Expert: Melvin Mills - 3/20/2009

Question
I have an old Elgin Keywind watch that won't run.  I think that it has been wound too tightly.  Any way to fix this?
Do you do that kind of repair?  Cost?

Answer
Kay,

Any watch can be fixed, for the right amount of money.  That is not intended as a joke or a smart Alec remark.  I will explain.

If we assume the watch is only wound too tightly, then it needs to be disassembled, cleaned, reassembled, oiled, and then adjusted for timekeeping.  It does not need any parts.  That is called an overhaul.  In my shop, it is $150.

IF IT NEEDS PARTS, that is when it starts to get pricey.  The sky is the limit because parts may not be available easily.  

I perform a quote on watches for $25.  That means I look over the whole watch and tell you the cost BEFORE starting.  The $25 is included in the cost of the repair if one elects to have the work done.  If not, the $25 covers the quote and the insured return shipping.

The benefit of a quote vs. an estimate is this:  an estimate can change if new things are discovered wrong and a quote is firm.
With a quote, there are no surprises.  

If you would like to send the watch to me, you can send it to:

MWR
20 Manor Lane
Saugerties, NY 12477