Question about servicing?

[Louscamaro91]

Good day TRF,

Being a member here is really awesome. Getting to interact with folks from all over the globe really is a privilege! I'm no rookie to the forum scene, this one has to be by far the most informative that I've taken part in. Really good gig going on here:-)

I have a question about the service of automatic watches. I'm relatively new to the world of "high-end" watches and having to send my first watch in for servicing was a little worrisome($8000 watch in the mail, eek)...

I've spoken with lots of watchmakers and have heard lots of contradicting claims as to when to service your watch. Some say, 'only service when the watch stops' others say every 5 years or so. One thing to note, I don't keep my watches in a winder, I have far too many and don't want to have 6 winders floating around the house. (I'm sure this is not good for the watches, recommendations?)

I have enough watches now, that it might be time to start a good relationship with a local watchmaker, my only issue is the cost variance between some. None are really authorized rolex repair dealer, rather a watch repair shop.

There is one authorized Rolex repair watchmaker, but he charges the same , if not more than what Rolex would charge. I was taken back when I asked what his fee was to service an Omega seamaster. He quoted me $150 over what omega would have charged. I realize that I'm not going to find a bargain(you get what you pay for) I'm wanting to find someone with that I can trust to do a good job and not rip me off. I'm not going to be a "one time customer".

So, what do you guys think? How do you go about getting your watch serviced?
Do you go through a smaller, local watchmaker or do you send it back to the Manufacturer? Would you bite the bullet and pay the $150 extra to "get your feet in the door" or just always send to the manufacturer?


Thanks in advance:-)