Hi Lykkers! There’s an unmistakable moment of disappointment when you glance at your wrist and notice that your once-reliable watch has come to a silent halt.

Whether it holds sentimental value as a family heirloom or is a recent investment meant to mark a special occasion, a stopped watch can throw off your rhythm and leave you feeling slightly adrift.

Before rushing to replace it or assuming the worst, it's worth taking a step back to understand what might be causing the issue. Identifying the root of the problem is the first step toward bringing your timepiece back to life!

1. Check the Battery (For Quartz Watches)

One of the most frequent causes for a stopped quartz watch is a dead battery. Most batteries last between one to two years, depending on the model and how often it's worn. If the watch has been sitting unused or if the second hand has been skipping multiple seconds at once, it’s likely time for a replacement.

2. Wind the Watch (For Mechanical Watches)

Mechanical watches rely on regular movement or manual winding to stay active. Manual-wind watches need to be wound by hand using the crown, while automatic watches wind themselves through daily wear. If a mechanical watch hasn’t been worn in a while, it might simply need a full wind or a few hours of wear to start running again.

3. Check the Crown

The crown, used to set the time and date, sometimes gets pulled out by accident. When it's not fully pushed in, the watch won’t run. Make sure the crown is securely in place to allow the movement to function properly.

4. Keep an Eye Out for Magnetic Fields

Magnetic exposure is a hidden culprit, especially with mechanical watches. Common items like smartphones, laptops, or magnetic clasps can interfere with the movement. If magnetization is suspected, it’s best to keep the watch away from such sources and have it checked and demagnetized by a professional if needed.

5. Look for Signs of Physical Damage

Even minor impacts can cause internal components to shift or break. A quick visual check for cracks, scratches, or damage to the crystal or case can help. However, even without visible signs, internal damage could still be present, and a watchmaker’s inspection may be needed.

6. Check for Moisture Inside

Water resistance doesn’t always mean waterproof. Exposure to water, especially with the crown open or not fully sealed, can let moisture inside. Fog under the crystal or a hazy dial are signs that water may have entered. Moisture should be dealt with as soon as possible to avoid long-term damage from corrosion.

7. Listen for Movement

Hold the watch close to your ear and listen for a soft ticking sound. If the movement is ticking but the hands aren’t moving, the hands might be stuck or misaligned. This issue can prevent them from turning freely and may require a technician to adjust them.

8. Think About the Service History

Watches, like any precision tool, need maintenance. Over time, oils dry up and dust builds inside the movement, slowing things down. If it’s been five years or more since the last service, that alone could be the issue. Regular servicing keeps everything running smoothly and can prevent more serious problems.

9. Let a Professional Take a Look

If none of the above steps restore the watch, it’s time to turn to a professional. A skilled watchmaker has the tools and expertise to open the case safely, inspect the internal mechanisms, and diagnose deeper problems. Whether it’s a simple repair or a full overhaul, expert attention ensures the watch gets proper care.

A stopped watch doesn’t always mean the end of the road. Most causes are minor and can be resolved with a little care or professional help. Taking the time to assess what’s wrong can not only save a favorite timepiece but also extend its life for years to come. With the right attention, every watch can get back to doing what it does best—keeping time with style and precision!