: I own a Mid-sized Seamaster Chronometer that is
: running slow. I've owned the watch for 7 yrs
: and think it is time to get it serviced. I'm
: wondering where to send my watch. I've heard
: that the service center in NJ has some
: issues, however, sending a watch to Omega
: headquarters can take a long time. Any
: recommendations would be appreciated.
Omega USA has (so far anyway) taken good care of me, though I have only used the newer Secaucus, NJ facility. I will also send them only the more common watches like my Seamasters, since the ETA-based 1120 is a very common movement that they are used to working on. My much more complex 3303 Broad Arrow movement will only be touched by the watchmakers in Bienne, because this is not an easy watch to service.
It all comes down to personal preference. I know there are people who send all of their watches to Bienne, and I can understand that since Bienne does have Omega's top watchmakers. Also, the value of the Swiss Franc can fluctuate and result in your paying less for the Bienne service than you would in the US. You can get current Bienne servicing prices at the link below. Omega USA's estimate on your watch would be $275-$300 based on the latest e-mail I have from them.
Keep in mind that you do get a 2-year warranty on any service Omega performs, so if you send it in to the US service center and you are not happy with their work, you can send it right back. Ditto for Omega Bienne. So, you really have nothing to lose except the time (pun intended) that you will be without your watch.
Good Luck,
John
