01Check the Battery

  • The first thing you should do when your watch stops working is to check the battery. A dead or low battery is often the culprit for a watch that has stopped ticking.
  • To check the battery, you will need to open the back of the watch using a small screwdriver or a case opener tool. Once the back is removed, locate the battery and check its voltage. If the voltage is below the recommended level, replace the battery with a new one.
  • It's important to use the correct type and size of battery for your watch. Refer to the watch's manual or consult a professional for the appropriate battery replacement.
  • After replacing the battery, carefully put the back of the watch back in place and ensure it is securely closed.

02Check the Crown and Stem

  • If your watch is not responding to the battery replacement, the next step is to check the crown and stem.
  • The crown is the small dial on the side of the watch that is used to set the time. It is connected to the stem, which is responsible for winding the watch and setting other functions.
  • Sometimes, the crown and stem can become loose or misaligned, causing issues with the watch's functionality. To fix this, gently pull the crown out to its outermost position and then push it back in firmly. This can help realign the crown and stem and restore the watch's functionality.
  • If the crown and stem are damaged or broken, it may be necessary to replace them. In such cases, it is recommended to take your watch to a professional watchmaker for repair.

03Clean the Watch

  • Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate inside the watch over time, affecting its performance. Cleaning the watch can sometimes resolve issues with a watch that has stopped working.
  • To clean the watch, use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe the exterior and remove any surface dirt. Be careful not to apply excessive pressure or use abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the watch's finish.
  • For a deeper clean, you can use a watch cleaning solution or warm soapy water. Dip a soft brush or toothbrush in the cleaning solution and gently scrub the case, bracelet, and other parts of the watch. Rinse with clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth.
  • It's important to note that not all watches are water-resistant. If your watch is not water-resistant, avoid submerging it in water and limit the use of liquids during the cleaning process. If you're unsure about your watch's water resistance, consult the watch's manual or a professional watchmaker.
  • After cleaning the watch, allow it to dry completely before attempting to use or reassemble it.

04Watch Overhaul

  • If none of the above steps have resolved the issue, it may be necessary to perform a watch overhaul.
  • A watch overhaul involves disassembling the watch, cleaning each part individually, inspecting for any damaged or worn-out components, replacing faulty parts, lubricating the movement, and reassembling the watch.
  • Watch overhauls are complex procedures and require specialized knowledge and tools. It is recommended to seek the services of a professional watchmaker or watch repair technician for a watch overhaul.
  • During the watch overhaul, the watchmaker will also check for any other underlying issues that may be causing the watch to stop working and address them accordingly.
  • Once the watch has undergone a complete overhaul, it should be back to working order and may require less frequent maintenance in the future.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can troubleshoot and fix a watch that has stopped working. Start by checking the battery and replacing it if necessary. Then, inspect the crown and stem for any issues and realign them if needed. Cleaning the watch can also help resolve performance problems. If all else fails, consider seeking the services of a professional watchmaker for a thorough watch overhaul. Remember to consult the watch's manual or professional assistance for specific guidance on your particular watch model.

MethodsDetails
Check the BatteryMake sure the battery is not dead or low. Replace it if needed.
Check the Crown and StemEnsure the crown and stem are aligned and functioning properly.
Clean the WatchRemove dirt and debris from the watch to improve its performance.
Watch OverhaulConsider a watch overhaul if other steps don't fix the issue.
watch repair
fixing watches
troubleshooting
watch maintenance