If you can get a watchmaker to so a simple 3-hand for £80, you're doing well!

Setting aside the fact that many watchmakers are finding it increasingly difficult to source parts as the big companies restrict flow and insist customers send the watches to them (!), whether and how often vintage watches should be serviced is a bone if contention. Every three years seems excessive to me. Even every five, as recommended by many, seems too frequent to me. When I get a new vintage (now there's an interesting paradox ;-)) which I intend on wearing, I will always have it serviced. On the other hand, if it then keeps running within decent specs, I won't have it done again until there is a particular reason - plexi, reserve etc. I have had a heuer Autavia for fifteen years that I have worn a lot, which keeps perfect time and has NEVER been serviced. I have decided to wait until something needs doing and will then take my medicine. Can it be more expensive than regular services in the meantime?

Difficult one. But three to five years ! Nope.

: Thanks Dean- I wonder if a Dato with more moving parts would even
: more expensive than a Normal Chrono to service. I do appreciate
: your time and reply .
: Also did your repair guy indicate how often these vintage Heuers
: should be serviced. The chap Im talking to says every 3 years
: which for me with some 20 pieces in my collection would be a
: nice earner for him