Swiss Elegance and Everyday Reliability: Servicing the Tudor Style
At W.E. Clark Watch Repairs, we see a vast range of horological engineering, from high-complication vintage pieces to modern daily drivers. Among the most frequent visitors to our benches are timepieces from Tudor. While the brand is often celebrated for its “tool watch” heritage, the Tudor Style represents a more refined, classic aesthetic—a watch designed for versatility and understated elegance.
Even a watch designed for daily wear requires expert intervention when its mechanical components begin to show signs of age. We recently serviced a Tudor Style that perfectly highlights the importance of preventative maintenance in high-quality automatic movements.
The Heart of the Matter: The ETA 2671
The Tudor Style (particularly the smaller 28mm and 34mm variants) is often powered by the ETA 2671. This is a compact, high-frequency movement known for its reliability. However, because it is a smaller calibre, the components are scaled down, meaning that lubrication and part integrity are absolutely critical to its performance.
The client brought this piece to us noting that the watch was no longer holding its power reserve and there was a noticeable “rattle” or a heavy sensation when the watch moved on the wrist.
Identifying the Wear: Rotor Play and Power Delivery
Upon disassembly, our BHI-accredited watchmaker identified two primary issues that were affecting the watch’s performance:
- Rotor Bearing Wear: There was significant “play” (excessive movement) in the oscillating weight (the rotor). When a rotor bearing wears down, the weight can begin to wobble, sometimes even making contact with the movement bridges or the case back. This friction prevents the watch from winding efficiently as you move.
- The Barrel Complete: To ensure the watch meets its original factory specifications for power delivery, the mainspring and its housing (the barrel) required attention. Over time, the internal walls of the barrel can wear, or the mainspring can lose its shape and weaken, leading to a lower power reserve and inconsistent timekeeping.
The Repair Process: Precision and Parts
To restore this Tudor Style to its peak condition, we performed a full movement overhaul. This process is exhaustive and involves several key stages:
- Rotor Bearing Replacement: We installed a brand-new rotor bearing to eliminate the play, ensuring the automatic winding system spins with maximum efficiency.
- New Barrel Complete: Rather than just replacing the spring, we installed a “barrel complete.” This guarantees that the gear train receives perfectly consistent torque, which is the foundation of accurate timekeeping.
- Ultrasonic Cleaning & Lubrication: The movement was fully stripped and cleaned in our specialized multi-stage watch cleaning machine. It was then painstakingly reassembled and lubricated using specific Moebius oils.
Results and Testing
After the mechanical restoration, the Tudor Style was timed and regulated in multiple positions to ensure it met the high standards expected of a Swiss-made timepiece. It also underwent a vacuum and pressure test to ensure the case seals were intact.
The result is a watch that feels responsive on the wrist, with an automatic winding system that functions effortlessly.
Watchmaker’s Tip
If you notice your watch making a “clunking” or “scraping” sound when you shake your wrist, or if it seems to stop shortly after you take it off, it is likely that the rotor bearing or automatic winding mechanism requires attention. Ignoring “play” in the rotor can lead to metal shavings entering the movement which can cause significant damage to various parts.
At W.E. Clark Watch Repairs, we specialise in the service and restoration of Tudor timepieces our skilled watchmakers are here to help.
Ready to service your Tudor? Take advantage of our Royal Mail Special Delivery FREEPOST service. Your timepiece is fully insured for up to £20,000 throughout its journey, providing you with total peace of mind from the moment it leaves your hands.