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  1. Tim J Jun 29, 2019

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    So, I took my late 1950's Omega Seamaster Cal. 500 into a highly rated jeweler/watch repairer for a full service estimate. The number I got back was $495. Does that seem a bit steep to anyone or does it seem about right? Thanks! image1.jpeg image3.jpeg
     
  2. Toishome Jun 29, 2019

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    Between $400 to $500 for an automatic like this watch is the going rate for a decent watchmaker. Parts, of course, would be extra. To clarify this is from my experience in Toronto, Canada.
     
    Edited Jun 29, 2019
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  3. S.H. Jun 29, 2019

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    Nobody can say anything about the price, without 1) knowing more about the movement (is some heavy work involved, costly parts to be found, etc...) and 2) knowing the location (downtown NY or Paris? outskirts of Bagdad?).

    For example, 500 for a basic service (movement in good shape, no repairs) is twice the going price in my location. This won't be of any use to you...
     
  4. Dan S Jun 29, 2019

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    Depends what work is needed.
     
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  5. Tim J Jun 29, 2019

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    Thank you guys for the information!
     
  6. Jerseyhammer Jun 29, 2019

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    Sounds about right to me. Our local Service guy charges £350
     
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  7. Tim J Jun 29, 2019

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    Thanks for the information!
     
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  8. mmrols Jun 29, 2019

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    Thats about right for a skilled reputable watchmaker in my view
     
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  9. Tim J Jun 29, 2019

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    Thanks, I appreciate the information!
     
  10. Davidt Jun 29, 2019

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    More than the price, do some research to ensure they're sympathetic to vintage watches.

    That price is ok if they do a good job. You don't want to be paying that for a hack job or someone who ruins the history/character of it.
     
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  11. Tim J Jun 29, 2019

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    Very true. Thanks for the information!
     
  12. STANDY schizophrenic pizza orderer and watch collector Jun 29, 2019

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    Not something I skimp on.

    I pay $50 for someone to service a fishing reel
    39BF430E-A60B-4C75-BA5C-513BF67E8EF8.jpeg
    Looks easy

    CBCB9C14-6A2F-457F-B118-1FF3F581097D.jpeg

    Think again ;)
     
  13. Jerseyhammer Jun 29, 2019

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    That’s very true. No point in going to someone who just changes battery. Our guy is a Rolex and Omega trained ,in his 50’s and has a nice Omega collection himself , plus sell a few vintage watches himself.
     
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  14. JwRosenthal Jun 29, 2019

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    Watchmakers in Baltimore (independent- not through a jewelry store which upcharges on top of the watchmakers rate) is $175-250 for a cleaning- no parts.
    In DC which is a mere 50 miles away, it’s twice that....overhead, market competition, etc I guess.

    Price is no indication of quality of service. References are a must.
     
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  15. Jerseyhammer Jun 29, 2019

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    100% agree
     
  16. Noles_88 Dog costume designer extraordinaire! Jun 29, 2019

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    It’s about right if the movement was a chronograph. My personal opinion it should be much cheaper for this automatic movement. Unless your going with a very high end watchmaker. But a good local guy should be much cheaper than this. If your in Miami. I can help you out.
     
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  17. Tim J Jun 29, 2019

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  18. Tim J Jun 29, 2019

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    Thanks for the information! Unfortunately, I am up here in northern VA...::facepalm2::
     
  19. Tim J Jun 29, 2019

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    Ah, I see. Thanks for the info!
     
  20. BlackTalon This Space for Rent Jun 29, 2019

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    Baltimore is just a short trip up 95. Go visit the aquarium and have dinner in Little Italy to make a nice trip out of it. :cool:
     
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