How much is my repair going to cost?
Take a look at my Services page, and it gives a pretty good guideline for my pricing. If there is a service you are interested in but don’t see it listed, please don’t hesitate to ask!
What happens in an “overhaul”?
A basic overhaul consists of several steps:
- Removing the movement from the case
- Removing the hands and dial
- Dissasembling the movement
- Cleaning the movement
- Reassembling the movement
- Lubricating the movement
- Timing the watch to measure accuracy and adjusting as necessary
- Reattaching the dial and hands
- Recasing the movement
How long will my repair take?
If no parts are needed, two to four weeks, plus shipping time. If parts are needed to complete the repair, the time frame could be more.
Do you work on replica watches?
Yes, I do. Your timepiece is important to you, regardless of the maker. Please bear in mind that while many replicas can be repaired, it is difficult to get replacement parts. Please also note that replica watches are made at a lower cost than genuine-branded watches. This means that often the parts are not made to the same standard that genuine watches are made, and the parts can suffer greater damage through simple use.
Do you work on quartz watches?
Yes, but please be aware that for many quartz watches, often the most cost-effective method of repair is to replace the entire movement. With that in mind, please also be aware that the movement in your quartz watch may not be available at all. If your brand is a “fashion” brand (Michelle Watch, Toy, Fossil, etc.) it may be most cost-effective for you to send the watch back to the manufacturer.
Do you work on electric watches?
No. Electric watches are a breed unto themselves, and the only thing I can do for them is change the battery. There are several watchmakers who specialize in electric watches, and I would highly recommend that you contact one of them.
Do you charge more based on the brand of the watch?
No, the brand of the watch is not a factor in my pricing. However, replacement parts for high-end watches may cost more and therefore the total cost of the repair may go up.
Do you use genuine parts for repairs?
Yes and no. Yes, if you want genuine parts and they are available, I will want to use genuine parts because they were made for the watch being repaired. However, many high-end watch manufacturers do not supply parts to independent watchmakers, resulting in parts only being available used or from after-market sellers on sites such as eBay. This stranglehold by watch manufacturers forces genuine parts to be more expensive to find and to purchase. So, in an effort to keep costs to the consumer lower, I will use generic parts if genuine parts are not available or are cost-prohibitive. I will only use generic parts, however, if you are comfortable with that.
What is your warranty?
I warranty my work for one year. If you are not satisfied with your repair, I will do everything I can to make it right. I do not warranty your watches against damages incurred to them after they are back in your possession.
How can I get my watch to you?
I do not have a retail location, and do not accept drop-offs at my home shop. If you have a jewelry or antique business and are interested in sub-contracting your watch repair to me, I am happy to pick and deliver at no charge. If you are an individual with three or more watches to repair (at one time, with repairs totaling $250 or more), I will arrange a pick-up date and time with you at a mutually convenient location. However, if you are an individual with fewer than three repairs, please understand that I am unable to arrange pick and delivery at this time. My delivery address for individuals is PO Box 7304, Minneapolis, MN 55407.
Are there questions you have but don’t see answered above? Please send me a note via the “Contact Me” page, and I will try my best to answer whatever questions you may have.