Hi guys, I have a Speedmaster 3572.50 Hesalite Sandwich, a great watch that I've had for about 5 years... It recently started taking in moisture, so I took it for service to Central Watch, here in NYC. I was amazed when I heard back from them that it would cost $950 + tax to do a full overhaul. Is this a reasonable estimate, and if so, should I go ahead with it (basically is it worth it to service it)? Thanks in advance for the advice. Pictures attached of the watch just before handing it over.

 

I believe that the current cost of an Omega service center full restoration for a chronograph is $750, plus tax. That also comes with a 2 year warranty. Certain replacement parts (eg, a new sapphire crystal) would be invoiced separately.

 

I think we need more details. Usually a service is a flat rate plus parts. Something like $600 plus parts. Did you a breakdown of the costs? I would not be surprised that the total would come to $950. The watch needs the service and it is certainly worth $950.

 

In Austria a full Service for a Speedy from an Omega certified watchmaker is about 350 Euros plus parts. 950 USD seems a little on the upper edge.

Kind regards Max

 

For now, find a hot window sill in your home and sit the watch there for several hours crystal-side up and let the sun get rid of that moisture.

 

Even though it's something like 1/3 the value of the watch? Or am I off on valuation here?
Here's how they broke it down, without being more specific:
* Complete disassembly of all parts of the movement
* Ultrasonic cleaning of movement
* New mainspring
* Replace Worn Movement Parts
* New gaskets
* Ultrasonic clean the case and bracelet (No extra charge)

 

Too much. Omega will do the same thing for $750. You can probably get good recommendations here for independent watchmakers who will do it for less than what Omega will charge. As for the cost of the service vis a vis the value of the watch, keep in mind that Omega is a luxury brand and you’re also talking about a timepiece that will last for generations with proper care and servicing.

 

Yeah, that's kind of what I figured, seems exorbitant for an independent... or are they getting too big for their britches now Hodinkee's all over them?

 

I though Omega just raised service prices?

 

I had my Speedy serviced by Omega in December. As of then, the going rate for a full service for a chronograph was $750. I just checked Omega’s website - still says $750.

 

Yeah, $750 seems to be the going rate. Of course, everything is more expensive in NYC.

If it were me, I’d assume that the watch might require more, as the moisture intrusion could mean more damage.

Also bear in mind that you appear to have a lovely example. That dial and hands are really nice.

Many here would love to have it.

Repair it. I don’t think you’ll regret it.

 

If you send it to Omega, you HAVE to be very specific about what you DON’T want done. For example, they may elect to replace the dial, hands and bezel with service parts and devalue the watch. Make sure that they write down your specific instructions and get a copy for your records before the work is started.

 

Yeah, people here will tell you NOT to send any vintage Omegas back to Omega to service, because they will replace vintage parts and polish the watch, all of which destroys some of the value of it.

 

I paid a bit less than the Omega price at World Time in San Jose. They did a great job!

 

That is a full service with nothing extra. I do believe $750 is what Omega charges. I had an Omega certified independent watchmaker do the same for me several months ago, he charged $550. It was Kelly Hunter at Art of the Watch and was reccomended by folks here. He is in Portland, OR but watches can be mailed from anywhere. I sent mine from California.

 

Those instructions will in now way guarantee that Omega won’t insist on replacing those parts. They will not leave them if they feel they have any chance of the watch coming back under warranty.

 

+1 for being specific on the work order. It would be a shame to have the tritium hands and dial replaced.

But definitely have it serviced with the moisture issue.

 

I think it's too risky to send a tritium watch to Omega.

$950 is way too much for a typical speedy to be serviced.

I use a guy in San Diego, he has serviced several Speedmasters for me. I know not ideal to send a watch in the post, but it's really hard to find a good watchmaker.

 

I wouldn’t pick central

 

Kelly Hunter is first rate.