Hi Guys!
I'm Just wondering if anyone could help me out, I’ve had this beauty for about 20 years, but she is pretty battered and bruised... I would love to get her restored to her former glory – but I’m thinking that would cost me more than I could afford!! (any ideas how much)
There is a number on the side 77407 - but is that a batch number rather than a model No?
Done a Quick Google and I think She could be a 2447 N or maybe a Valjoux 72 but im not 100% sure – any help would be awesome!

 

It looks a really nice watch in pretty great shape. Is the crystal cracked or just scratched? If scratched only then I would be recommending a crystal polish and movement service only. If cracked, then it will need to be replaced. However, I would leave the case unpolished (clean only) and keep dial, hands, pushers and crown original if possible - the watch will retain more value like that. I am going to hazard a very rough guess of somewhere between £300 and £500 for the work. Finding a good watchmaker is more important than the price, though. You say you might not be able to afford it, but given the value of the watch I think it would be totally worth it, and you'd have something really special afterwards. What am I saying? You have something really special now!

 

Thanks so much for a quick response imagwi!
I think the Glass is just really badly scratched, though there looks to be an internal crack on its side - highlighted in the below Pic.
Its pretty grubby inside - quite dusty, but I'm assuming that's all the glow paint that's crumbled away.
In your opinion would you just let that be - or look to try restore that?
The outer dial looks off centre - maybe this watch has been opened up before - of could this of somehow slipped in time?

I'll deffo look into getting it cleaned up with a movement service and a crystal Polish, I really want to get this on my wrist!
In terms of a strap - could you recommend anything? or just ebay 'black leather strap'

Also could you hazard a guess on its value?
Sorry - I really am a watch newbie!
And Thanks Again!

 

Hmm, difficult to tell from the picture about the crystal. If there's any damage that is more than cosmetic, it ought to be replaced. I guess a watchmaker needs to advise on that.

The dust is likely to be the lume (glow in the dark material). You definitely need this all cleaned out as it can affect the movement. I'm not sure I'd bother replacing it, certainly on the dial. The hands, though, well possibly, it's a tough call. If the remaining lume is safe and secure and unlikely to fall out then fine, otherwise I think it has to all come out, in which case it's probably worth reluming them.

Hopefully the chapter ring (outer dial) can be easily fixed.

Remember that cost for this will also be affected by what state the movement is in and what parts are needed for the service. You really need to find a good watchmaker. Perhaps tell us where you are and maybe another forum member can make a recommendation?

 

Thanks Again Imagwai.....you've given me some great advise and watch lingo
any idea on its model name? Valjoux 72

I'm In Huddersfield West Yorkshire (near Leeds) if anyone could recommend a nearby & trustworthy watchmaker?

 

Hi Alex, this is a Carrera (as the dial states), model reference 2447 N.

Try looking up Abel Court, who is an expert at restoring vintage Heuers. His prices may be on the high side, but I guarantee you it'd be worth it. You have a very attractive and fairly highly sought-after watch there, though I couldn't tell you the value.
So, here's what to do:
-If you're thinking about selling it, do nothing - put it up on eBay. Unserviced watches do better there, because a buyer then has his or her choice of whether to service, where to service etc.
-If you're thinking about keeping it, service it - and don't worry about monetary value - think about the personal value it's had to you for the 20 years you've owned it; and enjoy wearing a gorgeous, classic chrono!

 

Thanks Abrod520,

I've never warn it, it was my Granddads...
I remember it only had half a broken strap & I never managed to put a new one on - it was placed in a cupboard and forgotten about (till today)
It looks like a bit of a pin has snapped off in a bar hole (probably why it was just put in a cupboard)

I'll deffo get a few quotes as it does hold some sentimental value but if its £400+ to get it half right I'll have a hard time justifying that to the wife lol (so ebay it could be )

Thanks again guys - you've been more than helpful

 

Hi Alex, I'm fairly local, in Leeds.

I've used WatchguyUK several times with great results. It's run by Christian and Mitka who have a blog showing their work.

I'd be tempted to just get the lume on the hands stabilised to prevent further losses, but it could also be replaced and colour matched.

A tube of Polywatch on that crystal would work wonders. Even some toothpaste and elbow grease will improve it in the short term.

 

Thanks So much guys - I'll be sure to check them out!
Not sure how long these things take - but i'll keep you posted

 

Alex, that's a valuable and sought after watch you have right there. Unless you need the money, I wouldn't sell it. Particularly given the connection to your Grandad.

Re getting it serviced, it's critical you find someone who specialises in vintage watches. Abel is the guru by all accounts (never used him myslelf) but last I heard there was a 15 month waiting time. Nic Green is my go to guy, but expect a wait with him too.

As for value, the prices are going up all the time. In today's market I would ask for offers over £4,000.

Good luck

 

I cant recommend Abel court enough, but he is booked out until Mid 2017, and was only taking work from existing customers. Nic Green always gets good reviews, I havent used him personally. Take good care of it, or find it a good new home.

 

Its a very nice watch you should refurb it to make it new again