Hi there, I'm doing a favour for a work colleague. Whom has brought in for me to look at his Dad's watch. Firstly I think this looks genuine. Only odd thing for me is the crown? Can anyone confirm this and the model and age? Unfortunately I am unable to open the case back! Does it require case back knife? I've tried the rubber ball thingy! Finally, i understand he took it into a jeweller whom said it is not worth fixing! I can see the 2nd hand doesnt move around but date wheel ok. I'm assuming perhaps the cost of repair might be more than the watch is worth. Any thoughts of best way to resolve? Many thanks for your help. Cheers Andy
Yes, the cost of repair will be more than the market value of the watch. But if it has sentimental value to your friend, then he should have it fixed. By a watchmaker, not a jeweler, who can install a correct crown at the same time.
Not so sure the crown is wrong. Didn't some of these come with second/minute adjustment via a pushbutton mechanism in the middle of the crown? Hard to tell from the photo though. Maybe whoever you took it to didn't know that. Have a look at the third post on this thread. If the battery is dead, then I suggest you get that replaced, which should be a very low cost. Then if you still can't get all the settings to work, you are looking at specialist service/repairs.
That photo tends to confirm my suspicions. There is very little more can be done without removing the caseback and seeing what the condition of the movement is. I suspect it's a snapback that can be removed with a suitable tool and replaced fairly simply. While it's off, you can take a note of what is written on the inside of the caseback, the movement reference and also find see any obvious signs of corrosion/battery leakage. Normally, and quite rightly, members will steer you away from the mall watch guys, but in this instance, it's probably going to be the lowest cost option for getting the back removed/replaced and battery replacement. Given that the market value of the watch is not high, you may want to consider this option. Be aware that if there is a good chance that any gasket between the caseback and the case will not be replaced with a new one so any water resistance the watch still has might be compromised to a degree.
Hi thank you-- just another go and i've opened the case back! Kind of obvious why not working -- no battery!! The movement looks quite clean to me. I'm not sure what battery would fit- any ideas?
Look like you have a 1342 movement. They were originally fitted with a slightly unusually sized mercury battery. There is no exact silver oxide replacement though I believe a 329 battery with a plastic spacer works. Not sure if your example has a spacer in place or not. There is some information out there if you look. Here is one instance where it's discussed.
Perfect thanks for helping. It would be really nice if i can get this one going to again for my work colleague's Dad
