Method before material.
Each service at Ebauche Studio follows the same underlying principle: understand the piece and the client's intentions before deciding how to work. This applies whether the project is an assembly from sourced components, a case that has lost its original surface character, or a movement waiting to be fitted into its case.
The studio's approach does not change based on price point. A movement installation at RM 520 receives the same attention to hand height and dial alignment as the casing stage of a bespoke assembly project. The work is consistent because the method is fixed, not because the project is large.
Bespoke Watch Assembly
An assembly service for clients who have sourced their own components from various suppliers and wish to bring them together into a finished, working timepiece. This service is collaborative by design — the client remains informed and involved at each stage of the process.
The service covers initial consultation, component review and compatibility assessment, movement preparation and service if required, casing, dial and hands fitting, and final regulation. Projects in this category typically take 6–12 weeks depending on component condition and scope.
What is included:
- Written scope and component review
- Movement preparation and basic service
- Dial, hands, and crown fitting
- Crystal and gasket seating
- Post-assembly running and rate check
- Written handover notes
Process stages:
Case Refinishing & Refit
Restoration of case surfaces — brushed, polished, or combination finishes — with attention to the original geometry of the case. Most cases carry a specific arrangement of brushed and polished surfaces, and restoring them correctly requires knowing where each finish type belongs and how the transition lines were originally cut.
The service includes reseating of crystals, gaskets, and crowns where they have aged or been compromised. Typical duration is 3–5 weeks.
Included in service:
- Case surface assessment and finish mapping
- Brushing, polishing, or combined finish restoration
- Crystal replacement (client-supplied or discussed)
- Gasket replacement for water resistance
- Crown reseating or thread inspection
Movement Installation & Casing
Precise fitting of a movement into a case — including dial alignment, hand setting, crown fitment, and hands height calibration. This is offered as a standalone service for clients who have already assembled or sourced their components separately and need the final fitting stage carried out correctly.
Hand height is one of the most common points of failure in amateur assembly work — incorrect clearance between hands and dial, or between the seconds hand and the crystal, affects both function and appearance. This service addresses that stage specifically. Typical duration is 1–2 weeks.
Service covers:
- Movement and case compatibility check
- Dial seating and alignment
- Hands height calibration and pressing
- Crown and stem fitment
- Movement seating and caseback closing
- Basic function check post-installation
Choosing the right service for your situation.
| Feature | Assembly | Refinishing | Installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for new builds from components | |||
| Surface and case restoration | |||
| Movement fitting only | |||
| Consultation included | |||
| Typical duration | 6–12 weeks | 3–5 weeks | 1–2 weeks |
| Starting price | RM 2,950 | RM 780 | RM 520 |
Not sure which applies to your situation?
Describe your piece and what you are hoping to achieve. We will let you know which service fits or whether a combination makes more sense.
Send an EnquiryShared across all three services.
Component Inspection
All parts reviewed before work begins. Any concerns are communicated before proceeding.
Dust-Managed Workspace
Movement and dial work is performed in a controlled environment with appropriate contamination precautions.
Documented Agreement
Scope, price, and timeline agreed and documented before work begins on any project.
Careful Packaging for Return
Pieces are returned securely packaged with appropriate protection for transit or studio collection.
Handover Documentation
Written summary of work done, observations made, and care notes included at project close.
Direct Communication
Updates come directly from the person doing the work — not through an intermediary or ticket system.
A project begins with one message.
Tell us about your piece. We will respond with an honest assessment of whether and how we can assist.
Request a Consultation