February 12, 2026

Professional repair and service of Antique Pocket Watches

Owning a vintage or antique pocket watch is like holding a piece of history in your hand. These finely crafted timepieces were built with precision, and with proper care, they can continue to run for generations. My workshop specializes in the professional repair and restoration of vintage and antique pocket watches.

I provide expert service for some of the most respected American watchmakers, including Elgin, Hamilton, Waltham, Illinois, and South Bend, as well as many other fine makers. Whether your pocket watch requires a complete service, or extensive repairs I approach each project with the utmost care.

Service-Repair of Hamilton 922 23 Jewel Pocket Watch

Our Pocket Watch Repair Services Include:

Complete disassembly and cleaning – Every movement is carefully taken apart, ultrasonically cleaned, and inspected.
Lubrication and reassembly – High-grade synthetic watch oils are applied to reduce wear.
Replacement of worn parts – Period-correct parts are sourced and installed when necessary, including balance staffs, jewels, and mainsprings.
Timing and regulation – Watches are adjusted in multiple positions to achieve the best possible accuracy.
Case cleaning and preservation – Cases are gently cleaned, with polishing or restoration available upon request.

Why Choose us for your Pocket Watch Repair?

Repairing a pocket watch requires not only technical expertise but also the expertise to make or find parts. I have extensive experience in repair all types of antique pocket watches. (See the list below for examples).

Getting Started

If you would like to initiate the repair of your vintage timepiece contact me directly, or visit getting started.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of pocket watches do you repair?

I repair a wide variety of vintage and antique pocket watches — American railroad-grade, fusee movements, hunter-case or open-face, lever-set, stem-wind, and hand-wound models from makers such as Elgin, Waltham, Hamilton, South Bend, Illinois, and more. Even rare or obscure calibers are often serviceable.

My pocket watch hasn’t run in decades. Can it still be repaired?

Almost always — many pocket watches that have sat dormant for years respond well to a full overhaul. A complete disassembly, cleaning, lubrication, and adjustment will often restore function. If parts are worn and need repair or replacement, I can in most cases source the parts. I can also make balance staffs and repair pivots in my shop.

Will restoring an antique pocket watch harm its value?

On the contrary. Proper mechanical restoration—using original or carefully crafted replacement parts, preserving existing finishes, and avoiding unnecessary polishing—improves function and longevity while maintaining collector value. Cosmetic changes are only made when requested.

How often should a vintage pocket watch be serviced?

For pocket watches that are worn regularly, every 7-10 years is ideal, more often if the watch is used in moist and dusty conditions.

Hamilton Railway Special with 992b, Melemine coated brass dial

Antique Split Seconds Pocket Chronograph Repair & Service

Common Issues in Vintage & Antique Pocket Watches — Why Servicing Is Essential

Dried or hardened oil / old lubricant breakdown: Lubricants degrade over time — oil becomes thick or gummy and can stop the train or cause uneven wear. Cleaning and re-oiling restore smooth function.
Worn pivots, jewels, or bearings: Over decades, pivots and balance staff ends wear down, and jewels crack or loosen — causing poor amplitude, erratic timekeeping, or “sticking.” Replacement or re-pivoting restores reliability.
Dirt, dust, or corrosion inside your movement: Exposure to moisture or dust—even minimal—can cause rust, grit, and damage to gear teeth, wheels, and ratchet parts. Full disassembly and cleaning prevent permanent damage.
Lack of regular maintenance / long service interval: Without regular service, wear accumulates slowly—leading to more serious and costly repairs later. Regular maintenance prolongs lifespan and maintains value.