What people say after collecting their watches

The challenge

The watch had been in a drawer for roughly fifteen years after stopping. The movement had dried oils throughout, several jewels showed debris, and the dial had developed minor surface foxing. The owner wanted it wearable again but was anxious about losing the watch's aged character in the process.

The approach

The programme began with a full strip-down and photographic record of each component. The owner approved all replacement parts before they were fitted — two worn jewel settings and a mainspring were replaced, the rest cleaned. The dial conservation involved only dust removal and consolidation of the foxed area, leaving the patina otherwise untouched.

The result

The watch was returned running within +4 seconds per day. The dial retained its aged character, the foxed area was stabilised, and the case was polished only on the lugs where wear had been most visible. Delivery included a seven-page service record. Timeline: six weeks.

The challenge

The owner used this watch regularly for recreational diving. After a session at around 20 metres, condensation appeared under the crystal — a sign the crown tube seal was compromised. Initial examination also showed the case threads were partially corroded, complicating what might otherwise have been a simple replacement.

The approach

Thread cleaning was agreed with the owner before proceeding. The corroded section was treated, the tube fitted with correct torque, and a new gasket sized properly for the case. Post-fit visual check confirmed good alignment. The owner was kept informed throughout, including an update when the thread work took longer than initially estimated.

The result

The watch returned to its original water-resistance specification. Final cost was slightly above the original estimate due to the thread work, which had been agreed upfront. The owner has since used it for several dives without further issues. Timeline: four days total.

The challenge

The minute hand was slightly bent, causing it to graze the dial surface on each rotation. The lume on the hour hand was chipped and discoloured. The owner had seen shops in Kuala Lumpur who wanted to refinish the dial completely — she wanted a more conservative approach that kept the watch looking its age.

The approach

The minute hand was removed and carefully straightened without removing its finish. The lume on the hour hand was re-applied with a period-appropriate material after agreement from the owner. Dust was removed from the dial surface with a soft brush — no solvents. The other two hands were left as-found, the owner having agreed they were acceptable.

The result

The grazing was resolved. The renewed lume on the hour hand blends well with the watch's overall appearance. Before and after photographs were shared and are now part of the watch's informal history. The dial surface was not touched beyond cleaning. Timeline: three days.