its own needs, depending on the type; however, there are a few common maintenance items that all watches require.
Over time, watches can become dirty, worn from wear and tear, and require some watch maintenance and repair to ensure optimal performance and a lasting life span.
It has been suggested that in order for a watch to run smoothly and at its best, it should be taken in to a jeweler or watch specialist for a watch maintenance and repair visit every three to five years.
During your service, the watch specialist will perform full diagnostics, reviewing all the features of your watch. Your watch will be expertly dismantled and each part will be cleaned, often using an ultrasonic bath for the larger components and manual washing for the most delicate pieces.
Once the watch has been diagnosed and cleaned, the watch specialist will reassemble your watch, and apply a lubricant to make sure that your watch is able to keep ticking away smoothly. After lubrication, the specialist will replace any seals that may require maintenance to improve weather resistance.
Finally, your favorite old watch will be quality checked to ensure that it is working like new again.
If your watch is not at the point where it is in need of a full maintenance, but you have noticed that the band is a bit worn, it is running a bit slow (or fast), or the battery has died, a quick trip to a local watch service shop can have it fixed up in no time. By taking your watch in to repair the minor issues, it can keep it running for the long term.
Scheduling time for watch maintenance and repairs allows you to keep your watch running for years to come and keeps your days running smoothly, so you can focus on what’s most important to you.
Is the time on your watch slowly starting to fall behind? If you’re finding yourself running late a little more often, thanks to a slow watch, it’s most likely time for a watch battery replacement. Thankfully, this is a pretty quick job, and a good jeweler should be able to get you up and running on time again, in less time than it takes you to pick up a coffee. But if you feel you need replacement watch cells too frequently,you can try these tips for how to extend the life of your watch’s battery. However if these fail, and you continue to experience quickly draining batteries, you may need to have the mechanics of your watch looked at.
If you have a large collection of watches or you do not frequently wear a particular watch, you can try pulling out the crown before you put the watch away. The watch will stop keeping time until you push the crown back in, which may help to extend the life of the battery. This must be done carefully, as the crown is fragile and can be costly to repair. It is also recommended that you push the crown back in every couple of months to ensure that the battery is still functioning.
You can take it one step further in helping to extend the lifespan of a watch battery by removing the battery when you are not using the watch. Depending on the brand of watch, this may be as simple as unscrewing the back plate and removing the battery. This is a delicate task and may not be recommended for every style of watch.
If your watch has a chronograph feature, stopping the chronograph may be enough to double the life expectancy of your watch’s battery. On most watches, this is done by simply pressing the upper button once. However, as watch models vary, you may need to check your instruction manual.
Depending on the watch, you should expect to get between 1 and up to 3 years out of a watch battery. If you are getting significantly less than that,there may be something mechanically wrong with your watch. There are a number of possible issues, ranging from a leaking battery to a defect with the circuitry. The only way to properly diagnose and repair the problem is to have the watch looked at by a professional.