Pitfitter446
·Thanks Jkbenn02,seems even the AD didn't know this about the indices, guess I'll just need to wait for a new face to turn up for sale sometime.
J Jkbenn02Hopefully you guys don't get tired of me just posting pics but here is one after a restoration that is shipping back to the owner tomorrow. The owner spec'd a solid link oyster bracelet to be installed as well:
Before pic included.(I don't know where the rest of my before pics disappeared to so I only have a partial shot).
J Jkbenn02Full-size two-tone (980.020) in for a complete overhaul. Stay tuned for the after pics...
Very interesting thread, guys. Another well used 980.020 here, J, 1986 model or thereabouts, daily wearer in UK since new. Sadly, crown threads now totally US and watch restricted to dry duties only. I did post here last year on 1000 series thread, photo attached, although is less tatty than photo indicates! Did subsequently contact TH but not especially helpful. Watch went for a full service back at TG at 15 yrs old but not impressed; had to be returned twice, until finally sorted. Only new batteries since then and still runs perfectly. Thing is, don't want a full refurb, just crown threads sorting, plus any gaskets, seals, lube etc that needs doing - the face, worn bezel, bracelet scratches all part of character of my watch -"Trigger's Broom" and all that! Your enthusiasm and expertise very reassuring but slightly worried about sticking it in an envelope and sending off to unknown US address! If you need any more pictures, let me know but I guess you know exactly what is required. Just not sure I am confident to send it off for repair, least of all back to TH after what happened last time...but I would like to get the crown to screw in securely to any avoid moisture getting in, long term. Any comments and advice welcome. Andy
J Jkbenn02I have only seen one person get something reposted and it was in DLC. It's was Stewart's Autavia and it was about $1000. This work was done by Jack at IWW if I recall correctly.
I've written to Jack on a few occasions about coatings and he didn't seem interested in doing the 1000s. I can only assume that at the pr Due point he charges it really isn't worth the expense. $1000 coating on a $500-1000 watch...it would be hard to find a buyer for that service.
SteveP was working with a British company to see about the possibilities of watch coatings but I believe that was also prohibitively expensive as well.
Most potential customers are starting with a higher end watch such as a Rolex or Panerai and at that point it makes sense.
I've had a couple watches Cerakoted (ceramic coated) by Motor City Watchworks in Detroit. That is a spray on and bake coating but bracelets aren't something they do because (I'm assuming) that soraying the entirety of a bracelet just doesn't work with this process. It's not full immersion like a vapor deposited coating such as PVD or DLC.
That's what makes finding an excellent example of a Pvd Heuer so special. They just didn't have a durable coating process back in the early 80's that could stand the test of time and rigors of daily wrist use. When they pop up they command stiff prices and once wear is present the prices essentially fall off a cliff. For example 980.026s in mint condition sell for ~$1k or more with the full kit but if it has some wear you can halve the price.
Good hunting out their folks. They do exist.
J Jkbenn02I have only seen one person get something reposted and it was in DLC. It's was Stewart's Autavia and it was about $1000. This work was done by Jack at IWW if I recall correctly.
SteveP was working with a British company to see about the possibilities of watch coatings but I believe that was also prohibitively expensive as well.