Skip to content
Jewelry & Watch Hospital

Watch repair

Crown and stem replacement.

The crown is how you wind and set a watch, and it's also part of how the case is sealed. A crown that's loose, won't screw down, or has come off with its stem needs attention before water or dust gets in.

When you might need it.

  • The crown has come off, with or without the stem
  • The crown won't screw down or pull out
  • Winding or setting feels gritty, stiff, or does nothing

What’s involved.

  1. Diagnosis

    We check whether the crown, the stem, the tube, or the movement's setting parts are at fault.

  2. Replacement

    The crown, stem, or tube is replaced with a part that fits the watch and movement.

  3. Sealing

    Crown gaskets are checked or replaced so the case can close properly.

Preliminary pricing.

Your preliminary price range is free and comes from your photos. The final price is confirmed after we inspect the piece in hand, and no work starts until you approve it.

What affects the price

  • Which parts are needed
  • The watch and movement
  • Whether the tube needs replacing
  • Parts availability

If you’re mailing it in

If the crown or stem came off, send it with the watch.

Start with photos. Don’t ship anything until we’ve agreed on shipping and insurance with you.

Get a free estimate

Common questions.

Will you use original parts?

We tell you before the work what part we'd use and where it comes from, so you can decide.

Can I wear the watch with a loose crown?

Better not, especially near water. A loose crown can let moisture in.

Send photos. Get a price. Decide from there.

The estimate is free and takes a few minutes. You’re under no obligation to go ahead.

Get a free estimate