Expert: William J Perkins - 4/8/2009

Question
I purchased a Gruen Semi thin Ultra Quality Art deco style size 12 pocket watch ( the movement number is 754 ,15 jewels,two positions, Gruen Guild ) , I dropped it and it does not run unless you take the back off and hold it at a certain angle. At a certain angle the balance will begin to turn and the watch will run. My questions is , is the staff broken and approx. how much will it cost to fix. Or, is it less expensive to get another 754 movement and swap out the beautiful gold case? Thanks ED

Answer
It sound very much like the staff is broken.  As to the cost to replace, shop around with your local jewelers.  Whether or not the cost would outway results would be entirely up to you.  If the reults pleases, you it would be worth it.  Myself, I would have it repaired.  754 movements are not easy to come by, so I wouldn't give to much though to that option.  Regards WJP