Finding a Watch Repair Near Me
Watches are delicate precision instruments, which is why they require expert service to remain in top condition. But not all watch repair shops are created equal. Whether it’s replacing your battery, fixing a watch band link or doing a full overhaul on a vintage Rolex or Patek Philippe, the quality of the craftsmanship is what counts in determining how well your watch works.
In addition to the quality of the work, you should also look at how clean a shop is. If a watchmaker isn’t cleaning up after himself, it could be a sign that he doesn’t take the time to do a thorough job.
Finally, it’s a good idea to ask a watchmaker about his experience and his background. Ultimately, you’re looking for a horologist who has been trained to fix a variety of watches and is familiar with repairing vintage pieces, too.
If you’re taking a vintage watch in for a full service, expect to pay around $300, Kivel says. And that’s before the cost of any replacement parts. But if you only need a battery replaced or the odd gear fixed, your costs will be much lower.
Some watch repair shops only do minor repairs like replacing a battery or adjusting the bracelet link. Others specialize in completing a full watch overhaul, including the refinishing of the case and the movement. A full overhaul can cost up to $500 and should last about 10 years.
Getting your watch repaired
Whether it’s your Rolex, Cartier or Tag Heuer, your watch is an investment and should be taken care of with the help of an experienced horologist. The first step is to determine what needs to be done to the watch, and what your budget is.
A high-end watch requires a horologist who is qualified to do a full service, which involves taking the entire watch apart and looking for problems. Then, the offending part is usually replaced. The process should last about a week and costs up to $500.
CHANEL recommends that you take your watch to an authorized CHANEL boutique or watch workshop for all services and repairs, as any non-authorized work exposes the watch to serious damage not covered by the International Guarantee. Watch repair near me