Antique Pocket Watch Repair........

[Marksman]

I've recently inherited my grandfather's pocket watch and it needs repair, apparently it has been overwound. I've tried jewelers in my area but they charge outrageous prices. Do we have any watchmakers on the forum or can anyone suggest a source for repair? Thanks for your help.

 

[deadin]

I used to repair/rebuild the old pocket watches but time has caught up with me........
Anyway, try to get in contact with any watch collectors in your area, they will normally know of someone in the area that will work on a watch at a much more reasonable price.
(I used to clean, lube, adjust and replace the mainspring for around $25.00 plus any other parts needed. Of course that was over 30 years ago.)
Check around with your gun collector buddies. It seems that many times watch collecting and gun collecting go together.
(Probably has something to do with a fascination of mechanical things.)

 

[Mickey D]

If you don't find anyone here that dabbles in watch repairs, try this Horology forum. There are several members that offer services, many free. Good luck with your heirloom.


Welcome to IHC185™ at www.ihc185.org

 

[Doc Mark]

Hi, Marksman,

I'm a member of the NAWCC (National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors), but my main interest is in 18th century chain-drive pocket watches. However, I do know of a very good watch repairman in Southern California. He usually charges around $100 for a clean, adjust, and return. This all depends on what watch you actually have, how old it is, and if parts are still available for it. If parts must be made by hand, then, or course, the prices go up quite a bit, just as they would for a hand-made gun part. In any case, if you would like to PM me with the information on your watch, and maybe send some photos to me, I will try to help you figure out what you have, when it was made, and what it's worth. That information should help you decide how much you want to spend on getting your Grand Dad's watch repaired. Hope that helps you. Take care, and talk to you soon. God Bless!

Every Good Wish,
Doc

 

[22dec]

Had my fathers Elgin (made about 1925) repaired not too long ago at a shop in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. It cost $150, but the work was guaranteed for one year and was well worth the price to have this watch running again.

Don

 

[pred]

I have an old one that needs repair as well.
Any more folks out there?
Peter

 

[jlrhiner]

I actually have a couple. Before my dad died, he gave them to me and said the "balance staff" was broken in them. One is a Hamilton, one is an Illinois, I'm not sure about the others.

 

[Hunt200]

I have a Watham that needs repair also. Don't want to bring it to a regular jeweler because I would probably get ripped off.

 

[deadin]

said the "balance staff" was broken in them

This is probably the most common cause of stoppage in pocket watches after being just plain in need of cleaning/lubing.