As of May 2023, servicing intervals for any mechanical Patek Philippe timepiece both sold and serviced after this date, can now be enjoyed on the wrist for an extended period before requiring its routine service. The manufacture now recommends servicing intervals of between every 8-10 years, given improvements to the oils used to lubricate the highest friction points of the mechanism within your watch. It is the refreshing of these oils, which ensures your watch is running as accurately and efficiently as possible, to the standard of the Patek Philippe Seal. 

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1. Leaving your timepiece with us

When leaving your Patek Philippe watch with us, you will be invited into our dedicated Patek Philippe Room where one of our Patek Philippe Specialists will sit down with you and assist with the booking in of your treasured timepiece, whether it is in need of a routine service or more significant repair. They will ensure that all the details of your watch are documented by asking a routine series of questions that will help the watchmakers at the service centre to diagnose and establish the best way to care for your watch. The majority of timepieces requiring a routine service will be booked in using an Immediate Estimate form, while vintage or watches which have suffered from accidental damage will require to be sent for a Formal Estimate.

To discuss or book a service please contact us.

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2. Reception & Archive Research

Upon arrival at the service centre, each timepiece begins its journey with careful documentation and historical research. The first step is to establish your watch’s provenance by consulting the manufacturer’s archives a detailed record of every Patek Philippe timepiece ever sold has been kept by the manufacture, dating back to 1839. By reviewing case numbers and movement references, we are able to confirm the watch’s age, trace any previous servicing, and ensure complete historical accuracy. This meticulous research preserves the integrity of the timepiece and allows our work to be carried out with absolute precision and respect for its heritage.

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3. Dismantling & Reassembly of the Case and Movement

Even a relatively simple mechanical watch can contain over 150 individual components. requiring exceptional care, concentration and technical expertise. Once dismantled, each component is carefully inspected, assessed and cleaned, allowing our watchmakers to identify the precise work required. Reassembly is an equally exacting process. Every component is cleaned, correctly lubricated and methodically refitted in the proper sequence. Throughout this stage, adjustments are made to ensure optimal performance. On completion, the movement is finely regulated to guarantee reliable accuracy and flawless operation.

4. Exterior Cleaning

Steps of service

A thorough yet delicate cleaning process removes any workshop residue and restores the case to a pristine condition. The exterior components (case/bracelet) are cleaned in an ultrasonic machine, gently refined and protected leaving the watch immaculate and ready for final finishing.

5. Case Polishing

Steps of service

Full case refinishing is available upon request. Each timepiece is assessed individually, as different metals and finishes require different techniques. Most watches receive a light polish to restore brightness while maintaining original character. Where appropriate, more comprehensive refinishing processes can be undertaken to revive the watch’s original brilliance. Even though an experienced polisher may be removing microns of material, it is not recommended to have your watch polished at every servicing opportunity/interval.

6. Re-casing

Steps of service

The case is carefully rebuilt, with the crystal, case back and crown expertly refitted. New seals are applied to ensure water resistance, and every detail is checked to meet exacting aesthetic and technical standards. In a controlled, dust-free environment, the fully serviced movement is reunited with the restored case. The rotor and crown are reassembled, moisture is removed, and the case is securely sealed, completing the technical restoration.

7. Quality Control

Steps of service

Before being returned to its owner, the watch undergoes a comprehensive final testing period of approximately two weeks. This ensures the timepiece meets the highest standards of performance, reliability and finishing. Reflecting the precision and craftsmanship invested throughout the servicing process.