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Can you recommend a vintage repair shop in France or UK?

  1. homebrw Jan 2, 2016

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    For my 1967 321 Speedy...
    1st goal is a proven track record of quality service with no replacement or polishing of external parts.

    I live in France, but language wise, I guess it would be easier if I sent it to the UK. If not, I guess I could live without her for 6 months until we repatriate to the USA.

    2 known issues:
    Chrono second hand doesn't reset to 0.
    Crown and stem has pulled out.

    Thanks in advance.
    Chris
     
  2. efauser I ♥ karma!!! Jan 2, 2016

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    I would recommend using the site's search function. I know this question has been asked a lot and there are always recommendations.
     
  3. oddboy Zero to Grail+2998 In Six Months Jan 2, 2016

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  4. homebrw Jan 2, 2016

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    Thanks. I did. I looked through about 30 threads. I did get one lead, but it's a bit older, and it wasn't for a vintage watch. Granted, I'm not the best searcher, and after 30 mins of mostly non related reading (but still very interesting) I thought I'd ask the question directly, freshly. I'd know where to go in USA.

    Chris
     
  5. TIMSTAR Jan 2, 2016

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    Sure,
    try STS
    these guys are doing a fantastic job.
    it is swisstimeservices.co.uk
     
    davidswiss likes this.
  6. efauser I ♥ karma!!! Jan 2, 2016

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    Didn't mean to come across as a smart ass. I know there's a question about service in the UK or EU once a week. Of course, I can't find a single one, either.
     
  7. Ludi Jan 2, 2016

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    @homebrw I second that ... Rob is my watchmaker, highly recommended :thumbsup:

    Use the french postal VD (valeur déclarée) system to send your watch. Don't hesitate to ask Rob for further details ;)
     
  8. Davidt Jan 2, 2016

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    I'm in the UK and use either watchguy.co.uk or STS.

    For 321 Speedy work, I tend to go to STS due to parts availability.
     
  9. homebrw Jan 2, 2016

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    Thanks guys. STS is who I was trying to remember.

    @Ludi...with the VD system I would be able to declare it at $6k and it's insured? Feel free to take this part offline. Thanks again for help.
    Chris
     
  10. Stewart H Honorary NJ Resident Jan 2, 2016

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    The only thing I would say is that if you are moving back to the states in 6 months, double (and triple) check that whoever you use can turn it round before you go. The watchmaker who's talents I employ on my El Primeros currently takes 8 to 10 months.
     
  11. Ludi Jan 2, 2016

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    Yep, the safest way to ship watches and jewellery within the country.... fully insured up to 5000€.

    Be sure to use this kind of enveloppe though : https://pro.boutique.laposte.fr/tim...eloppe-securisee-pour-valeur-declaree/p/14467

    Hope it helps ;)
     
  12. Horlogerie EU based Professional Watchmaker Jan 3, 2016

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    Hi Chris,

    I sent you a PM.

    I am in France and can help with your servicing. Unless I need parts that have long lead times, the turn time would be a few weeks at best, not months.

    Let me know if I can help.

    Rob MBHI
     
  13. stef2010 Prolific Speedmaster Hoarder Jan 3, 2016

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  14. SCARRION Jan 4, 2016

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    hello
    i am french.
    one of the most recommanded watchmaker on the french " forum a montre " for vintage omegas is Alain Delepine in Amboise : http://www.horloger-reparateur.com/. very sympathetic and good experience on 321 omegas.

    i also also had good experience with "la vieille pendule " in pontoise close to Paris : https://www.ville-pontoise.fr/content/a-vieille-pendule

    a well known in Paris is Antoine de Macedo ( no personal experience with him ). http://adm-horloger.com/fr/

    hope this may help you.

    Stephane
     
    Edited Jan 4, 2016
  15. homebrw Jan 15, 2016

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  16. homebrw Jan 15, 2016

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    Merci Stephane et tous. Thanks everyone. She's off to a French shop and I'll report back after she comes back, but I have high trust based on his activities here. I can't wait. Miss her already.

    Chris
     
  17. Thy Jan 17, 2016

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    Je peux aussi te recommander mon horloger.
    Il est basé à Nismes en Belgique à la frontière française. Il n'y en a qu'un.
    Un horloger à l'ancienne formé à l'IATA, pas de site internet, mais avec des tarifs doux...
    Pas être pressé, il a du boulot :)
     
    Edited Jan 17, 2016
  18. homebrw Apr 20, 2016

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    Hello all.

    I am "en retard" in posting this follow-up, but I really feel strongly the need to do so in case anyone else is looking.

    I sent my 321 cal Speedy and my wife's Datejust to Rob (Horlogerie on OF) , and I have nothing but good things to say about his service!

    Most of all I appreciate the emails, photos and feedback at each stage of the process. His and Jennifer's communication is above reproach. From what I see in some other threads, his turn-around time seems to be amongst the best too. Customer service in France is oft maligned, but I can say Rob's customer service is as good as any in the world.

    For such impeccable service, I feel his pricing is right on the money too. I'm not affiliated with www.roberthoran.eu , just a 110% satisfied customer.

    It's not often I write reviews, but in this case, it is warranted.

    Thanks everyone for the recommendations and offers.

    Chris
     
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