Hey all,

So in a cleaning spree my mother-in-law found my wife’s old Swatch from when she was a kid. Sent it to us, of course it wasn’t working so I thought I’d be the hero and order a new battery and strap... well, battery swap didn’t do it and that’s about the extent of my knowledge!

All moves freely, cleaned the connector and battery compartment - any other thoughts? My wife doesn’t usually get this excited about watches so I was hopeful!

 

Swatch made these so they are virtually not repairable. Some folks report that they have serviced them. Let’s hope one of them reads your message. Expect a repair to be 3 or 4 tomes the cost of the watch when new. Or more.

 

Thanks, yeah that was my thought. Don’t think it’s worth getting serviced, sadly, even for the memories.

Though if I could use this to get free reign on my own future purchases...!!!

 

They will eventually crap out, they weren't meant to last forever.

 

The watch collecting gods smiled down from mount internet and spoketh “Go forth and spend freely”. And it was good.

 

Search eBay for same watch in better condition, claim you fixed hers and cleaned it up. Everyone will think you are a genius.

 

Oh I like the way you think!

 

Another problem with these is that the case becomes brittle over time. Trying to put a new strap on it may result in you breaking the lug tabs.

 

Appreciate all the help! As brilliantly instructed by @wagudc I found one on Ebay for $30 in great shape with the original case! On it's way now (I will likely fess up and not pass it off as my handy work... LIKELY... though will most definitely use it in future negotiations!)

 

For sure you have to be honest with your wife, but I would at least give it a few seconds. "I fixed your watched and polished it up with a little polywatch . . . OK, just kidding. I found one on EBay".