Frequently Asked Questions

2. WATCH BANDS FAQS:
3. My watch measures 17mm between the lugs, but there are not too many choices, can I use 16mm instead?
4. Are the watch bands in the stainless steel category truly stainless steel?
5. Are spring bars and watch band pins provided with the watch bands?
6. How do I know what size watch band I need?
7. What if the leather watch band I want has the wrong color buckle?
8. How do I change my watch band?
10. WATCH REPAIR FAQS
11. How long does it take to complete the work?
12. Are the prices at Total watch repair competitive?
13. Do you provide a guarantee on watch repairs?
14. Why should you trust us with your watch?
15. How do I pay for my repair?
17. BATTERY FAQ'S
18. How does it work?
19. Are the batteries guaranteed?
20. How long will it take?
21. Is my watch still water-resistant?
22. What if my watch doesn't work after you replace the battery?
23. Why us?
24. Why are my batteries dying faster now than when the watch was new?
25. Can I track my repair?

Answers...

1. 
   

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2. WATCH BANDS FAQS:

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3. My watch measures 17mm between the lugs, but there are not too many choices, can I use 16mm instead?

   It is not a good idea to ever go size smaller than what is needed, but going to a next size up (18mm in this case) is OK; since leather is soft and will shrink a little with time anyway.

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4. Are the watch bands in the stainless steel category truly stainless steel?

   All stainless steel watch bands, including Rolex-style watch bands are solid stainless steel. Dual tone bracelets are available in stainless steel and either 14K or 18K gold.

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5. Are spring bars and watch band pins provided with the watch bands?

   Generally, spring bars (watch band pins) are provided with watch bands sold on this site. However, watch band manufacturers do not provide them with their watch bands, so spring bar inclusion is subject to availability. They are readily available from many jewelers or you might try using the original pins.

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6. How do I know what size watch band I need?

   Measure the distance between the lugs (where your watch band connects to the watch) on your watch. If you do not have a ruler or caliper with metric units, refer to our watchband size chart.
   
   Remember that there are two sizes to consider:
   1) Width of the watch band; and
   2) Length of the watch band.

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7. What if the leather watch band I want has the wrong color buckle?

   We can change the buckle for you. If the strap you want has a gold-tone buckle, it can be replaced with a silver buckle and vice versa. When viewing an available item, immediately below the "Add to Cart" button, you will see text reading "substitute silver buckle" (or vice versa) followed by a check box. Simply click in this checkbox and the instructions will carry through to our order fulfillment department. If the watch band is already in your cart, just write your buckle color request in the "Order Notes" section on the "Review and Submit your Order" page at checkout.

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8. How do I change my watch band?

   There are two ways to change your watch band:
   Stop by your local jeweler or watch shop and get your watch band changed there. (It can be quick, easy, and inexpensive.)
   or
   Change it yourself.
   If you opt for the first method, there is no need to read further. If you're going to try it yourself, here are some suggestions:
   
   Using a special Spring Bar Tool, gently depress end of the old strap spring bar and remove it from the retaining hole where strap is connected to the case, as shown in the illustration.
   If they are not already positioned there, insert the new spring bars into your new strap.
   Insert one end of the spring bar into a retaining hole in the watch case and while depressing it, position the opposite end of the spring bar into the other retaining hole.
   Take care to avoid scratching watch case and strap.

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10. WATCH REPAIR FAQS

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11. How long does it take to complete the work?

    upon giving us the 'go ahead' The average repair time for a quartz watch overhaul is 1 to 2 weeks.
    
    The average watch repair time for a modern mechanical automatic or modern mechanical chronograph watch overhaul is 2 to 3 weeks. The average repair time for a vintage mechanical or vintage chronograph watch overhaul is 2 to 3 weeks. If this seems a bit longer than you anticipated, please understand that we approach our watch repair quite differently from most watch repair sites. Unlike most sites that are essentially just cleaning your watch, at TOTAL WATCH REPAIR, it means we are replacing parts as well. This meticulous process means it simply takes a bit longer but the results are well worth it. After reassembly, we then test the watch for a few days. We just do not take short cuts in the repair process because we know how important it is to you.

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12. Are the prices at Total watch repair competitive?

    Yes!
    
    If you compare the absolutely thorough manner with which we approach watch servicing with replacing all necessary parts from the manufacturer, we are extremely competitive. There is a reason we have the expression, 'you get what you pay for.

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13. Do you provide a guarantee on watch repairs?

    Total Watch repair provides a 1 year 'no fuss' guarantee on our watch repairs. Why would we make such a bold promise. We want to make it crystal clear to our current and potential customers that we will stand behind our work.

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14. Why should you trust us with your watch?

    - We are family owned and have been in the same location for over 30 years.
    - We will give you the ACTUAL names and phone numbers of former customers, so that you can call them to VERIFY our quality service?
    - our watchmakers are educated, experienced, trained and have been with our company for over 25 years.
    - We have a dedicated business toll-free number to call? When you call you speak directly with a watchmaker and no one else?
    - we have a posted written warranty for any and all service?
    - We have insurance and physical security measures in place to safe-guard against the loss or theft of your watch at our facility?
    - Our website is "safe" from hackers. Every page of the website that involves the transmission of sensitive customer information secure-server hosted (https), utilizing a corporate, high-assurance SSL for the electronic transmission of ANY personal or credit-card information?

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15. How do I pay for my repair?

    When service is completed, with a credit card, check or money order.
    once we receive your watch we will call you with an estimate, if approved. You may pay via:
    *A credit card phoned in to us at 877-805-9988.
    *Mailing payment in the form of a check* or money order.

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17. BATTERY FAQ'S

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18. How does it work?

    1. Fill out a simple online battery request for box.
    2. You will receive a FREE POSTAGE PAID BOX complete with cushioned watch shipping materials.
    3. Insert your watches and put it in your mailbox.
    4. We will contact you upon receipt and process your battery change within 2-4 business days. You are charged only for the battery service and return shipping.
    5. Your watch returns to you in working order!

    * Insured shipping is available at additional cost.

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19. Are the batteries guaranteed?

    We change so many watch batteries that our entire supply is replenished on a regular basis. This means that we use only the freshest batteries with very little exhausted shelf life. You will only be billed for watches that are functioning at the time they are shipped out. You are not charged for service or the battery for watches that do not work after being serviced. A typical watch battery should last about one year. If the watch stops working before that time, it is likely a sign that there is a problem with the circuitry of the watch rather than the battery. We will offer a credit for a free battery replacement in the future for those that stop within 30 days of our service. All such credits must be authorized by our customer service department within 30 days of the original service.

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20. How long will it take?

    We will complete your battery change within 2-4 business days of receipt.

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21. Is my watch still water-resistant?

    All water resistant watches are made so by a series of gaskets and seals that lock water out of the watch movement. The effectiveness of that system can be compromised by general wear and tear and, of course, by opening the watch to change the battery. Water testing is recommended for any watch you plan to submerge. It is a specialized air pressure chamber that tells you if air is passing into the watch. You will not be charged for the test if your watch does not pass. A watch with a failed test may still function fine, but should not be submerged in the future. Watches passing the pressure tested are warrantied water resistant for 120 days.  Please contact our service department for warranty repair information at info@totalwatchrepair.com  Please be advised that water resistant watches must be used properly to avoid damage. Watches can be damaged by water if the crown is left open or pushers are compressed underwater.

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22. What if my watch doesn't work after you replace the battery?

    Watches are complex devices and sometimes the problem is more significant than a dead battery. If we put a fresh battery in your watch and it does not function, we will do everything we can to get it running without doing any major repairs. We will not charge any additional service fee for cleaning the contacts, rotating the wheels, removing of any visible dirt or obstructions, etc. If we find that a major repair is necessary, we do not charge you for the battery or service.

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23. Why us?

    Total Watch Repair is a highly specialized business focusing on watch battery service and watch repair. Our business was established in 1979. We also have the most up to date equipment, material, and technical backrounds to repair all brands and types of watches. Inexperienced, untrained hands attempting to change a battery can damage or destroy a watch. We are continuously approached by customers and other stores with cracked crystals, broken stems, water damage, scratched cases - all costly repairs caused by improper battery service. Let us do it right for you!

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24. Why are my batteries dying faster now than when the watch was new?

    All the parts of a new watch are functioning at their optimum level, reducing the draw on the battery. Normal wear and tear on the mechanism and circuit cause resistance and drain the battery more quickly. A watch battery should last around 1 year. If your batteries are depleting in less than a year, it is a sign that the watch needs additional repair.

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25. Can I track my repair?

    Absolutely. You will receive a form with your FREE box that will have your order number.  You can send an email inquiry to info@totalwatchrepair.com and receive an answer within 1 business day.

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