Went to SWISS TIME SERVICES this afternoon after work. It's literally 10 minutes from my house!! Great place.
They have some cabinets of über rare pieces including a pristine 1930's marine. I asked if it was for sale, but it was from the owners private collection!

Took my 353 Waffle Seamaster..Just because I was wearing it..I wanted to get an estimate for their services...I have to say it was rather more expensive that I had anticipated..to most of you guys its probably normal but I was a bit shocked to be honest..

Although to be fair they do replace the crown and crystal with genuine omega parts and also polish the case a little. And strip the whole mechanism..So, I guess you're in safe hands..

The gentleman opened my watch to estimate and said the screws were still shiny and bumper rotor was straight and didn't have any wobble which was good. Apparently. It was just a little dirty..

Luckily it doesn't really need a service!



Here's the estimate:



Not far off the price of the watch!

 

Yup! 350 Sterling! I remained composed

 

I know, right?! For that I'd expect them to replace the movement or add a few diamonds to the dial..But they did offer me tea..How very English..

 

I HATE this VAT...It stings me every time

 

Thinking of sending some of mine to Christian the watch guy..

 

Yes, and it's all about the dynamics of a place..badoom-Ching!

 

So send all of your watches to me first and ill 'drop' them off for ya...*hehe*

 

Don't be too hard on ye self...It's not the most class joint in town..but it does the trick! Great if you wanna read through copious amounts of Omega material..journey through time..1001 watches..omega designs..I literally got my education in half an hour!

 

Did I mention they have tea? :-B

 

They should serve hard liquor. It would ease the shock.

 

I've used them quite a few times and so far have always been impressed.
I have tried plenty of independent services at around £150 stirling but they don't include new crystal, seals, pushers, crown and case refinish (if wanted) and they don't always guarantee their work for 2 years or its watertightness to original spec. All of which STS do. They also understand vintage Omegas and will do as little or as much work as you require.
I would also guess that having your Omega serviced by Omega agents STS might increase the value of your watch slightly, whereas a non Omega service will make little difference.