About thirty years ago upon completing my training, I was doing watch
repair for jewelry stores. I found that they wanted me to not take the
watches completely apart, but just run them through a cleaning process called one step
(cleaning and oiling with a plastic lube in the final rinse). When I was trained I
was trained to use different oils in differing amounts in various parts of the watch, and
to visually inspect the gears for excess wear and end shake. Using one-step lube allows
the repair to be inexpensive. As not much time is invested in the process. Watches
however were not designed for such treatment and this is not the way they should be
maintained. So I dropped the wholesale repair and opened up my own repair shop, where I
could clean and oil watches the way they were designed to be cleaned and oiled. For
example, when oiling the watch, actually taking the balance out of the watch and putting
oil in the cap jewels where it belongs (something that doesn't happen with one step
cleaning and oiling).
When I receive your watch, which you have carefully wrapped in double
padding, I give it a number that is scratched in the inside case back this is standard
practice and something that can be very useful to you if your watch is ever stolen and
recovered, as you the watch owner can then identify your watch. I then log it into a book
with it's unique number. I determine what kind of work needs to be done, and I E-Mail or telephone you an
estimate. Upon receiving your authorization I proceed. When the repair has been
completed I E-Mail or telephone you with the amount due, requesting a check or credit card
authorization. After receiving payment I then mail your watch back.
Thirty years ago when I started in this profession. there were a lot of
mechanical watches and very few battery powered watches. As time goes by and the battery
powered watches have proliferated, manufacturers have stopped making parts for a lot of
mechanical watches. Parts are therefore getting harder and harder to find. Fixing the
watch by making the part can be very very expensive, and sometimes it is a part I am not
able to make. You may have to wait weeks-to-months while I look for parts. I will give you
my detailed opinion as to different options and costs and do what you request.
As stated on my home page I make my living repairing watches and enjoy the
challenge of working with small parts that hardly anybody except me can see. If you decide
to send me your watch for repair I will feel honored and will do the best job I can,
including a one year no quibble warranty.
Thank you.
Watch Brands I Specialize in