Is it feasible to upgrade a standard grade version of this movement to top/chronometer grade? Is a movement replacement generally looked down upon? Thanks!

 

If you don't mind paying for the top grade then go for it. Otherwise, standard grade is capable of keeping good time with a little regulation tweaking. Most run of the mill Swiss watches have 2824-2 in it so an upgraded movement is a good thing and not look down upon IMO.

 

Not easily, as it would require some work. There's no physical difference between Top and Chronometer grade - only that one has gone through COSC testing and is numbered, and the Top version has not.

Going from Standard grade (lowest version) to Top grade would require replacing the mainspring, pallet fork, and the entire balance complete. None of these are particularly daunting to change for any watchmaker, but will cost you some money. The last one is not as easily done - changing the shock protection on the balance from Etachocs to Incabloc. This would require pressing out the entire shock absorber setting and replacing with the alternate version. Not too bad on the main plate, but on the balance cock it gets fiddly with the regulator and stud carrier being part of that assembly Actually if you want the full conversion you would have to change the fine regulator as well, so better off to replace the entire balance cock at that point..

Unless you are skilled and have all the proper tools for this work (would be a substantial investment with the right tools) I would suggest sourcing a Top grade movement and making an entire movement swap - it would be cheaper certainly than paying someone to do this modification for you.

Of course saying this I have no idea what watch you are considering this for or what your intent is, so just commenting on the technical side of things...

Cheers, Al