Our Methodology
How we approach every piece that comes in
Each watch that arrives at Mainspell is treated as an individual case. The service chosen provides a framework, but the actual work is shaped by what the movement and case reveal once they are opened and examined.
We use calibre-matched lubricants at every friction point, observe timing across positions over multiple days, and document condition before and after service. For older pieces, we aim to preserve what is worth preserving rather than restore everything to a uniform new-looking state.
The three services below are structured progressively — the inspection can stand alone or lead into a full service, and the heritage refurbishment is available as a complete programme for watches that need the most considered attention.
Inspect first
Know before you commit
Right lubricants
Per calibre, per point
Extended timing
Days, not minutes
Your approval
At every decision point
Service 01
Movement Inspection & Report
An opening, cleaning of accessible surfaces, and a written assessment of a watch's condition without committing to a full service. Useful when you have inherited a piece and want to understand its state first. You receive clear notes and options, with no obligation to proceed.
- Movement observed running under magnification
- Condition of dial, hands, crystal and case noted
- Written report provided — yours to keep
- Options presented with no pressure to proceed
- Cost deducted if you proceed to a full service
What happens, step by step
- 1. Watch photographed and logged on arrival
- 2. Case opened, movement surfaces cleaned and examined
- 3. Running condition observed and timed
- 4. Written report prepared and sent to you
- 5. Options discussed — no automatic next step
Price
฿3,400
Approx. 5–7 working days
Service 02
Self-Winding Service
A full clean and lubrication of automatic movements, with attention to the winding rotor and reversing wheels. We check power reserve and timekeeping across positions before returning the watch. A sensible interval for daily-worn automatics.
- Full movement disassembly and ultrasonic cleaning
- Winding rotor and reversing wheels inspected and lubricated
- Mainspring assessed, replaced if required (quoted separately)
- Power reserve tested across multiple winds
- Positional timing observed over several days
- Service notes provided on return
Process overview
- 1. Intake, photography, pre-service timing baseline recorded
- 2. Movement fully disassembled; all parts cleaned
- 3. Reassembly with calibre-appropriate lubricants at each point
- 4. Run on timing machine across six positions over several days
- 5. Returned with written service summary
Price
฿5,900
Approx. 2–3 weeks
Service 03
Heritage Refurbishment
A careful, multi-stage refurbishment for older watches, balancing function with preservation of original character. Includes movement work, surface refinishing on request, and sourcing of period parts where they can be found. Carried out collaboratively, with your approval at each step.
- Full movement service as above, plus age-appropriate considerations
- Surface refinishing on case and bracelet — only if requested
- Period-correct part sourcing (crown, crystal, hands, strap)
- Dial and hand assessment — conservation-minded approach
- Collaborative decision-making at each stage
- Final detailed report covering all work carried out
Typical programme
- 1. Initial inspection and scope discussion with you
- 2. Written programme and quote agreed before anything starts
- 3. Movement work carried out; interim check with you if issues arise
- 4. Parts sourced or surface work confirmed with your sign-off
- 5. Timing observation and final review before return
Starting price
฿10,900
4–8 weeks depending on scope
Decision Guide
Which service is right for your watch?
| Feature | Inspection ฿3,400 |
Self-Winding ฿5,900 |
Heritage from ฿10,900 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written condition report | |||
| Full movement disassembly & clean | |||
| Fresh lubrication throughout | |||
| Multi-day timing observation | |||
| Surface refinishing (on request) | |||
| Period parts sourcing | |||
| Collaborative stage-by-stage approval |
Inspection is best for...
Inherited or unfamiliar watches where you want honest information before deciding on service. Also useful before purchasing a used watch.
Self-Winding is best for...
Daily-worn automatics that are due their regular service interval — typically every 4–6 years for modern movements.
Heritage is best for...
Older pieces — family heirlooms, collector watches, or watches where original character matters as much as function.
Shared Standards
What every service includes by default
Photographic intake record
The watch is photographed on all sides before anything is touched. This record is yours.
Secure workshop storage
Watches not being actively worked on are kept in a locked cabinet during and outside working hours.
Written quote before work
Nothing is done until you have seen and agreed to a written figure. Verbal estimates are always confirmed in writing.
Replaced parts returned
Any original component replaced is bagged and returned with the watch. You retain all original parts.
Direct repairer contact
Messages and calls go to the person working on your watch. Questions get technical answers, not a holding reply.
Courier submissions accepted
Watches from outside Chonburi can be sent by courier. Full handling guidance provided on enquiry.
Pricing Summary
Clear prices, no hidden extras
All prices include VAT and are in Thai Baht. Any additional work (replacement parts, additional case work) is quoted separately and confirmed in writing before proceeding.
Movement Inspection
฿3,400
5–7 working days
- Written condition report
- No obligation to proceed
- Fee credited to service
Self-Winding Service
฿5,900
2–3 weeks
- Full movement service
- Rotor & reversing wheels
- Multi-day timing check
Heritage Refurbishment
From ฿10,900
4–8 weeks
- Full movement work
- Period part sourcing
- Stage-by-stage approval
Not sure which service fits?
Send a brief description of your watch and what you have noticed. We will read it and suggest the most appropriate starting point — there is no obligation, and we will not push you toward a larger scope than the watch needs.
Send an Enquiry