Seiko Watch Service Intervals and Prices

Although many Seiko watch owners do not service their watches, and some even think of Seikos as being bulletproof, the official service interval for Seiko watches is 2-3 years.

Seiko’s official recommended service schedule:

In Seiko’s own words:

“Periodic inspection and adjustment by disassembly and cleaning (overhaul) is recommended approximately once every 2 to 3 years in order to maintain optimal performance of the watch for a longtime.” -Seiko

A detailed explanation:

“The power transmission gear of the movement of this watch constantly receives force. To ensure that this mechanism works properly all the time, washing parts, changing oil, adjusting accuracy, checking functions and replacing consumable parts on a regular basis are important. The first overhaul after the purchase of your watch is particularly important for preserving long-time use of your watch. According to use conditions, the oil retaining condition of your watch mechanical parts may deteriorate, abrasion of the parts due to contamination of oil may advance or delay the time significantly, or the watch itself may stop.” -Seiko

And again with a Caution box:

“Depending on the environment where a diver’s watch is used, its inner parts or movement as well as its case or band may be affected. We recommend that you have your watch overhauled regularly once every 2 or 3 years.” -Seiko

Who should perform the overhaul?

“Inspection and adjustment by disassembly and cleaning (overhaul) should be performed by the retailer from whom the watch was purchased, and who specifies “SEIKO GENUINE PARTS.” At this time, also request replacement of the gasket and the spring bar.” -Seiko

Since they allow so many of their watches to be sold on the grey market, it is interesting that Seiko says the service should be performed by the retailer that sold the watch. In most cases, the retailer in which you purchased your Seiko will not have the ability to service your watch. Does Macy’s have an in-house watchmaker? Therefore, taking the watch back to the retailer will likely just meant they will send it in for service on your behalf.

What is included when sending a watch to Seiko for service?

When you send your watch to the Seiko Service Center in USA, your watch will receive the following attention:

• Complete service of the watch movement.
• Grand Seiko movement overhaul includes “Light Polish.” (Grand Seiko Complete Service).
• Fix or replace necessary movement parts. Replacement of gaskets and water resistance testing.
• Replacement of either battery, ion cell, or rechargeable battery (depending on quartz caliber).
• Necessary lubrication.
• Timing adjustments and accuracy testing to caliber specifications.
• Ultrasonic cleaning of case and band.

How much is Seiko service?

As of April 2020, the cost of getting your Seiko timepiece serviced by Seiko USA is as follows:

Calibers that cannot be serviced in USA:

There are a few movements that must be sent back to the factory in Japan for service or repair. This takes at least 5-8 weeks on top of shipping times and the time it takes to prepare the repair estimate. The calibers include:

• 1BXX
• 4SXX
• 5R86
• 7B24
• 7B25
• 7R87
• 9S25
• 9R86
• 9R96
• 9T82
• S760
• S771
• 6SXX
• All Credor watches
• All Galante watches

How long is the Seiko warranty?

Seiko’s limited manufacturer’s warranty or guarantee period is 3 years. At the time of this post, it is very difficult to find any warranty information on Seiko’s official site. The service guarantee is 12 months.

Additional Resources:

• Seiko Service Center repair information form
• Browse Seiko caliber listings

Have you sent your Seiko watch to the factory for service or repair? Talk about your experience and cost in the comments below…