A TAG Heuer Aquaracer Calibre S CAF7010 was sent to Ross Watch Repairs by post for a Mini Service. The Calibre S is one of TAG Heuer’s more unusual quartz movements, combining electronic timekeeping with a complex hand and calendar display that needs to be calibrated correctly after battery work or when the hands are out of alignment.
For this watch, the agreed work included a premium battery and reseal, internal calibration of the Calibre S mechanism, and a full polish of the case and bracelet. The workshop work was completed the same day in around one hour, and the complete postal job had a two-day turnaround.
Why the TAG Heuer Calibre S Is Different
The Calibre S is not a conventional quartz chronograph. It is an electro-mechanical movement that uses the main hands and two retrograde counters for both normal timekeeping and chronograph functions.
In normal watch mode, the central hands display the time while the lower retrograde counters are used for the calendar. In chronograph mode, the display changes and the same hands are used to show elapsed time. The Calibre S also incorporates a perpetual-calendar system designed to account for different month lengths and leap years.
That makes the movement clever, but it also means the setting and calibration procedure is more involved than on a normal quartz watch. After a battery change, the hands may need to be synchronised to their correct zero positions before the time and calendar can be set properly.
Calibre S Calibration and Hand Synchronisation
One of the main reasons owners struggle with Calibre S watches is that the hands are not simply adjusted in the same way as a standard three-hand quartz watch. The pushers and crown are used together to enter the calibration and setting modes, and each hand or retrograde display has to be aligned in the correct sequence.
At RWR we are familiar with the Calibre S setting procedure and can reset, calibrate and synchronise the hands as part of the service. That is particularly important after battery replacement, if the hands no longer return to their correct positions, or if the watch has previously been set incorrectly.
How the Calibre S Is Set and Calibrated
Before the time and calendar can be set correctly, the Calibre S first needs a reference point. All of the hands and displays must be synchronised back to their 12 o’clock / zero positions. This is the stage shown in our workshop video below.
Once every hand is aligned to its correct reference position, the watch can then be taken through the normal setting sequence for the time and calendar. If one hand is left out of position at the calibration stage, the display can remain out of sync even though the movement itself is running.
This is why Calibre S battery changes are not always as simple as fitting a new cell. Correct hand synchronisation is an important part of returning the watch to proper operation.
Watch the Calibre S calibration in our workshop
Premium Battery, Reseal and Internal Service
The customer chose our Mini Service, which on this watch included a premium battery, resealing, internal checks and Calibre S calibration.
Opening the watch also allows the movement, battery contact and internal condition to be inspected before the case is closed again.
After the new battery was fitted, the watch was resealed and the movement functions were checked again. Where suitable, pressure testing forms part of confirming the case integrity after opening.
Full Case and Bracelet Polish
The Mini Service also included a full polish of the stainless-steel case and bracelet. The watch arrived with visible surface marks on the bracelet and clasp from normal wear.
After refinishing, the brushed and polished surfaces were much cleaner and the watch had a noticeably fresher appearance.
Same-Day Calibre S Service, Two-Day Postal Turnaround
The technical work on this watch was completed the same day in around one hour. Because the customer had posted the watch to us, the complete job had a two-day turnaround.
This is one of the advantages of using a workshop that is already familiar with the Calibre S. The unusual hand synchronisation and calendar-setting system can make these watches difficult for repairers who rarely see them.
Turnaround on another Calibre S will depend on its condition and whether parts are required, so the one-hour workshop time and two-day postal turnaround described here relate specifically to this watch.
TAG Heuer Calibre S Repairs by Post Across the UK
This CAF7010 is a good example of the type of specialist TAG Heuer work we receive through our UK postal watch repair service. Customers do not need to be near one of our London branches to use RWR for a Calibre S battery service, calibration or assessment.
Postal repairs are sent to our Canary Wharf branch using Royal Mail Special Delivery. Include your name, phone number, email address, return address and details of the fault with the watch.
Ross Watch Repairs – Postal Repairs
Unit 4B, Cabot Place Shopping Centre
Canary Wharf
London E14 4QT
We assess the watch and confirm the repair options before chargeable work begins. You can also read more about our wider TAG Heuer watch repair service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the TAG Heuer Calibre S?
The Calibre S is an electro-mechanical TAG Heuer movement that combines quartz timekeeping with an unusual hand and retrograde display system. The central hands are used for both normal time display and chronograph functions, depending on the selected mode.
Why does a Calibre S need calibration after a battery change?
The movement stores reference positions for its hands and retrograde displays. After battery work or if the hands become misaligned, the watch may need to be put into its synchronisation mode so each display can be reset to the correct zero position before the time and calendar are set.
Can Ross Watch Repairs calibrate a TAG Heuer Calibre S?
Yes. We can assess Calibre S watches for battery replacement, resealing, hand synchronisation, calendar setting and other faults. Each watch is checked individually before the work is confirmed.
How quickly can a Calibre S Mini Service be completed?
The workshop work on this CAF7010 was completed in around one hour and the postal job had a two-day turnaround. Another watch may take longer if additional faults or parts are involved.
Can I send my TAG Heuer Calibre S by post?
Yes. We accept TAG Heuer repairs from across the UK. Send postal repairs to our Canary Wharf branch using Royal Mail Special Delivery and include your contact details, return address and a description of the work required.
Get a Free TAG Heuer Calibre S Assessment
If your Calibre S needs a battery, the hands are no longer aligned, the calendar is set incorrectly or the watch needs servicing and polishing, contact Ross Watch Repairs for a free assessment.
Ross Watch Repairs is an independent watch repair company and is not affiliated with, authorised by or endorsed by TAG Heuer.
