Vintage Watch Repair & Restoration

Vintage watches are more than just timekeeping devices; they are often treasured timepieces that encapsulate history, craftsmanship, and personal memories. At OBR Horology, we specialize in vintage watch restoration, a meticulous process that breathes new life into your cherished timepieces while preserving their unique character and historical significance.

Inspection of the watch

The restoration process begins with a thorough inspection of your vintage watch. Our experts carefully assess the condition of all components, including the movement, case, dial, hands, and bracelet. This detailed evaluation helps us identify any issues and determine the scope of the restoration work needed. We document the watch's current state and discuss with you the best approach to achieve the desired results while maintaining the watch's authenticity.

Movement overhaul

The heart of any watch is its movement, and vintage watches often require special attention to ensure they function accurately. Our watchmakers disassemble the movement, meticulously clean each component, and replace any worn or damaged parts. We use period-correct parts whenever possible to preserve the originality of your timepiece. After reassembling the movement, we carefully regulate it to ensure precise timekeeping.

Case Restoration: We clean, polish, and refinish the case, removing scratches and restoring its original luster. For cases with significant damage, we use advanced techniques to repair dents and other imperfections while maintaining the integrity of the material. This service is only done when asked for by the customer. Both the pros and cons are discussed around this.

Dial Restoration: The dial is a crucial element of your watch's aesthetic. Our experts can clean, refinish, or restore the dial, addressing issues like discoloration, flaking, or damage to markers and numerals. In cases where the dial is too deteriorated to restore, we offer re-dialing services to create a faithful reproduction. This service is only done when asked for by the customer. Both the pros and cons are discussed around this.

Hands and crystal replacement

Vintage watch hands are often delicate and can become corroded or damaged over time. We carefully restore or replace the hands, ensuring they match the original design. The watch crystal, which protects the dial, is also a key component. We can polish minor scratches or replace the crystal with a period-appropriate alternative if it is significantly damaged.

Bracelet and Strap Refurbishment

The bracelet or strap of your vintage watch is an essential part of its overall appearance and comfort. We clean and restore metal bracelets, removing scratches and refurbishing links. For leather straps, we offer replacement with high-quality options that match the style of your vintage timepiece.

If you would like to send us a watch for repair please send an email at repairs@obrhorology.com.au. We are happy to discuss your needs, organise to inspect the watch and give you a quotation on any repairs or servicing.

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