How To Get A Watch To Start Ticking Again

Change the battery

One of the most common reasons why a watch stops ticking is a dead or dying battery. Fortunately, replacing the battery is a relatively simple and straightforward process that can be done at home or by taking the watch to a professional. Here’s how you can change the battery in your watch:

Gather the necessary tools: To change the battery, you will need a small screwdriver, a new battery of the correct size, and a soft cloth or watchmakers case knife to open the watch.
Prepare your workspace: Find a clean and well-lit area where you can comfortably work on your watch. It’s also a good idea to place a soft cloth on the surface to prevent any scratches or damage to the watch.
Open the watch case: Carefully remove the back cover of the watch using a screwdriver or case knife. Be gentle to avoid scratching the case or damaging any internal components.
Remove the old battery: Locate the battery inside the watch and carefully lift it out using a pair of tweezers or a small screwdriver. Take note of the battery type and size so that you can replace it with the correct one.
Insert the new battery: Place the new battery in the same position as the old one, making sure that it is properly aligned. Use the tweezers or a screwdriver to secure it in place if necessary.
Close the watch case: Gently press the back cover back onto the watch, ensuring that it is aligned correctly. Use a screwdriver to tighten any screws or clips that hold the case together.
Test the watch: Once the battery is replaced, test the watch to ensure that it is ticking properly. If it still does not work, try winding the watch manually or consider seeking professional help.

Changing the battery is a quick and easy solution to get your watch ticking again. However, it’s important to remember that not all watches have easily replaceable batteries, and some may require specialized tools or professional assistance. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with changing the battery yourself, it is always a good idea to consult a professional watchmaker to avoid any damage to your watch.

Wind the watch manually

If your watch is not ticking, it could be due to a lack of power in its mainspring. Some watches, especially mechanical and automatic models, rely on manual winding to start the ticking motion. Here’s how you can manually wind your watch:

Identify the winding mechanism: Look for a small crown or knob on the side of your watch. This is typically the winding mechanism that you will use to manually wind the watch.
Unscrew the crown: If the crown is screwed down, gently twist it counterclockwise until it is loose. This will allow you to wind the watch.
Wind the watch: Use your fingers to turn the crown in a clockwise direction. Be careful not to overwind the watch, as this can cause damage to the movement. Stop winding once you feel resistance or when the crown no longer turns.
Screw the crown back: If the crown was initially screwed down, gently press it back in and twist it clockwise to secure it in place.
Test the watch: After manually winding the watch, give it a few gentle shakes or swings to kick-start the movement. If the watch starts ticking, it means that the lack of power was the issue.

It’s important to note that not all watches can be manually wound. Some watches, like quartz or battery-powered models, do not have a manual winding feature and rely solely on the battery for power. Additionally, some automatic watches can be wound but also have the option to be powered by the movement of your wrist. If manual winding does not start your watch ticking or it is not appropriate for your watch type, consider exploring other troubleshooting methods or seeking professional help.

Check if the second hand is stuck

If your watch is not ticking, it’s worth checking if the second hand is stuck. A stuck second hand can indicate a potential issue with the movement or an obstruction preventing the smooth movement of the hands. Here’s how you can check if the second hand is stuck:

Observe the second hand: Pay close attention to the second hand as it moves. If it appears to be frozen or not moving smoothly, there may be an issue.
Look for obstructions: Inspect the watch face and the area surrounding the hands for any visible obstructions. These obstructions can include dust, debris, or even a loose strap or bracelet that is interfering with the movement of the hands.
Gently tap the watch: Sometimes, a gentle tap on the side of the watch can dislodge any stuck components or move the second hand back into its correct position. Be careful not to apply too much force, as it can cause additional damage.
Manually adjust the hands: If you notice that the minute or hour hand is touching or interfering with the second hand, you can try to carefully reposition them. Use your fingers or a small tool like a toothpick, being cautious not to damage the delicate mechanisms.
Professional assistance: If the second hand remains stuck or you are unsure about how to proceed, it is best to take your watch to a professional watchmaker. They have the skills and tools necessary to diagnose and repair any issues with the movement.

Checking if the second hand is stuck is a simple troubleshooting step that can help identify potential issues with the movement of your watch. If the second hand appears stuck or is not moving smoothly, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance rather than attempting to fix it yourself. A professional watchmaker will have the expertise to resolve the problem and ensure that your watch keeps accurate time.

Clean the movement

If your watch is not ticking or is running irregularly, dirt, dust, or moisture may have infiltrated the movement, hindering its proper functioning. Cleaning the movement can help resolve these issues and restore your watch’s ticking motion. Here’s how you can clean the movement:

Prepare the workspace: Find a clean and well-lit area to work on your watch. It’s important to have a soft cloth or watchmakers mat to protect the watch from scratches or damage during the cleaning process.
Open the watch case: Carefully remove the back cover of the watch using a screwdriver or a case knife. Take extra care not to damage the case or any internal components.
Remove the movement: Once the case is open, carefully lift out the movement from the watch. Be mindful of any delicate parts and keep track of their positioning for reassembly later.
Clean the movement: Use a small, soft brush or compressed air to gently remove any dust or dirt buildup from the movement. Pay special attention to the gears, springs, and other intricate parts that may be obstructed or affected by debris.
Remove moisture: If moisture has entered the watch, use a hairdryer on a low, cool setting or place the movement in a desiccant or silica gel packet to absorb the moisture. Ensure that the movement is completely dry before proceeding.
Reassemble the watch: Carefully place the clean and dry movement back into the watch case, ensuring that it is properly aligned. Secure the back cover using a screwdriver or by following the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific watch model.
Test the watch: Once reassembled, test the watch to see if it starts ticking properly. If it still does not tick or if you encounter any difficulties during the cleaning process, it’s advisable to seek professional help.

Cleaning the movement is a delicate process that requires precision and proper handling. If you are uncertain about your skills or feel uncomfortable performing the cleaning yourself, it’s best to entrust the task to a professional watchmaker. They have the expertise and tools necessary to clean the movement effectively and ensure the optimal performance of your watch.

Replace a broken spring

If your watch is not ticking or the movement feels weak, it’s possible that a broken or damaged mainspring is causing the issue. The mainspring is responsible for powering the watch’s movement and if it’s broken, it needs to be replaced. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to replace a broken spring:

Identify the broken spring: Open the watch case carefully and locate the mainspring. It’s a long, coiled metal strip that stores mechanical energy.
Remove the old spring: To remove the broken spring, you may need to disassemble the movement. This can vary depending on the watch model, so it’s recommended to consult a professional watchmaker for this intricate process.
Obtain a replacement spring: Purchase a new mainspring that matches the specifications of your watch. It’s crucial to have the correct size and type for optimal performance.
Install the new spring: With the movement disassembled, carefully insert the new spring into its designated place. Ensure that it is properly aligned and properly tensioned.
Reassemble the movement: Once the new spring is in place, carefully reassemble the movement following the correct sequence of components. Take your time and be cautious of any delicate parts.
Close the watch case: After reassembling the movement, close the watch case, ensuring it is aligned properly. Secure it using screws or as per the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific watch model.
Test the watch: After replacing the broken spring, wind the watch manually or give it a gentle shake to start the ticking motion. If it starts ticking and the movement feels stronger, the spring replacement was successful.

Replacing a broken mainspring is a complex task that requires technical expertise and knowledge of the specific watch model. It’s highly recommended to seek the assistance of a professional watchmaker to ensure proper installation and prevent damage to the movement. They have the experience and tools necessary to handle delicate watch components and perform the replacement with precision.

Repair or replace damaged gears

If your watch is not ticking or the movement feels sluggish, it’s possible that the gears within the movement are damaged or worn out. Gears play a crucial role in transmitting power and ensuring the proper functioning of the watch. Here’s what you can do to repair or replace damaged gears:

Consult a professional watchmaker: Gears are intricate components that require technical expertise to repair or replace. It’s recommended to take your watch to a professional watchmaker who can assess the damage and provide appropriate solutions.
Diagnose the issue: The watchmaker will carefully examine the movement to identify the specific gears that are damaged or worn out. They may use specialized tools or magnification devices to inspect the gears more closely.
Repair the damaged gears: If the damage to the gears is minimal, it may be possible to repair them. This typically involves precise adjustments or replacement of individual teeth or parts of the gears.
Replace the damaged gears: In more severe cases where the gears are extensively damaged or worn out, they may need to be replaced entirely. The watchmaker will source the appropriate replacement gears that match the specifications of your watch.
Reassemble the movement: Once the necessary repairs or replacements have been made, the watchmaker will carefully reassemble the movement, ensuring that all components, including the gears, are properly aligned and functioning smoothly.
Test the watch: After the gear repair or replacement, the watchmaker will test the watch to ensure that it is ticking properly and the movement is functioning as expected. They may make further adjustments if necessary.

Repairing or replacing damaged gears is a complex task that requires expertise and specialized tools. It’s crucial to entrust this job to a professional watchmaker who has the knowledge and experience to handle such delicate repairs. Attempting to repair the gears yourself can lead to further damage and compromise the overall functioning of your watch.

Lubricate the movement

Lubricating the movement of a watch is essential for ensuring smooth operation and minimizing wear and tear on the delicate components. Over time, the lubrication in the watch may dry out or break down, leading to increased friction and decreased accuracy. Here’s how you can lubricate the movement:

Consult a professional watchmaker: Lubricating a watch movement requires expertise and knowledge of the specific lubricants suitable for each part. It’s best to seek the assistance of a professional watchmaker who has experience in watch maintenance and lubrication.
Disassemble the movement: The watchmaker will carefully disassemble the movement to gain access to the different components that require lubrication. They will identify the key areas, such as the jewels and gears, where lubrication is necessary.
Clean the parts: Before applying new lubricant, the watchmaker will clean the parts using specialized solvents or cleaning solutions to remove any dirt or residue. This step ensures that the new lubricant can adhere properly and provide optimal performance.
Apply the lubricant: With the movement parts clean and dry, the watchmaker will apply the appropriate lubricant to the designated areas. Different parts may require different types or viscosities of lubricants to ensure proper lubrication without excessive friction or buildup.
Reassemble the movement: After applying the lubricant, the watchmaker will carefully reassemble the movement, ensuring that each part is properly aligned and in its correct position. They may make minor adjustments to ensure smooth operation.
Test the watch: Once the movement is fully reassembled, the watchmaker will test the watch to ensure that it is ticking accurately and smoothly. They will observe the movement for any signs of excessive friction or any other issues that may require further adjustment.

Lubricating the movement is a critical maintenance task that should be performed by a professional watchmaker. Using the wrong lubricants or applying them incorrectly can lead to complications and damage to the movement. Regular servicing and lubrication of the watch will help prolong its lifespan and maintain its accuracy over time.

Adjust the balance wheel

The balance wheel is a vital component of a mechanical watch that oscillates back and forth, regulating the timekeeping accuracy. If your watch is running fast or slow, adjusting the balance wheel can help correct the timing. However, it’s important to note that adjusting the balance wheel requires precision and expertise. Here’s what you need to know:

Consult a professional watchmaker: Adjusting the balance wheel should be done by a professional watchmaker who has the necessary tools and knowledge. They will analyze the watch’s performance and determine the appropriate adjustment.
Assess the watch’s timing: The watchmaker will evaluate the timekeeping performance by comparing it to a reliable time source. They will note if the watch is running fast, slow, or has irregular timing.
Identify the balance wheel: The watchmaker will locate the balance wheel, which is typically found near the escapement. It’s a weighted wheel that oscillates back and forth, controlling the watch’s timekeeping.
Adjust the balance wheel: Using specialized tools, the watchmaker will make precise adjustments to the balance wheel. This can include changing the position of the regulator pins or adjusting the weights on the balance wheel itself.
Test the watch’s timing: After making the necessary adjustments, the watchmaker will observe the watch’s performance. They will analyze the timing accuracy and check if the watch is now running at the desired rate.
Fine-tune if necessary: If the watch is still not keeping accurate time, the watchmaker may need to make further adjustments. This iterative process ensures that the balance wheel is perfectly calibrated for optimal timekeeping.
Reassemble the watch: Once the adjustments are complete, the watchmaker will carefully reassemble the watch, ensuring that all components are properly aligned and functioning correctly.
Perform final tests: The watchmaker will perform a final series of tests to confirm that the watch is now keeping accurate time. They will observe the movement and timing accuracy in various positions and conditions.

Adjusting the balance wheel is a delicate procedure that requires knowledge, experience, and specialized tools. It’s crucial to seek the assistance of a professional watchmaker to ensure the precision adjustment needed for optimal timekeeping. Attempting to adjust the balance wheel without the necessary expertise can lead to further complications and damage to the movement.

Take the watch to a professional

When all troubleshooting attempts fail or if you are not comfortable performing repairs on your watch yourself, it is best to take the watch to a professional watchmaker. A professional watchmaker has the expertise, experience, and specialized tools required to diagnose issues and perform necessary repairs. Here’s why you should consider taking your watch to a professional:

Professional watchmakers undergo training and gain extensive knowledge of watch mechanisms, allowing them to accurately diagnose issues and provide appropriate solutions. They are familiar with different watch models and can provide specific and tailored repairs.
Watchmakers have access to specialized tools and equipment that are necessary for intricate repairs. They can disassemble and reassemble the watch components with precision, ensuring that all parts are properly aligned and functioning optimally.
Professional watchmakers have access to a wide range of genuine watch parts from reputable suppliers. If your watch needs a replacement part, they can source and install it properly, ensuring the integrity and longevity of your timepiece.
If your watch holds sentimental or monetary value, it is crucial to have it serviced and repaired by a professional. They ensure that the watch is handled correctly and that any repairs or modifications do not compromise its authenticity or value.
Many professional watchmakers offer warranties or guarantees on the services they provide. By entrusting your watch to a professional, you can have peace of mind knowing that any work performed on your watch is covered by their service guarantee.
Taking your watch to a professional on a regular basis for routine maintenance and servicing can help prevent potential issues and ensure that your watch continues to run smoothly. Regular inspections and lubrication can extend the lifespan of your watch.
A professional watchmaker can also offer expert advice on proper care and maintenance of your watch. They can guide you on best practices to keep your watch in optimal condition and answer any questions you may have about its functionality.

When dealing with something as intricate and valuable as a watch, it is always best to rely on the expertise of a professional watchmaker. They have the knowledge, skill, and resources to properly diagnose and repair any issues, ensuring that your watch is in the best possible hands.