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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. 

1. Fun Facts About Rolex: Precision and Prestige

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.

2. Fun Facts About Citizen: Japanese Mastery

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.

3. Fun Facts About Tag Heuer: Racing Heritage

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.

4. Fun Facts About Seiko: Innovation and Diversity

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.

5. Fun Facts About Movado: Modern Artistry

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.

Finishing Up

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.

FAQs

  1. Where to find watch repair services near me?

    If you require a simple watch repair such as a watch band replacement or new batteries, find a Hudson’s Bay watch repair location near you here, where our knowledgeable staff can assist you. For more intricate watch repairs, please contact us directly.

  2. How long do watch repair services take? 
  3. 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 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 a maintenance service

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.

Repair the little issues sooner

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.

Pull Out the Crown

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.

Remove the Battery

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.

Stop the Chronograph Feature

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.