Service Detail: Vintage Restoration
Breathing new life into horological heirlooms with respect for their history.
The Art of Preservation
Vintage restoration is a delicate dance between mechanical revival and historical preservation. Unlike a standard service, our goal is not to make a vintage watch look brand new, but to stabilize it, restore its function, and honor the patina and character it has acquired over decades. This requires a deep understanding of historical watchmaking techniques and access to rare or custom-fabricated parts.
Each restoration project is a unique journey into the past, treated with the reverence it deserves.
Our Archival Restoration Process
Historical Research
We begin by researching the timepiece's movement, reference number, and production era to understand its original specifications and common issues.
Sympathetic Deconstruction
The watch is carefully disassembled using period-appropriate tools to prevent any damage to aged or delicate components like blued steel screws.
Component Triage
Each part is assessed. We prioritize repairing original components over replacement to maintain the watch's authenticity and value.
Artisanal Repair
If parts are unavailable, our specialists use traditional lathes and tools to fabricate new components to the exact original specifications.
Conservative Cleaning
Gentle, specialized cleaning methods are used to remove harmful debris without stripping the desirable patina from dials and hands.
Period-Accurate Calibration
The movement is regulated to perform as accurately as possible for its age and design, respecting its original mechanical limitations.
Final Documentation
Upon completion, you receive a detailed record of the work performed and a photographic archive of the restoration process.
Why Restore a Vintage Timepiece?
Preserve Family Legacy
Ensure a cherished family heirloom can be passed down and enjoyed by future generations.
Increase & Protect Value
A professional, sympathetic restoration can significantly increase a vintage watch's market value.
Ensure Safe Wearability
Restores mechanical integrity, allowing you to wear and enjoy your vintage piece with confidence.
Maintain Originality
Our focus on repair over replacement helps maintain the watch's all-important originality.
Vintage-Specific Questions
While we can, our philosophy is to preserve the watch's history. Aggressive polishing and dial replacement can decrease a vintage piece's value. We will consult with you to decide on the perfect balance between cosmetic improvement and historical preservation.
We offer expert dial restoration services, which involve carefully removing the old finish, repairing the dial plate, and re-applying the text and markers exactly as they were originally. This is a highly specialized process that can save a dial that might otherwise be discarded.
Due to the complexities of research, sourcing rare parts, or fabricating new ones, a vintage restoration project can take anywhere from 3 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for exceptionally rare or complicated timepieces. We provide regular updates throughout the process.
