Waltham Pocket Watch Repair - Who and Where?

One of the most frequently asked questions is where can I get my Waltham pocket watch repaired? The first question I think you should ask is, should I get my watch fixed? If you want to get your Waltham watch in good working order for sentimental reasons, then I would always go ahead and do that. If however you want to do that to increase the value, then you should have a good think about that.

Should You Get Your Waltham Watch Repaired?

An antique watch that is working is always worth more than one that needs some type of repair. That would make you automatically think that it is a good idea, to get it fixed. The reality is that many of the Waltham watches were produced in their millions and as such, they really don't have a great deal of value. At the lower end of the scale some of these watches sell for well under $50, even if they are working. If they are not working a similar watch will still sell for around $10-30 and can be used for parts.

The most simple repairs will cost anything between $50-100. Therefore unless your watch is worth more than $200-300 I would never invest the money in getting it repaired. That is unless the watch meant a lot to you, and you wanted it to work. In those cases, the investment is worth it to have something special that brings back great memories to you, and that you can then pass down through the family.

Who Repairs Waltham Pocket Watches?

The easiest way to find out is to ring around a few local jewellers and just ask them. The chances are that you will find one, and that way, you can pay them a physical visit. In turn they can see what needs done and give you an accurate quotation.
The main problem you will encounter is parts. If the watch was mass produced, that is really not a problem. However if it is rare, then they can be tough to find. The good news there is that your watch will probably have a great deal more value.

The actual replacement of the parts is not that difficult for someone who is a genuine watch maker. It is however something you should not really try to do yourself. You do need special tools and a good degree of knowledge, before you take on something like replacing a spring, or installing a new winder.

I am ok with doing some basic cleaning and have even replaced broken watch faces, but I shy away from the actual movements as that is the work of experts. Here is a list of some of the known experts:

Girards in Michigan
City Bank Antiques in Kent, Ohio
RGM Watches
Comptons Jewellers in Washington
Olde Town Jewellers Santa Rosa California

As and when I find other reputable Waltham watch repairers, I will add them to this list. If you know of any, please let me know and I will add them here as well.