Expert: Melvin Mills - 7/14/2009

Question
I have a 1907 Hampden Molly Stark model 4 pocket watch that needs to have a hinged cover reattached, new crystal and balance wheel.  Can these be fixed without costing a huge amount? Can you recommend someone?

Answer
Ms. Janet,

There will be two people to get it fixed: a watch maker and a jeweler.

The watchmaker probably has someone he uses for cases.

I don't know what the case is made out of but it could run approximately $100.

The balance is a costly repair.  The crystal is not too bad.

Every watchmaker is going to insist on performing a full service on the watch.  

All told, you are probably looking at 200-400 dollars.  Please remember that I have not seen the watch so i cannot give you a more accurate number.  

Kind regards,

Melvin