Service question

[mds730]

As you guys are the experts with Patek watches, I wanted to ask a question regarding service intervals. I am seriously considering a 5146 from a TRF trusted seller that appears to be about 5 years old per the authenticity papers. I really don't want to turn right around and send it in for service just after I get it. From what I read, Patek suggests service every 3 to 5 years or the watch can require substantial maintenance if it is not done.

Do you guys have any experience with this time table. If the watch is in excellent condition, as described, would it be ok to wait a year or so and then send it in. I hate to purchase a watch I've wanted for much of my adult life just to turn around and send it off for six months or longer. Opinions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[incontrol]

If it is running great, I would not service it. They do recommend 3 - 5 year intervals, but would wait until it seemed to have some minor issues. I may not have mine serviced till much longer than 5 years.

[kunlun]

As a watchmaker who handles PP and other high end watches with great skill told me: "If it ain't broke...don't fix it."

[Passionata]

Originally Posted by kunlun

As a watchmaker who handles PP and other high end watches with great skill told me: "If it ain't broke...don't fix it."

My watchmaker who is the head of the local RSC replied to that as the dumbest thing an owner can do.

[PJ S]

The watch may be 5 years old, but the wear on the parts may constitute less than a year’s worth of daily wearing.
Like every manufacturer, Patek is recommending a timeframe based on daily usage rather than occasional, and given the synthetic oils and grease now used, 5 years is nothing.

On that basis, even if you only wear it 2-3 times a week, you’ll be fine to leave it for another 3 years, at least.
Easiest thing you can do is check timekeeping (slightly more tricky with Pateks given the lack of seconds hacking!) and test the power reserve to monitor any change in performance.
I suspect you’ll find the numbers stay consistent during that period, so a service may really be a peace of mind thing for you, rather than actually required.

[mds730]

Thanks for the replies. I really appreciate the information. I certainly feel much more at ease about the purchase after reading these.
Thank you.

[masyv6]

Originally Posted by Passionata

My watchmaker who is the head of the local RSC replied to that as the dumbest thing an owner can do.

This debate again

[JorgeCCW]

is not a deal breaker, if runs well i don't see the problem. You can have a brand new watch and have issues, you know?. But its also true that you shop around and find another one that is newer, the price won't be too much different , believe me it won't

[Moloch]

Waiting a year or two won't be a problem. I would be worried if you waited more than that. But make sure to check the water resistance every year. Humidity of Houston aren't good for watches :)

[soundserious]

Bizarrely an older watch may have a more reliable movement. Get it.

[lapince]

Originally Posted by JorgeCCW

is not a deal breaker, if runs well i don't see the problem. You can have a brand new watch and have issues, you know?. But its also true that you shop around and find another one that is newer, the price won't be too much different , believe me it won't

I agree, I think for a few hundred more you can have one which is 1-2 years, I would try to go for that, getting a watch which is 5 years old sure if the price reflects it, on 5711's the difference isn't worth it, better get as new as possible

[martinr]

Originally Posted by soundserious

Bizarrely an older watch may have a more reliable movement. Get it.

I kind of agree with this. Will still need service though.

[AK797]

Let the next gen worry about the wait times.

[mds730]

I like the next generation response. Goes well with Patek ads and saves me a bunch of money. I've looked a lot and have not found anything close to this in price. I really appreciate all the responses. If I have not waited too long, I think I'm ready to get the deal done. I feel comfortable with all your responses. Thank you.

[waspy1]

I'm usually pretty relaxed about service intervals but I've just had fogging on the crystal of my 3.5 year old 5711. This could cost a fortune if the movement, hands and dial are damaged. At least a service will renew gaskets which have aged.


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[enjoythemusic]

Rolex suggests every 10 years, yet have to agree the newer Patek Philippe mechanical timepieces seem to be less reliable than the older models.