Questions You Should be Asking When in Search of a Jeweler to Repair a Fine Watch
When you have already invested in a timepiece, where you took the time to ensure you purchased quality workmanship, then it makes perfect sense that you will use this same care for choosing where you have your fine watch repaired. While there may be many jewelry stores that offer watch repairs, it really pays off to do a bit of research on who you should be using. Below are a questions you can use before you decide on the right watch repairman.
Finding a good watch repair service in your local area is not always an easy task, particularly when the watch that requires repairs is either a precious family heirloom or a cherished vintage piece. Before you decide to leave the watch at the closest repair shop, it is highly recommended to find out more information about the entire process as well as what it will involve in association to the completion time and the costs involved.
- Ask The Repairman If The Work Is Conducted On The Premises, Or Will The Watch Be Sent Away?
If the jeweler tells you that they send watches away for repairs, you need to find out about where the watch will be sent. You should also find out if the watch is sent away whether you will be able to contact the person that is conducting the actual repairs on the watch.
If the jeweler shows reluctance on the company or person they use to conduct the repairs, this may be a red flag. This is not always a sign of a bad repair service, but could be an indication of trouble ahead. In addition, you will be isolated from what is done on your watch.
- Ask For References From Prior Customers
Ask the repairman to give you the names and contact details of individuals who have previously used their watch repair services. Make sure you contact at least three or four of these references and ask them to give you their honest opinions about services provided by the jeweler that you are considering.
If your watch is important for sentimental reasons or for its actual monetary value you will want to ensure that the customers you are speaking to, offer information about high levels of satisfaction in association to the work they had done.
- Ask If The Jeweler Offers A Guarantee On The Work That They Do
If the jeweler tells you they are unable to guarantee their workmanship or they seem hesitant to offer a guarantee, you may want to start looking elsewhere.
- Ask The Jeweler For An Estimate And If You Will Be Charged For Your Estimate
Charging for a quality estimate is usual as it generally involves thorough examinations and some time in order to complete. It is also not at all unreasonable when conducting repairs on a fine watch for an additional cost that is added to your final bill to remedy issues that are discovered into the process of repair at a later stage. It is more important to get an idea on what needs to be fixed and what costs are involved for this type of service.
Once you have received an estimate or you have made the decision to go ahead without the estimate, it is always a good idea to ask the jewelry repair expert if the issue is common and what is involved to correct the problem. If the watch needs parts, find out if the jeweler stocks these parts or whether the parts are ordered.
Also request that if any additional work is required that you are told about it first to prevent any unnecessary costs or a nasty surprise when you collect the watch and you are presented with an exorbitant bill. In most cases, if a watch repairman that specializes in fine watches is regarded as a highly qualified craftsman, any work that is suggested is usually necessary. It is also important to find out about a timeline for work that will need to be done to the watch.
Watches, especially vintage and fine pieces are one of those areas where the cheapest repair or estimate is not what you should be looking for. The expert craftsman are usually difficult to find, which means they usually charge accordingly. These types of craftsman also have investments in the tools and the parts that they will use to complete their jobs.
- Research The Costs Involved
Certain repairs can become extremely costly, which is usually the case when it comes to repairs on antique pieces. For this reason, it is in your best interests to make sure you are provided with a repair estimate that is accurate before you decide to leave the watch in the hands of a watch repair expert.
- Find Out About The Time Frame Involved For The Repair Work
Certain repairs are done relatively quickly, while others will involve lengthy processes, which might include having to manufacture or order specialized parts.
- Is There A Warranty
Look out for the jewelers that are able to offer you with a minimum of a 1 year warranty on repairs that were completed as well as the parts that were replaced.
Old watches require maintenance in order to prevent a costly breakdown. When taking your fine watch to a jeweler that specializes in watch repairs, ask the repairman about needed maintenance procedures as well as the intervals. This is usually determined on the actual watch type, how old the watch is and how often you use the watch.
Fine watches are similar to automobiles, and will require a quality service from time to time. If you fail to care for your fine watch properly, the seals and gaskets can dry out, which can allow debris or moisture to get inside the watch. Regular maintenance will go along way towards preserving the lifespan of your watch. The majority of fine watches require a service every 3 to 5 years, dependent on how often and where your watch is actually worn.
Disclosure: This article was written by a guest author.
