POSTED:August 10, 2026
Timeless Expertise
It is about doing things the right way. No shortcuts, just proper watchmaking.
Our Journal
The Showrooms
For Rolex aficionados, Lister Horsfall in Halifax and Ilkley is a must visit. As an Official Rolex Retailer, they are a fount of all knowledge when it comes to the servicing of the hugely popular watches. From the conception of a Rolex watch to the time it leaves the workshop, every step of its development and manufacture follows a single critical requirement: quality. As a result, there is no limit on how long a Rolex watch can keep working, being handed down from one generation to the next, and living several lives.
Want to learn more? Lister Horsfall is home to a host of experts in Rolex watches, from advice and what to buy, to how you can maintain them.
Here, we chat to three of their expert watchmakers, who offer a fascinating insight into the world of Rolex.
Our Journal
Alistair Cochrane
Q: Did you develop an interest in watches from an early age?
A: I’ve always been drawn to how things work – even as a child, I was the type to take things apart just to figure out how to put them back together. That natural curiosity evolved over time, but it was during a college work experience placement at a clock repair boutique that my fascination with watches truly began. It was a hands-on introduction to the fundamentals of mechanical timekeeping – a brilliant foundation – but I quickly realised I wanted to take things further. I was eager to work towards becoming a brand-accredited watchmaker and to immerse myself in artistry that fine watchmaking involves.
Q: Have you had an interest in Rolex watches for some time before working at Lister Horsfall?
A: From the moment I became interested in watchmaking, Rolex stood out to me. Long before I earned my Rolex accreditation – and had the privilege of working on their timepieces firsthand – I used to spend hours watching videos of watchmakers disassembling and assembling Rolex movements. There was something captivating about the care that went into every component. I think what drew me in most was the balance Rolex achieves: their movements aren’t just engineered to perform to incredibly tight tolerances, they’re also finished to an exceptional aesthetic standard. That harmony between technical mastery and visual perfection is what continues to inspire me every day at the bench.
Q: Why were you keen to join Lister Horsfall and work at their Rolex showroom?
A: What first drew me to Lister Horsfall was the exciting development of their new workshop – I’d heard about it through the manager at the British School of Watchmaking, where I trained. When I came for my interview, the refit of the showroom wasn’t yet complete, but it was immediately clear from speaking with CEO Nick Horsfall and Managing Director Gemma Moody that this was a place driven by real passion and a commitment to excellence. That stuck with me. Since then, the workshop has been fully transformed and fitted with state-of the-art Rolex tools and equipment. It is an inspiring place to work at.
Our Journal
Luke Mills
Q: Are you able to tackle all kinds of services for a Rolex watch?
L: Yes, as an Authorised Rolex Service Centre, we carry out a full range of servicing for Rolex watches. Every job is done using official Rolex parts and tools, which means everything is completed to the exact standards set by the brand. It’s about doing things the right way – no shortcuts, just proper watchmaking.
Q: Rolex is well-known for its top quality and longevity, so what kind of servicing is typically needed with the watches?
L: Rolex watches are built to be tough and reliable, which means they don’t need constant attention. In most cases, they only require servicing around every 10 years – though that can vary depending on how the watch is worn and used.
Q: How does the servicing journey start?
L: When a watch arrives with us, the first thing we do is carry out a detailed inspection. This allows us to carefully assess the condition of the watch and identify any issues that need attention. Once we’ve completed this check, we can provide the customer with a clear, honest report on what work is necessary to restore or maintain their timepiece before any repairs begin.
Q: How long does it typically take to fully service a Rolex watch?
L: The time a service takes really depends on what’s needed. That said, most of the watches we handle come in for a full service, which usually takes around 2 to 3 weeks. This timeframe covers everything – from the moment the watch arrives, through the full servicing, testing, and final quality checks, right up until it’s ready for collection.
Q: You are an Authorised Rolex Service Centre – essentially what does this mean?
L: Being an Authorised Rolex Service Centre isn’t just a title – it’s a responsibility we take seriously. Rolex trusts us to maintain their watches to the highest standards, and that means every service we complete comes with an official international warranty. So, wherever you are in the world, your watch’s service history is recognised and backed by Rolex’s global network. It’s peace of mind that your timepiece is in safe hands, no matter where life takes you.
The Journal
Will Sunderland
Q: How would you describe what we would find in the Rolex showroom?
W: A visit to the Lister Horsfall showroom is a chance to explore a carefully curated collection of fine watches and jewellery in a welcoming, beautifully designed space. There are private areas where you can take your time discussing pieces with our team, surrounded by bespoke artwork and thoughtful details. We’ve even got a fully stocked bar, with a dedicated barman ready to offer you a drink while you visit.
Q: What does your job entail?
W: When you leave your watch with us, it begins with a thorough assessment to ensure everything is working as it should – from timekeeping and winding to overall condition and water proofness. Our specialists then carefully disassemble the watch, inspecting each component with precision and care. Any part showing signs of wear is replaced – we believe in doing things properly to preserve both performance and longevity. Once reassembled, your watch undergoes a series of checks over several days to confirm it’s running perfectly. The result is a timepiece you can wear with complete confidence.
Q: Do customers often bring in older Rolex watches that mean a lot to them?
W: Many of the watches we service carry a deep sentimental value. Some have been lovingly passed down through generations, others were bought to celebrate a personal milestone, and many have spent years as a trusted companion on their owner’s wrist. It’s these stories and connections that remind us how much more than just a watch these timepieces truly are.
Q: Has there been a recent service you have taken on that had a really nice story attached to it?
W: We recently had a watch come through our workshop that held years of sentimental value for its owner. Unfortunately, it had taken a significant hit after being dropped. After a full service, we not only restored its functionality, but also refinished the case to bring back its original shine. With the watch looking and working like new again, the customer chose to pass it on to their daughter – giving the timepiece a fresh chapter to be enjoyed for years to come.
