I've got four of my Grandfather's old watches. They're in rough shape and I'd like to get them appraised. Has anyone had a good experience with a local watchmaker/jeweler?
Comments
mattzees OP t1_ixx8wj8 wrote
All are from the 1950's. One Longines (poor condition). One Omega Seamaster (runs, but needs service). One Movado Datron (fair condition). One Movado M95 in stainless (poor condition).
Goatpunching t1_ixxmhh7 wrote
Just go to r/watches. Only the omega may be worth something
CharlesJHV t1_ixy9bwc wrote
I was just about to recommend this. They love appraising Grandpa’s fake rolexes from the war
DowninDowntown t1_ixxbkit wrote
By any chance would you know where I may get a watch serviced locally? I have a 1950s triple date moon phase I need some work on
spodinielri0 t1_iy1m25c wrote
I’ve taken several watches to Coward’s for repair. Excellent service, reasonable price
DowninDowntown t1_iy1qair wrote
Do you have a link?! I can’t seem to find them online
spodinielri0 t1_iy1rp2f wrote
sorry! typo/auto correct, Cowardin’s: https://www.cowardin.com/
DowninDowntown t1_iy4obcj wrote
This a wonderful! Thank you for recommendation! I’m going to make a visit this week! I wish they do apprenticeships - I would love to learn the craft
WontArnett t1_ixxbs1c wrote
Google is free, people.
DowninDowntown t1_ixxd8fs wrote
A reddit recommendation is always better than Google
_R_A_ t1_ixxdoew wrote
Especially when it comes to something specialized and complicated like this!
WontArnett t1_ixxecoz wrote
There are reviews on Google that give you recommendations just the same.
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WontArnett t1_ixz2ybv wrote
Reddit Police over here! 👆🏽
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WontArnett t1_ixz3n4n wrote
Good thing I comment to please other people. 🙄
Sometimes people post ridiculous questions they could easily find on Google— I’ve actually had OPs thank me for reminding them to Google sometimes.
If you’re going to criticize me, speak for yourself, not the whole of Reddit.
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WontArnett t1_ixz5i03 wrote
I commented, because I’m hanging out by myself. I’d rather be alone than deal with people like you in real life.
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Repulsive_Trifle_ t1_ixz8kss wrote
Quality. 😂👏
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ImmobilizedbyCheese t1_ixyf85z wrote
Know anything about pocket watches? Schwartzschild hasn't responded to any of my requests. It's from East Germany likely the 20s or 30s. Googling got me nowhere.
WhalerBum t1_ixzpcza wrote
What name is on it? The vast majority of pocket watches are pretty worthless, as they were mass produced and pretty much everyone had them back then.
ImmobilizedbyCheese t1_ixztww8 wrote
It says Gersi. I dont know what to do with it. My parents give me sentimental junk and then think I'll hold onto in my tiny house.
Goatpunching t1_ixztgcn wrote
What are you trying to do? Sell it? The pocket watch market is kind of small and specific. I doubt any local shops would be interested
ImmobilizedbyCheese t1_ixzu2cq wrote
Yeah sell it if anyone is interested. It was my grandfather's but I'm not having kids so I dont know what to do with this sentimental stuff my parents give me.
Goatpunching t1_iy0a8t8 wrote
Google the brand or go on watchrecon.com or watchuseek.com. Post it on r/watches to see what they say
gleepgloopgleepgloop t1_ixxkh49 wrote
Appraised? Nowhere. Fair market value.
David Cooper at Watch & Pen is a good option for refurb/repairs. Does competent work on luxury watches. Call ahead to confirm hours/availability. Clockworks is an option as well but I've had less luck there. Authorized dealers usually mail out, so you can cut out the middle main by mailing your watch to an authorized service center. Or mail it to a reputable repair shop.
I might be interested in the Seamaster if you haven't already received a dozen DMs about it.
Edit: search eBay (completed/sold) and chrono24 to learn about valuation. Of course, a serviced watch with original (or OEM) parts is worth more, stuff like lume and dial refinishing and a quality case polishing/brushing will help. Case material (stainless steel, 14k yellow gold, etc.) Makes a huge difference. So valuation varies immensely and is often more about who wants it when than a set intrinsic value. Best wishes!
bikesnob t1_iy0o5w3 wrote
I've had a bad experience with Watch and Pen repairs on a vintage Rolex Bubbleback. Dean Sarnelle from Once Upon a Time in Staunton is my Rolex go-to. He does amazing case/movement work and has a treasure trove of old Rolex parts.
Rolex refuses to work on 15XX movements but Dean had a stockpile of them. He also employs Lititz trained watchmakers.
gleepgloopgleepgloop t1_iy0w9ut wrote
I appreciate hearing that. He was helpful in taking a look at a vintage quartz for me once, although in the end he couldn't fix it. The problem I ran into was finding parking and catching him when he was actually in his store.
CRothg t1_ixxivf8 wrote
I’ve not been personally, but I’ve heard good things about Watch and Pen downtown.
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WhalerBum t1_ixx8ej6 wrote
What brand names on the watch faces ? Private message me I might be able to help.