Posted: 2/19/2015 4:06:22 PM EDT
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I have a Maurice LaCroix 'Masterpiece' Chrono that the stem came out on while I was trying to adjust the time. I popped it back on but I can't adjust time or calendar functions so I'm figuring it'll have to be sent off to a watch repair place, (likely the factory as there's little to no ML places here in the states.) Anyone have a rough ballpark to fix? I've been thinking of selling this watch and stepping up to an pre-owned Omega or Rolex but could never bring myself to do so since this watch worked.
For now I'm slumming it with my dive watch. |
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There are a couple watchmakers who repair high end timepieces that are well recommended by the people who post on the Rolex forum.
I can't think of their names at the moment, but they get mentioned fairly often. I've never feel like I'm "slumming" when I wear my SS Sub Datejust. 
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There are a couple watchmakers who repair high end timepieces that are well recommended by the people who post on the Rolex forum. I can't think of their names at the moment, but they get mentioned fairly often. I've never feel like I'm "slumming" when I wear my SS Sub Datejust.
My dive watch is a Citizen Aqualand, I would agree a Sub isn't 'slumming' it. I'm looking to stumble across a good deal on a Sub or Sea-dweller. |
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Is the stem broken or fully intact? Well it's somewhat "the front fell off." The stem head just pulled off as I was setting the time, I pushed it back on but it's not moving the hands so I fear broken. The watch had a service 5yrs ago but I had to send it back to the manufacture at that time which took about a month which isn't a deal-breaker but the cost is. I don't want to spend $500 to fix it when it's not really with that much money, plus I've been thinking of replacing it for a while. |
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Well it's somewhat "the front fell off." The stem head just pulled off as I was setting the time, I pushed it back on but it's not moving the hands so I fear broken. The watch had a service 5yrs ago but I had to send it back to the manufacture at that time which took about a month which isn't a deal-breaker but the cost is. I don't want to spend $500 to fix it when it's not really with that much money, plus I've been thinking of replacing it for a while. Quoted:
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Is the stem broken or fully intact? Well it's somewhat "the front fell off." The stem head just pulled off as I was setting the time, I pushed it back on but it's not moving the hands so I fear broken. The watch had a service 5yrs ago but I had to send it back to the manufacture at that time which took about a month which isn't a deal-breaker but the cost is. I don't want to spend $500 to fix it when it's not really with that much money, plus I've been thinking of replacing it for a while. If it literally just needs the crown and stem put back in, that's no big deal. If the detente or something broke, that's a little more work. Still shouldn't be hundreds of dollars, though. |
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If it literally just needs the crown and stem put back in, that's no big deal. If the detente or something broke, that's a little more work. Still shouldn't be hundreds of dollars, though. Quoted:
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Is the stem broken or fully intact? Well it's somewhat "the front fell off." The stem head just pulled off as I was setting the time, I pushed it back on but it's not moving the hands so I fear broken. The watch had a service 5yrs ago but I had to send it back to the manufacture at that time which took about a month which isn't a deal-breaker but the cost is. I don't want to spend $500 to fix it when it's not really with that much money, plus I've been thinking of replacing it for a while. If it literally just needs the crown and stem put back in, that's no big deal. If the detente or something broke, that's a little more work. Still shouldn't be hundreds of dollars, though. I contacted Maurice LaCroix yesterday and talked to a tech, sounds like a fairy minor and inexpensive repair. Sending my watch back to their NY location for service. Thankfully my watch has ETA Chrono works which are fairly robust according to the tech, he said the date/calendar "fly wheels" are the only parts prone to break if the owner sets the time between 9 and 12 which I never do. I do need to invest in a decent watch-winder, anyone have suggestions? Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile |
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Repair update. So I got a quote back from ML today, damage was $748. $152 in parts, the rest labor; mainspring, ball-baring and stem needed replacement. I'm not spending that kind of money on this watch, would I fare better with an independent watch person?
We're not talking a Rolex or Omega here. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile |
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ATLDiver:
I feel your pain. Yes, you might need a new stem or a set lever (the thingy that holds the stem in place). I have been a "fixer of watches", full time, for over 40 years in a family run, independent jewelry store, established in 1958. I spent 2 years at Gem City College, Quincy, IL (Tick Tock Tech :)) from 1969-1970. The only advancement in watchmaking in the last 400 years or so, is the advent of the co-axial escapement, pioneered by the late George Daniels. Omega bought his patent, and managed to screw it up by cutting corners. Your ML, if a mechanical movement, most likely has an ETA 2422, or some derivative. There is nothing special about this movement; whether mechanical, or quartz. ML did not make it. The way things are in the watch repair industry are as follows. Companies use ETA, Miyota, or cheap Chinese crap. They are cased by another company, and sold under the brand's name. I can service your ML watch, but they use proprietary case parts (crystals, gaskets) and they won't sell me these parts. You send your watch to ML's service center, there is no old fart like me repairing your watch. Instead, they have an assembly line set up where multiple people uncase the watch, remove the dial and hands, install a refurbished movement, test, and return it to you. If you don't like the repair quote, well, Tuff Shitsky, they will send it back unrepaired. The service centers do not do partial repairs The money is in selling NEW product - not repairing the old. On my bench now, I have 2 Hamilton Model 22 deck watches from WW2, an E. Howard 18 size pocket watch made in 1875, and a Universal Geneve 285 column wheel chronograph made in 1949, all awaiting servicing. I like doing the old stuff-the family history that something this old , family history can appreciate. At a service center, I would spend my day swapping movements. I had a Rolex parts account for many years. On January 1, 2013, it was terminated, as evidently I had become too senile and too ignorant to service their watches. This was not a factory gig, just an independent watch repair person trying to make a living. This is the way all the "Brands" are doing things today. No one, except for some of the super high end manufactures (Patek, ect.) make their own movements. They get you on the proprietary, case parts, which they sell to no one. Imagine the outrage if you had a Ford vehicle, and the only place you could get parts, or repaired, was at a Ford dealership. Sorry for the rant. And no, I don't accept repairs by mail. |
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ATLDiver: I feel your pain. Yes, you might need a new stem or a set lever (the thingy that holds the stem in place). I have been a "fixer of watches", full time, for over 40 years in a family run, independent jewelry store, established in 1958. I spent 2 years at Gem City College, Quincy, IL (Tick Tock Tech :)) from 1969-1970. The only advancement in watchmaking in the last 400 years or so, is the advent of the co-axial escapement, pioneered by the late George Daniels. Omega bought his patent, and managed to screw it up by cutting corners. Your ML, if a mechanical movement, most likely has an ETA 2422, or some derivative. There is nothing special about this movement; whether mechanical, or quartz. ML did not make it. The way things are in the watch repair industry are as follows. Companies use ETA, Miyota, or cheap Chinese crap. They are cased by another company, and sold under the brand's name. I can service your ML watch, but they use proprietary case parts (crystals, gaskets) and they won't sell me these parts. You send your watch to ML's service center, there is no old fart like me repairing your watch. Instead, they have an assembly line set up where multiple people uncase the watch, remove the dial and hands, install a refurbished movement, test, and return it to you. If you don't like the repair quote, well, Tuff Shitsky, they will send it back unrepaired. The service centers do not do partial repairs The money is in selling NEW product - not repairing the old. On my bench now, I have 2 Hamilton Model 22 deck watches from WW2, an E. Howard 18 size pocket watch made in 1875, and a Universal Geneve 285 column wheel chronograph made in 1949, all awaiting servicing. I like doing the old stuff-the family history that something this old , family history can appreciate. At a service center, I would spend my day swapping movements. I had a Rolex parts account for many years. On January 1, 2013, it was terminated, as evidently I had become too senile and too ignorant to service their watches. This was not a factory gig, just an independent watch repair person trying to make a living. This is the way all the "Brands" are doing things today. No one, except for some of the super high end manufactures (Patek, ect.) make their own movements. They get you on the proprietary, case parts, which they sell to no one. Imagine the outrage if you had a Ford vehicle, and the only place you could get parts, or repaired, was at a Ford dealership. Sorry for the rant. And no, I don't accept repairs by mail. Mind if I PM, I wouldn't mind the cost if it were more of a higher end watch to be honest. To me mechanicals, (my ML has an ETA movement,) are marvels of engineering. My plan is to get the watch back and look for an independent person to repair; then again I may actually justify pony'ing up to a used Omega or Rolex. So I'll fix my ML if it's not too costly. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile |
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Quoted: Vostok does.  Quoted: Quoted: No one, except for some of the super high end manufactures (Patek, ect.) make their own movements. Vostok does. So does Seiko. Out of the Swiss watch manufacturers, most use ETA movements. Here is a list of watch companies and movements: 1) Uses only original movements and manufactures other major components (case, dial and hands) of every watch in-house. Glashütte Original Haldimann Horology Jaeger-LeCoultre Rolex Seiko (also makes crystals) R.W. Smith Andreas Strehler Urwerk 2) Uses only original movements. Vincent Berard Blancpain Citizen De Bethune Philippe Dufour Jean Dunand/C. Claret Jean Daniel Nicholas F.P. Journe A. Lange & Sohne Richard Mille Minerva Piaget Vulcain Vyskocil (also makes case in-house) Zenith 3a) Uses some original movements, but also uses base movements/ebauches with extensive and substantive in-house modification such that a unique movement results. Vincent Calabrese Roger Dubuis Gerald Genta Paul Gerber IWC Kiu Tai Yu Franck Muller Ulysse Nardin Parmigiani Revue Thommen Daniel Roth Speake-Marin 3b) Mostly uses original movements. but also uses supplied or refinished movements. Breguet Girard-Perregaux Patek Philippe Vacheron Constantin 3c) Uses some original movements, but mostly uses supplied or refinished movements. Audemars Piguet Chopard Frederique Constant Poljot Vostok Harry Winston Fine Timepieces 4) Begins with supplied ebauche or base movement, but does extensive and substantive in-house modification such that a unique movement results Svend Andersen Arnold & Son/La Jour Perret Martin Braun Breitling Graham/La Jour Perret Richard Habring Vianney Halter Urban Jürgensen & Sønner Christiaan van der Klaauw Lang & Heyne Rainer Nienaber Nomos Pita Thomas Prescher Haute Horologie Antoine Preziuso 5) Designs and manufactures at least most movements in-group Jaquet Droz Longines Omega Tissot |
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3c) Uses some original movements, but mostly uses suppliedor refinished movements. Poljot Vostok Not as sure about Poljot, I know there's been some weirdness with regards to brand ownership and whatnot there, but most Vostoks are either a 2416 or a 2409 movement, Vostok's in-house mainstays. I believe they're made right in Chistopol where they always have been. They only recently even started offering their watches on outsourced bands, and I think that was a big leap for them. Vostok Europe watches are a totally different brand made in (IIRC) Lithuania-or-something, with their autos being tuned up 2416's with shit stuck on like the 2432 with it's day/night indicator. Maybe that's what they meant but even then, I don't think VE is making any of their own movements, seems like an assembly-only operation. It's not to say Vostoks compare with Rolexes, just that their archaic business plan happens to allow them this one point to brag on, as well as the couched suggestion that maybe the whole "in house movement" thing isn't really as definite an indicator of quality as some might think. |
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Repair update. So I got a quote back from ML today, damage was $748. $152 in parts, the rest labor; mainspring, ball-baring and stem needed replacement. I'm not spending that kind of money on this watch, would I fare better with an independent watch person? We're not talking a Rolex or Omega here. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile from what you described happened you bent or broke at least 2 setting levers that are moved by the stem. That requires a complete tear down, as they are THE VERY last things in a disassembly. you will be lucky to find someone to do the labor for less than $350, without parts. I don't want to push you into getting repaired, but I would do it soon as ETA is going to stop selling parts very soon. The Watch world is about to change for the worse wtih ETA's decision. |
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from what you described happened you bent or broke at least 2 setting levers that are moved by the stem. That requires a complete tear down, as they are THE VERY last things in a disassembly. you will be lucky to find someone to do the labor for less than $350, without parts. I don't want to push you into getting repaired, but I would do it soon as ETA is going to stop selling parts very soon. The Watch world is about to change for the worse wtih ETA's decision. Quoted:
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Repair update. So I got a quote back from ML today, damage was $748. $152 in parts, the rest labor; mainspring, ball-baring and stem needed replacement. I'm not spending that kind of money on this watch, would I fare better with an independent watch person? We're not talking a Rolex or Omega here. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile from what you described happened you bent or broke at least 2 setting levers that are moved by the stem. That requires a complete tear down, as they are THE VERY last things in a disassembly. you will be lucky to find someone to do the labor for less than $350, without parts. I don't want to push you into getting repaired, but I would do it soon as ETA is going to stop selling parts very soon. The Watch world is about to change for the worse wtih ETA's decision. Quote was $243 with parts and labor, it should be ready in a week or so. I think I'm going to sell it after I get it back and get something different. If I buy a new mechanical, I'll just bite the bullet and get a lightly used Sea Dweller or maybe a Planet Ocean. |
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Quote was $243 with parts and labor, it should be ready in a week or so. I think I'm going to sell it after I get it back and get something different. If I buy a new mechanical, I'll just bite the bullet and get a lightly used Sea Dweller or maybe a Planet Ocean. Quoted:
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Repair update. So I got a quote back from ML today, damage was $748. $152 in parts, the rest labor; mainspring, ball-baring and stem needed replacement. I'm not spending that kind of money on this watch, would I fare better with an independent watch person? We're not talking a Rolex or Omega here. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile from what you described happened you bent or broke at least 2 setting levers that are moved by the stem. That requires a complete tear down, as they are THE VERY last things in a disassembly. you will be lucky to find someone to do the labor for less than $350, without parts. I don't want to push you into getting repaired, but I would do it soon as ETA is going to stop selling parts very soon. The Watch world is about to change for the worse wtih ETA's decision. Quote was $243 with parts and labor, it should be ready in a week or so. I think I'm going to sell it after I get it back and get something different. If I buy a new mechanical, I'll just bite the bullet and get a lightly used Sea Dweller or maybe a Planet Ocean. I came close to buying a 16800 this year, real freaking close. Sea Dwellers are just too heavy for my old wrists. i would pass on the Omega, they don't hold their resale that well. |
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I came close to buying a 16800 this year, real freaking close. Sea Dwellers are just too heavy for my old wrists. i would pass on the Omega, they don't hold their resale that well. Quoted:
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Repair update. So I got a quote back from ML today, damage was $748. $152 in parts, the rest labor; mainspring, ball-baring and stem needed replacement. I'm not spending that kind of money on this watch, would I fare better with an independent watch person? We're not talking a Rolex or Omega here. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile from what you described happened you bent or broke at least 2 setting levers that are moved by the stem. That requires a complete tear down, as they are THE VERY last things in a disassembly. you will be lucky to find someone to do the labor for less than $350, without parts. I don't want to push you into getting repaired, but I would do it soon as ETA is going to stop selling parts very soon. The Watch world is about to change for the worse wtih ETA's decision. Quote was $243 with parts and labor, it should be ready in a week or so. I think I'm going to sell it after I get it back and get something different. If I buy a new mechanical, I'll just bite the bullet and get a lightly used Sea Dweller or maybe a Planet Ocean. I came close to buying a 16800 this year, real freaking close. Sea Dwellers are just too heavy for my old wrists. i would pass on the Omega, they don't hold their resale that well. Im about *this* close to justifying one for myself. I appreciate mechanicals but don't buy into the status of Rolex's but I do desire something to pass down to my son. |
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from what you described happened you bent or broke at least 2 setting levers that are moved by the stem. That requires a complete tear down, as they are THE VERY last things in a disassembly. you will be lucky to find someone to do the labor for less than $350, without parts. I don't want to push you into getting repaired, but I would do it soon as ETA is going to stop selling parts very soon. The Watch world is about to change for the worse wtih ETA's decision. Quoted:
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Repair update. So I got a quote back from ML today, damage was $748. $152 in parts, the rest labor; mainspring, ball-baring and stem needed replacement. I'm not spending that kind of money on this watch, would I fare better with an independent watch person? We're not talking a Rolex or Omega here. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile from what you described happened you bent or broke at least 2 setting levers that are moved by the stem. That requires a complete tear down, as they are THE VERY last things in a disassembly. you will be lucky to find someone to do the labor for less than $350, without parts. I don't want to push you into getting repaired, but I would do it soon as ETA is going to stop selling parts very soon. The Watch world is about to change for the worse wtih ETA's decision. Depending on the specific parts (set lever, etc.) you are talking about and what movement it is on, that is not necessarily true at all about having to completely disassemble a watch in order to get to the issue in this case. |
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Depending on the specific parts (set lever, etc.) you are talking about and what movement it is on, that is not necessarily true at all about having to completely disassemble a watch in order to get to the issue in this case. Quoted:
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Repair update. So I got a quote back from ML today, damage was $748. $152 in parts, the rest labor; mainspring, ball-baring and stem needed replacement. I'm not spending that kind of money on this watch, would I fare better with an independent watch person? We're not talking a Rolex or Omega here. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile from what you described happened you bent or broke at least 2 setting levers that are moved by the stem. That requires a complete tear down, as they are THE VERY last things in a disassembly. you will be lucky to find someone to do the labor for less than $350, without parts. I don't want to push you into getting repaired, but I would do it soon as ETA is going to stop selling parts very soon. The Watch world is about to change for the worse wtih ETA's decision. Depending on the specific parts (set lever, etc.) you are talking about and what movement it is on, that is not necessarily true at all about having to completely disassemble a watch in order to get to the issue in this case. Chrongraph.... All I'm gonna say. |
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Im about *this* close to justifying one for myself. I appreciate mechanicals but don't buy into the status of Rolex's but I do desire something to pass down to my son. Quoted:
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Repair update. So I got a quote back from ML today, damage was $748. $152 in parts, the rest labor; mainspring, ball-baring and stem needed replacement. I'm not spending that kind of money on this watch, would I fare better with an independent watch person? We're not talking a Rolex or Omega here. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile from what you described happened you bent or broke at least 2 setting levers that are moved by the stem. That requires a complete tear down, as they are THE VERY last things in a disassembly. you will be lucky to find someone to do the labor for less than $350, without parts. I don't want to push you into getting repaired, but I would do it soon as ETA is going to stop selling parts very soon. The Watch world is about to change for the worse wtih ETA's decision. Quote was $243 with parts and labor, it should be ready in a week or so. I think I'm going to sell it after I get it back and get something different. If I buy a new mechanical, I'll just bite the bullet and get a lightly used Sea Dweller or maybe a Planet Ocean. I came close to buying a 16800 this year, real freaking close. Sea Dwellers are just too heavy for my old wrists. i would pass on the Omega, they don't hold their resale that well. Im about *this* close to justifying one for myself. I appreciate mechanicals but don't buy into the status of Rolex's but I do desire something to pass down to my son. Say what you want about Rolex, but the hold their valve better than any watch made other than Patek. |
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Chrongraph.... All I'm gonna say. Quoted:
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Repair update. So I got a quote back from ML today, damage was $748. $152 in parts, the rest labor; mainspring, ball-baring and stem needed replacement. I'm not spending that kind of money on this watch, would I fare better with an independent watch person? We're not talking a Rolex or Omega here. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile from what you described happened you bent or broke at least 2 setting levers that are moved by the stem. That requires a complete tear down, as they are THE VERY last things in a disassembly. you will be lucky to find someone to do the labor for less than $350, without parts. I don't want to push you into getting repaired, but I would do it soon as ETA is going to stop selling parts very soon. The Watch world is about to change for the worse wtih ETA's decision. Depending on the specific parts (set lever, etc.) you are talking about and what movement it is on, that is not necessarily true at all about having to completely disassemble a watch in order to get to the issue in this case. Chrongraph.... All I'm gonna say. Lol. That doesn't mean you have to disassemble the whole watch to get to the set lever, etc. |
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Lol. That doesn't mean you have to disassemble the whole watch to get to the set lever, etc. Quoted:
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Repair update. So I got a quote back from ML today, damage was $748. $152 in parts, the rest labor; mainspring, ball-baring and stem needed replacement. I'm not spending that kind of money on this watch, would I fare better with an independent watch person? We're not talking a Rolex or Omega here. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile from what you described happened you bent or broke at least 2 setting levers that are moved by the stem. That requires a complete tear down, as they are THE VERY last things in a disassembly. you will be lucky to find someone to do the labor for less than $350, without parts. I don't want to push you into getting repaired, but I would do it soon as ETA is going to stop selling parts very soon. The Watch world is about to change for the worse wtih ETA's decision. Depending on the specific parts (set lever, etc.) you are talking about and what movement it is on, that is not necessarily true at all about having to completely disassemble a watch in order to get to the issue in this case. Chrongraph.... All I'm gonna say. Lol. That doesn't mean you have to disassemble the whole watch to get to the set lever, etc. depends on the watch. Most of stem setting lever are under the winder and complications . All I have seen at least. I am not master watchmaker. It's a hobby for me. |
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depends on the watch. Most of stem setting lever are under the winder and complications . All I have seen at least. I am not master watchmaker. It's a hobby for me. As I said, it depends which part and caliber you're talking about, but often you'll find this on the *dial* side of the watch. Here's a 7733, for example: 
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As I said, it depends which part and caliber you're talking about, but often you'll find this on the *dial* side of the watch. Here's a 7733, for example: http://www.ranfft.de/bidfun/katb/2uswk/Valjoux_7733-1.jpg Quoted:
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depends on the watch. Most of stem setting lever are under the winder and complications . All I have seen at least. I am not master watchmaker. It's a hobby for me. As I said, it depends which part and caliber you're talking about, but often you'll find this on the *dial* side of the watch. Here's a 7733, for example: http://www.ranfft.de/bidfun/katb/2uswk/Valjoux_7733-1.jpg The OP's watch is a chronograph. You would have to remove all the chrono complications, date complications, and day complications to get there. |
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The OP's watch is a chronograph. You would have to remove all the chrono complications, date complications, and day complications to get there. Quoted:
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depends on the watch. Most of stem setting lever are under the winder and complications . All I have seen at least. I am not master watchmaker. It's a hobby for me. As I said, it depends which part and caliber you're talking about, but often you'll find this on the *dial* side of the watch. Here's a 7733, for example: http://www.ranfft.de/bidfun/katb/2uswk/Valjoux_7733-1.jpg The OP's watch is a chronograph. You would have to remove all the chrono complications, date complications, and day complications to get there. The Valjoux 7733 is a chronograph. It is the base design for the 7750s and many of the ETAs out there. If it it has day and date wheels you would have to remove them...but that is on the dial side. That is not at all the equivalent of completely disassembling a movement. |
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This is from a 2010 post on WUS regarding a Valjoux 7733:
"The little dimpled button next to the stem. Pull the stem into the setting position, push the button and pull the stem free. Re-install in reverse order." I'm not a watch mechanic, so I can't speak to the validity of the above statement. |
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This is from a 2010 post on WUS regarding a Valjoux 7733: "The little dimpled button next to the stem. Pull the stem into the setting position, push the button and pull the stem free. Re-install in reverse order." I'm not a watch mechanic, so I can't speak to the validity of the above statement. Yep, Dave...I believe you're right. Here you can see the release button bottom center of the picture on a 7750 automatic variety: 
This would need to be pressed again to reinsert the stem and hold correctly. However, if the set lever broke, I believe you can access it from the dial side alone, as seen on the right side of the frame here: 
(Pictures courtesy of TimeZone) Still, not something someone unfamiliar with movement works would want to get into, but not necessarily calling for a complete service, either, depending on the extent of the damage. I also found this thread showing the adjustment of the keyless works on the 7750, where you can see how the set lever, etc., could be replaced. http://www.replica-watch.info/vb/showthread.php/135678-Keyless-work-fix-Part-2-7750 |
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Damn, this site never ceases to amaze me at the members and their knowledge about various things. Thanks guys for the education, anyone interested in seeing the report of the health on my watch? In short the tech said my watch was running 'ok' but recommended a full overhaul which for the price I can't justifying. If the watch held more value than it does it would be a no brainer but at $717 I'd rather put that into a nice watch IMO.
I find myself strangly drawn to vintage stuff for some reason.... |
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I would certainly say that if it is likely in need of service then you would want to do that while they were diving into the watch anyway.
Also, a certified service would add to the value of the watch, at least to someone who is interested and knows the value of having itnrewdy to go. |
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I would certainly say that if it is likely in need of service then you would want to do that while they were diving into the watch anyway. Also, a certified service would add to the value of the watch, at least to someone who is interested and knows the value of having itnrewdy to go. Yeah I get that but given the overhaul costs just shy what I paid for the watch new 12 yrs ago it gives me pause. If it were worth a few grand plus, sure no problem but say for instance someone's Seiko 5 needs service and the cost was $500 for a watch not worth the amount. Doesn't sound like a wise move but perhaps I'm looking at this wrong. |
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Yeah I get that but given the overhaul costs just shy what I paid for the watch new 12 yrs ago it gives me pause. If it were worth a few grand plus, sure no problem but say for instance someone's Seiko 5 needs service and the cost was $500 for a watch not worth the amount. Doesn't sound like a wise move but perhaps I'm looking at this wrong. Quoted:
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I would certainly say that if it is likely in need of service then you would want to do that while they were diving into the watch anyway. Also, a certified service would add to the value of the watch, at least to someone who is interested and knows the value of having itnrewdy to go. Yeah I get that but given the overhaul costs just shy what I paid for the watch new 12 yrs ago it gives me pause. If it were worth a few grand plus, sure no problem but say for instance someone's Seiko 5 needs service and the cost was $500 for a watch not worth the amount. Doesn't sound like a wise move but perhaps I'm looking at this wrong. No, you aren't looking at it "wrong"; yours is just one of the perspectives people can have depending on their purposes. Someone who doesn't intend to keep a car long term may want to sell or trade it before the repair bill comes due for maintenance that is imminent. People do that all the time. Service, like with automobiles, Is just one of the amounts you factor into the lifetime cost. I've heard it said before, and it's awfully true, that with watches like Rolex's you are really just paying to rent the watch for the duraration of your ownership, because of the costs associated with getting necessary services done solely by "certified Rolex". Not saying that's bad, just saying. |
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No, you aren't looking at it "wrong"; yours is just one of the perspectives people can have depending on their purposes. Someone who doesn't intend to keep a car long term may want to sell or trade it before the repair bill comes due for maintenance that is imminent. People do that all the time. Service, like with automobiles, Is just one of the amounts you factor into the lifetime cost. I've heard it said before, and it's awfully true, that with watches like Rolex's you are really just paying to rent the watch for the duraration of your ownership, because of the costs associated with getting necessary services done solely by "certified Rolex". Not saying that's bad, just saying. Quoted:
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I would certainly say that if it is likely in need of service then you would want to do that while they were diving into the watch anyway. Also, a certified service would add to the value of the watch, at least to someone who is interested and knows the value of having itnrewdy to go. Yeah I get that but given the overhaul costs just shy what I paid for the watch new 12 yrs ago it gives me pause. If it were worth a few grand plus, sure no problem but say for instance someone's Seiko 5 needs service and the cost was $500 for a watch not worth the amount. Doesn't sound like a wise move but perhaps I'm looking at this wrong. No, you aren't looking at it "wrong"; yours is just one of the perspectives people can have depending on their purposes. Someone who doesn't intend to keep a car long term may want to sell or trade it before the repair bill comes due for maintenance that is imminent. People do that all the time. Service, like with automobiles, Is just one of the amounts you factor into the lifetime cost. I've heard it said before, and it's awfully true, that with watches like Rolex's you are really just paying to rent the watch for the duraration of your ownership, because of the costs associated with getting necessary services done solely by "certified Rolex". Not saying that's bad, just saying. Rolex doesn't work on watches over 25 years old anymore. I got a letter the last time that I sent in my Explorer 1 that they would no longer service it due to it's age. They cited a new company policy. Fuck Rolex. Like what the guy in this Rolex forum got. http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=248393 |
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Rolex doesn't work on watches over 25 years old anymore. I got a letter the last time that I sent in my Explorer 1 that they would no longer service it due to it's age. They cited a new company policy. Fuck Rolex. Like what the guy in this Rolex forum got. http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=248393 Quoted:
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I would certainly say that if it is likely in need of service then you would want to do that while they were diving into the watch anyway. Also, a certified service would add to the value of the watch, at least to someone who is interested and knows the value of having itnrewdy to go. Yeah I get that but given the overhaul costs just shy what I paid for the watch new 12 yrs ago it gives me pause. If it were worth a few grand plus, sure no problem but say for instance someone's Seiko 5 needs service and the cost was $500 for a watch not worth the amount. Doesn't sound like a wise move but perhaps I'm looking at this wrong. No, you aren't looking at it "wrong"; yours is just one of the perspectives people can have depending on their purposes. Someone who doesn't intend to keep a car long term may want to sell or trade it before the repair bill comes due for maintenance that is imminent. People do that all the time. Service, like with automobiles, Is just one of the amounts you factor into the lifetime cost. I've heard it said before, and it's awfully true, that with watches like Rolex's you are really just paying to rent the watch for the duraration of your ownership, because of the costs associated with getting necessary services done solely by "certified Rolex". Not saying that's bad, just saying. Rolex doesn't work on watches over 25 years old anymore. I got a letter the last time that I sent in my Explorer 1 that they would no longer service it due to it's age. They cited a new company policy. Fuck Rolex. Like what the guy in this Rolex forum got. http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=248393 Really?!? Yikes... Not that someone else can't work in an old Rolex out there but...doesn't that do away with servicing all "Bond" Submariners? I would think that would be good $$ for their service dept. I suppose they don't need it! Lol |
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Really?!? Yikes... Not that someone else can't work in an old Rolex out there but...doesn't that do away with servicing all "Bond" Submariners? I would think that would be good $$ for their service dept. I suppose they don't need it! Lol Quoted:
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I would certainly say that if it is likely in need of service then you would want to do that while they were diving into the watch anyway. Also, a certified service would add to the value of the watch, at least to someone who is interested and knows the value of having itnrewdy to go. Yeah I get that but given the overhaul costs just shy what I paid for the watch new 12 yrs ago it gives me pause. If it were worth a few grand plus, sure no problem but say for instance someone's Seiko 5 needs service and the cost was $500 for a watch not worth the amount. Doesn't sound like a wise move but perhaps I'm looking at this wrong. No, you aren't looking at it "wrong"; yours is just one of the perspectives people can have depending on their purposes. Someone who doesn't intend to keep a car long term may want to sell or trade it before the repair bill comes due for maintenance that is imminent. People do that all the time. Service, like with automobiles, Is just one of the amounts you factor into the lifetime cost. I've heard it said before, and it's awfully true, that with watches like Rolex's you are really just paying to rent the watch for the duraration of your ownership, because of the costs associated with getting necessary services done solely by "certified Rolex". Not saying that's bad, just saying. Rolex doesn't work on watches over 25 years old anymore. I got a letter the last time that I sent in my Explorer 1 that they would no longer service it due to it's age. They cited a new company policy. Fuck Rolex. Like what the guy in this Rolex forum got. http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=248393 Really?!? Yikes... Not that someone else can't work in an old Rolex out there but...doesn't that do away with servicing all "Bond" Submariners? I would think that would be good $$ for their service dept. I suppose they don't need it! Lol I found an independant guy in my area that still does, but he is as old as dirt ( I'm old..... this guy is ancient). When he dies / retires it will be a bad thing. |
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I found an independant guy in my area that still does, but he is as old as dirt ( I'm old..... this guy is ancient). When he dies / retires it will be a bad thing. Same thing with my watchmaker. I've been learning and getting stuff through him for a while now. Trying to do what I can while he's still at the bench! He won't work on high end brands, though. 
I don't know many around here that would service an old Rolex. Good that you have one, at least! |
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Same thing with my watchmaker. I've been learning and getting stuff through him for a while now. Trying to do what I can while he's still at the bench! He won't work on high end brands, though.
I don't know many around here that would service an old Rolex. Good that you have one, at least! Quoted:
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I found an independant guy in my area that still does, but he is as old as dirt ( I'm old..... this guy is ancient). When he dies / retires it will be a bad thing. Same thing with my watchmaker. I've been learning and getting stuff through him for a while now. Trying to do what I can while he's still at the bench! He won't work on high end brands, though.
I don't know many around here that would service an old Rolex. Good that you have one, at least! That's why I started learning. If it wasn't my Grandfathers watch (Explorer 1) that I inherieted, I would have sold it when Rolex sent me the letter after the last Service. It's a dying art, I am afraid. At least sometimes you can pick up tools for the cheap on the Bay if you watch long enough. I got a whole set of Bergen mainspring winders for $79 last summer (new price right now is around $1000) current price Bergeon 5356 Mainspring Winder Set of 17 For Left & Right Hand Mainsprings Set of Mainspring Winders for left and right hand mainsprings. Set contains 17 drums size 00 (5.3 mm dia.) to size 15 (19 mm), 17 each right and left hand arbors, two handles, one right and one left. BERG-5356 $1,028.00 |
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That's why I started learning. If it wasn't my Grandfathers watch (Explorer 1) that I inherieted, I would have sold it when Rolex sent me the letter after the last Service. It's a dying art, I am afraid. At least sometimes you can pick up tools for the cheap on the Bay if you watch long enough. I got a whole set of Bergen mainspring winders for $79 last summer (new price right now is around $1000) current price Bergeon 5356 Mainspring Winder Set of 17 For Left & Right Hand Mainsprings Set of Mainspring Winders for left and right hand mainsprings. Set contains 17 drums size 00 (5.3 mm dia.) to size 15 (19 mm), 17 each right and left hand arbors, two handles, one right and one left. BERG-5356 $1,028.00 Quoted:
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I found an independant guy in my area that still does, but he is as old as dirt ( I'm old..... this guy is ancient). When he dies / retires it will be a bad thing. Same thing with my watchmaker. I've been learning and getting stuff through him for a while now. Trying to do what I can while he's still at the bench! He won't work on high end brands, though.
I don't know many around here that would service an old Rolex. Good that you have one, at least! That's why I started learning. If it wasn't my Grandfathers watch (Explorer 1) that I inherieted, I would have sold it when Rolex sent me the letter after the last Service. It's a dying art, I am afraid. At least sometimes you can pick up tools for the cheap on the Bay if you watch long enough. I got a whole set of Bergen mainspring winders for $79 last summer (new price right now is around $1000) current price Bergeon 5356 Mainspring Winder Set of 17 For Left & Right Hand Mainsprings Set of Mainspring Winders for left and right hand mainsprings. Set contains 17 drums size 00 (5.3 mm dia.) to size 15 (19 mm), 17 each right and left hand arbors, two handles, one right and one left. BERG-5356 $1,028.00 I definitely agree. There used to be many a watchmaker on the city street corners. Not anymore... If you can get anything with Bergeon on it for under $100 you're doing good. I don't care if it's just the cardboard the tools come in -- that probably cost more!
Great pickup! |
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My Rolex SS Submariner date is pushing 27 years old, got it back from the RSC in Dallas about a year ago. No problem getting it completely serviced and the RSC had no problem sourcing genuine, Rolex parts.
Still covered by the repair warranty (2 years), so I doubt that they'd refuse to perform a warranted repair. The problem with Rolex servicing older watches is that they will/may replace parts that shouldn't be replaced in a collector/vintage watch, and they will NOT return the old parts. Rolex policy when servicing a watch is to return it to the condition it was in the day it left the factory. Collectors of vintage Rolexes want the watch to be as original as possible. Replace the dial on a Red Dial Sub, and you've just destroyed its collector value. Rolex will refuse to service watches that have been modified or contain non-Rolex parts, I've heard that in some some cases, that includes the bracelet. Owners of vintage or collectable Rolexes will frequently have independent watchmakers service their watches in order to maintain its collector value and frankly, save some hard earned dollars. |
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My Rolex SS Submariner date is pushing 27 years old, got it back from the RSC in Dallas about a year ago. No problem getting it completely serviced and the RSC had no problem sourcing genuine, Rolex parts. Still covered by the repair warranty (2 years), so I doubt that they'd refuse to perform a warranted repair. The problem with Rolex servicing older watches is that they will/may replace parts that shouldn't be replaced in a collector/vintage watch, and they will NOT return the old parts. Rolex policy when servicing a watch is to return it to the condition it was in the day it left the factory. Collectors of vintage Rolexes want the watch to be as original as possible. Replace the dial on a Red Dial Sub, and you've just destroyed its collector value. Rolex will refuse to service watches that have been modified or contain non-Rolex parts, I've heard that in some some cases, that includes the bracelet. Owners of vintage or collectable Rolexes will frequently have independent watchmakers service their watches in order to maintain its collector value and frankly, save some hard earned dollars. Great input, Dave! Thanks for adding that. It certainly makes a difference when you think about some of those points. |
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My Rolex SS Submariner date is pushing 27 years old, got it back from the RSC in Dallas about a year ago. No problem getting it completely serviced and the RSC had no problem sourcing genuine, Rolex parts. Still covered by the repair warranty (2 years), so I doubt that they'd refuse to perform a warranted repair. The problem with Rolex servicing older watches is that they will/may replace parts that shouldn't be replaced in a collector/vintage watch, and they will NOT return the old parts. Rolex policy when servicing a watch is to return it to the condition it was in the day it left the factory. Collectors of vintage Rolexes want the watch to be as original as possible. Replace the dial on a Red Dial Sub, and you've just destroyed its collector value. Rolex will refuse to service watches that have been modified or contain non-Rolex parts, I've heard that in some some cases, that includes the bracelet. Owners of vintage or collectable Rolexes will frequently have independent watchmakers service their watches in order to maintain its collector value and frankly, save some hard earned dollars. Mine is a 1967 Rolex Explorer 1. they (Rolex service center NewYork) serviced it in 2010, but sent the letter back with the watch after servicing saying after this service they would not do it anymore as it was too old. Fuck Rolex. |