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FAQ

General Questions

All my watches are built using a combination of genuine OEM parts and high-quality, non-OEM components. Every part is carefully tested in advance before purchasing more parts, to ensure durability, performance, and overall quality. While I aim to use genuine parts wherever possible, factors like cost, availability, and supply restrictions may occasionally require the use of reliable aftermarket alternatives.

All of my watch movements used are genuine Seiko movements, sourced directly from their official suppliers.

Yes! Just head over to the Custom Watch page, and use the online configurator to choose your individual components.

All of my watches are carefully built, modified, and repaired by hand in my studio located at the back of my home in County Laois, Ireland. As a one-person operation, I personally handle every aspect of the process to ensure each piece meets my standards of craftsmanship and quality.

I primarily use Seiko mechanical movements — specifically the NH34, NH35, NH36, and NH38. These are well-known for their reliability, affordability, and excellent customization potential, making them ideal for building durable, high-quality watches. Recently, I’ve also begun incorporating the Seiko VH31 quartz movement. It offers the smooth sweeping second hand often associated with automatic watches, but with the accuracy, low maintenance, and cost-effectiveness of quartz technology.

No, we are not. Laois Watch Works is an independent entity and is not affiliated with Seiko, Citizen, Rolex, or any other watch manufacturer. While some of the components I use may bear the branding of well-known watch companies, these are merely genuine aftermarket parts and may be used alongside non-genuine components. My work is not endorsed, sponsored, or approved by any watch brand. References to specific brands or models are for descriptive and informational purposes only.

I am an independent watch builder and modder, and any modifications or alterations made by me may void the original manufacturer’s warranty. I are not responsible for warranty claims or issues related to the original manufacturer’s products or components. While I take great pride in the quality of my builds, I cannot be held liable for any damages, losses, or complications resulting from the use or modification of any of these watches.

Yes. I offer in-house engraving services using state-of-the-art laser technology. This allows me to customize text or image engravings on dials, case backs, bracelets, crowns, and even leather straps.

My watches have a 3ATM water resistance rating as a rule, which means they can withstand light splashes and brief contact with water, such as during handwashing or getting caught in the rain. However, they are not suitable for swimming, showering, or submersion in water.

To preserve your watch’s water resistance:

Avoid using or pulling out the crown when the watch is wet.
Never expose the watch to prolonged running water, like from a tap.
Wipe off any moisture, sweat, or dirt after wearing.
Have the water resistance checked periodically, as the seals can degrade over time.

Orders

If you’re ordering a custom-built watch, and all parts are in stock, it will typically take 2–5 days to assemble and prepare your watch for shipping.

Preassembled watches, budget watches, and individual parts are usually available immediately, and ship within 1-2 days.

Yes, you can make amendments to your order — including updates to your details — but these must be made as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours of placing your order. Please note that for custom builds, no changes can be accepted after 2 days of you placing the order.

Yes, you can cancel your order within 24 hours of placing it. After this period, your order may already be in process or shipped out, and cancellations will no longer be possible. However, for all items, excluding custom builds, you can still return them in accordance with EU consumer laws once received.

Delivery & Shipping

No, we currently only ship within the European Union due to the complexities and costs associated with international shipping outside of the EU.

All our items are held in-house and shipped directly from Laois, in the Republic of Ireland. We either use An Post, or a reliable courier service, to ensure your order arrives safely and promptly.

Each watch is carefully assembled, which takes between 2 to 5 working days, depending on part availability and order complexity. Once completed, shipping within the EU typically takes 7 to 10 working days. In total, you can expect delivery within approximately 15 working days. If you’re based in Ireland, collection is also available as an option.

Refunds, Returns & Exchanges

Please visit my Refund and Return Policy page for more information

Yes, you can return any of our items within 30 days of receipt, provided it is unused, undamaged, and in its original packaging with all tags and labels intact.
Please note that customized watches and customized parts are not eligible for return or exchange.
For more details, please refer to our Refund and Return Policy.