What Clients Say After Collecting Their Watches

Challenge

A client's 1970s automatic dive watch had experienced water ingress after a worn crown gasket failed during a swimming trip. The movement was running erratically and had visible signs of moisture inside the crystal.

What We Did

After thorough drying and inspection, the movement required a full overhaul — several components showed the beginning of rust. All gaskets were renewed, the movement cleaned, re-oiled, and timed. Water resistance was tested on completion.

Outcome

Movement returned to its original power reserve. Timing accurate to within 8 seconds per day. Client returned six months later for a seal check as preventive care — a routine we now recommend annually for regularly worn sport watches.

Challenge

A collector brought in a 1960s Swiss dress watch purchased at auction. The movement hadn't been serviced in decades; the case had deep scratches and an inappropriate replacement crystal fitted at some point. The client wanted to wear it daily.

What We Did

Full movement overhaul. For the case, we discussed options — the client chose selective polishing that retained the watch's aged character while removing the deeper marks. A period-correct mineral crystal was sourced and fitted. All decisions made with the client's approval.

Outcome

A functioning daily wearer that retained its original aesthetic. Timing within 12 seconds per day — reasonable for the caliber's age. Photographic documentation of all stages was provided. The client described it as looking "how it probably looked fifty years ago."

Challenge

A client purchased a pre-owned sport watch from a private seller. The watch appeared to be in good condition but had no recent service history, and the client was planning a sailing trip. He wanted confidence in the water resistance before using it in open water.

What We Did

External condition noted; gaskets at all three points inspected. The crown gasket was worn and the case-back gasket had begun to harden. Both renewed, along with the crystal gasket. Pressure testing to the watch's rated depth confirmed water resistance was restored.

Outcome

Service completed in five days. The client took the watch on his sailing trip with confidence. He noted that the written summary we provided — including the test result — was something he'd keep with the watch's documentation going forward.