zOwie Omega Discussion Forum

: I'm packaging up my Seamaster America's Cup
: chronograph, getting it ready to send in for
: repairs. I'm worried. It has worked fine for
: 4 years or so. Last week, I set it on the
: dresser before bed, working fine, then
: reached for it in the morning - it sounded
: like a box of rocks! Clearly, something
: sprung overnight, as it sounds/feels like
: every internal piece has come loose! There's
: definitely a ball bearing (for lack of a
: better term) loose and it's freely spinning
: around the circumference behind the face.
: I've heard this is something of a complex
: movement - any thoughts on how bad this
: might be? It's out of warranty, too.
: Thoughts on repair costs from Omega? Any
: comments appreciated. Thanks.

Since your watch is four years old, I'm 99% certain that Omega is going to recommend a full servicing on the watch when they receive it, since automatics generally need to be serviced every 4-6 years. If any of the problems are related to normal wear and tear, the parts will be replaced as part of the routine servicing. This costs about $350 when done at Omega headquarters in Bienne, but it's about $450 when done at an authorized US service center.

If you receive an estimate that seems outrageously high, post the details here. Your watch contains the Piguet-based 3303 movement, which has a history of problems that Omega is aware of. Omega has so far agreed to fix any 3303 defects free of charge even after the warranty has expired, so I suspect they will take care of your watch and charge you for only the routine servicing.

One additional point - I would NOT send this watch to Omega USA under any circumstances. They have a very spotty track record, and the 3303 is a very complicated movement. I would only trust Omega's top watchmakers in Bienne with this watch.

Good luck to you,
John