Question about seal replacement

[vintagewaferthin]

I have a 1999 Tag Heuer F1 that I just got the battery changed on. I brought the watch down to Central Watch in GTC(so far, i've been very happy with their service). After placing a new battery in, they told me that it would be a good idea for me to have all of the seals replaced with fresh, new ones.

Now, this watch was pretty much completely rebuilt in 2012 by Tag themselves. It received a new service case, and obviously new seals at the time. My question is this: after four years of pretty consistent use from me, is it time to have the seals replaced, or should their life expectancy stretch for a few more years(I never submerge the watch, mind you)? Before I hand it over to Central Watch to have this done, I just want to make sure it is really something that is necessary in order to safely wear the watch without the worry of water getting in somehow. The last thing I would want to do is hurt this watch.

Thanks!

[vintagewaferthin]

Anybody?

[jctrolex]

If the watch was rebuilt by Tag 4 years ago and you never submerge the watch I don't see the reason to replace the seals. The recommended service interval for an older Omega or Rolex is 5-7 years so I think Tag would be similar. I would leave it for a few more years.

[kunlun]

You can have the seals checked for free at a place like wempe

[vintagewaferthin]

Originally Posted by jctrolex

If the watch was rebuilt by Tag 4 years ago and you never submerge the watch I don't see the reason to replace the seals. The recommended service interval for an older Omega or Rolex is 5-7 years so I think Tag would be similar. I would leave it for a few more years.

I do occasionally hike and run with the watch, but other than that, it doesn't see anything rougher. Was worried about being caught out in the rain and having the seals go on me.

[themast]

Originally Posted by vintagewaferthin

I do occasionally hike and run with the watch, but other than that, it doesn't see anything rougher. Was worried about being caught out in the rain and having the seals go on me.

Occasional water splash should not be a concern. As others have said, you may want to have it pressure checked. That at least will tell you if tha watch is still water proof.

[77T]

The best question to ask when such a comment is made by a watchmaker is this: "Are you speaking in general terms, or do you see one or more of the seals has perished?" You can also go get a second opinion.

4 years of general wear shouldn't have caused a failure, but a pressure test is the only way to know for sure.

[vintagewaferthin]

Originally Posted by 77T

The best question to ask when such a comment is made by a watchmaker is this: "Are you speaking in general terms, or do you see one or more of the seals has perished?" You can also go get a second opinion.

4 years of general wear shouldn't have caused a failure, but a pressure test is the only way to know for sure.

Didn't think to ask that at the moment, but now I sure wish I did. I will definitely get it pressure tested to be sure.