Panerai Part Availability?

[George Ab]

I had a nightmare situation with Jeager LeCoultre and after which I try to perform some brand homework before purchasing. The background is JLC will only sell their parts to JLC authorized watchmakers. At least with Rolex you may have to turn in the old part, but at least you can obtain the part. Since I was forced to go to JLC the repair quote came in at $2,700. JLC added in the quote it was all (case replacement) or nothing. I was able to obtain the part and get the watch service for $550 from a competent watchmaker.

My question is part availability from Panerai. I understand the movement would not be an issue, but I’m talking about unique Panerai parts such as crown stems and the like. Does anyone have any experience in this area?

[George Ab]

I received an answer from this post at another forum. The answer provided “Parts are only available through PASC or an authorized repair center and are only replaced not sold out for someone else to work on...”

This is my take on Panerai's policy:

Thank you. It’s good to know the rules before you go in.

I concur and expect manufactures to protect my investment by selling parts to watchmakers (not the general public) on a replacement only basis. However, I do take issue with only selling parts to authorized dealers. The decision to sell to only authorized service centers could be influenced by the revenue stream of forcing repairs to go through the manufacture’s own service center.

I am not talking about selling parts on a replacement basis to the public, but selling parts on a replacement basis to competent watchmakers. For example, the guy I use who works out of a Jewelry store has competed a certified program such as the Watchmakers of Switzerland Training and Educational Program (WOSTEP) (Associates degree in matchmaking). I prefer to support my local watchmaker, allowing me talk directly to my watchmaker rather than send the watch away in the mail and wait for a letter. I bring this issue up with manufacture reps at shows as I like to know where they stand on the issue.

Will this information cause me to not purchase a Panarai? No, but it is an influence, and like I say it is good to know the rules before you go in. It is not a real issue as the model I’m looking at does not use an in-house movement.

Thanks again for the information.

Regards,
George

PS:

Just called RGM and they service Panarai. That is all I needed to know. I have had only good experiences with them, and deeply appreciate them helping me out with my JLC. Thanks Roland!

George