This elegant Blancpain automatic watch arrived in our workshop for a complete service after the owner reported several irregularities in the movement, including poor indexing, an unstable power reserve, and a daily deviation far above normal tolerance. Because of these symptoms, we immediately began a full diagnostic.
For clients discovering our process, you can learn more in our FULL SERVICE OVERVIEW.
To provide a clear overview, here are the main stages of the intervention.
Diagnostic
When we received the watch, several issues quickly became evident:
- Incorrect indexing noted on the technical sheet
- A complete inspection required to confirm the cause
- Significant variations between positions during timing-machine tests
As a result, we confirmed that the watch needed a complete service
Work Performed
Our watchmaker carried out the following operations:
✔ Complete disassembly of the movement
Every component was carefully separated to access the internal parts.
✔ Ultrasonic cleaning
All mechanical parts were thoroughly cleaned to remove wear residues, oxidized oils, and micro-particles.
✔ Replacement of oils and precise lubrication
Lubrication applied according to the critical points of the movement, following the brand’s specifications.
✔ Inspection of crown, dial, hands, and pushers
No aesthetic damage was detected; the watch was in excellent external condition overall.
✔ Reassembly and fine adjustment
Once reassembled, several precision adjustments were performed.
Results After Service
Final testing on the timing machine shows:
- Significantly improved stability in all positions
- Consistent and healthy rate variation
- Correct and uniform amplitude
The watch has regained its optimal performance, with accuracy fully aligned with the standards expected from a Blancpain automatic.
Possible Causes of the Issues Encountered
The irregularities observed may stem from several common factors:
- Natural wear of the oils (after 4–6 years, they dry out and lose effectiveness).
- Everyday micro-shocks, even if no external marks are visible.
- Magnetization caused by common objects (computer, phone, magnetic bags, speakers, etc.).
- Dust or moisture infiltration if the watch is no longer perfectly water-resistant.
- Lack of regular maintenance, leading to excessive friction between components.
These conditions are enough to cause: irregular timekeeping, low amplitude, positional deviation, and poor indexing.
How to Protect the Watch After the Service
To preserve the movement’s performance, we recommend:
✔ Reduce exposure to magnetic sources.
Magnets from bags, speakers, laptops, phones, or wireless chargers can affect the regulating system.
✔ Handle the watch carefully to avoid shocks.
Even light impacts may disrupt the movement’s precision.
✔ Schedule an annual water-resistance test.
This is especially important if the watch is worn daily or exposed to water frequently.
✔ Plan a full service every four to six years.
Regular servicing prevents oil degradation and protects the movement from premature wear.
Result
After the service, this Blancpain now runs with renewed precision and smoothness. Its performance is fully restored, offering the accuracy and reliability expected from a high-end Swiss automatic watch. We remain available for any Blancpain maintenance or automatic-watch service in Geneva.
