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All you need to know about Steven Hale and the world of watches

Benefits of Using SHWR for Watch Repair Services

When it comes to maintaining the value, functionality and beauty of luxury timepieces, choosing the right watch repair service is essential. Steven Hale Watch Restoration (SHWR) has established itself as a trusted name in the watch repair and restoration industry, known for its expertise in servicing high-end brands like Rolex, Omega, Cartier, Hublot, Tag Heuer, Tudor and Zenith. In this article, we will explore the various benefits of choosing SHWR for your watch repair services and why it stands out as a premier destination for watch enthusiasts in the UK.

1. Authorised Service Centre for Luxury Brands

One of the key benefits of using SHWR is its status as an authorised service centre for some of the world’s most prestigious watch brands, including Rolex, Omega, Cartier and more. This means that SHWR’s watchmakers are trained and certified by these manufacturers, ensuring that they adhere to the highest standards of quality and precision. Whether you need a routine service, a complicated repair, or a complete restoration, SHWR can provide a manufacturer-approved service that protects the integrity and value of your watch.

Being an authorised centre also means that SHWR uses only genuine parts when servicing your timepiece. This is critical for maintaining both the functionality and value of luxury watches, as aftermarket parts can diminish the performance and devalue your investment. With SHWR, you can be confident that your watch is in the hands of experts who have access to the same components and tools used by the original manufacturers.

2. Experienced and Accredited Watchmakers

The expertise of SHWR’s watchmakers is one of the primary reasons why the company is trusted by so many luxury watch owners. Each watchmaker at SHWR is accredited by organisations such as Rolex, WOSTEP (Watchmakers of Switzerland Training and Educational Program) and Omega, and has undergone rigorous training to master the art of watchmaking. This high level of accreditation ensures that your watch is handled by professionals who have an in-depth understanding of the unique complexities of each brand’s movement and design.

Moreover, SHWR’s watchmakers are continually updated with the latest techniques and technologies in horology, ensuring that they are equipped to handle even the most sophisticated watch mechanisms. This expertise is particularly important for vintage and limited-edition timepieces that require specialised care to preserve their authenticity.

3. Comprehensive Range of Services

SHWR offers a comprehensive range of watch services, from routine maintenance and battery replacements to complex repairs and full restorations. Here’s a closer look at the services provided:

Servicing and Overhauls: Regular servicing is essential to maintain the accuracy and longevity of your watch. SHWR’s servicing includes disassembly, cleaning, lubrication and recalibration of the movement, ensuring your watch functions as well as when it left the factory.

Repairs and Component Replacements: If your watch has suffered damage, SHWR can repair or replace components using genuine parts. Their expertise covers everything from damaged crowns and bezels to broken escapements and balance wheels.

Vintage Watch Restoration: Vintage watches require special attention to preserve their historical value. SHWR specialises in restoring vintage timepieces to their former glory while retaining as many original parts as possible.

Polishing and Aesthetic Refinishing: Over time, even the most carefully worn watches can show signs of wear. SHWR offers polishing and refinishing services to restore the case and bracelet to a factory-fresh appearance.

Dial and Hand Restoration: SHWR’s watchmakers can restore faded dials and hands, ensuring that vintage and antique watches maintain their original look while remaining legible.

This broad range of services means that whether you need a minor repair or a complete restoration, SHWR has the expertise to meet your needs.

4. Customer-Centric Approach

At SHWR, the customer experience is paramount. From the initial consultation to the final handover, SHWR places a strong emphasis on communication and transparency. They provide detailed reports and quotes before any work is carried out, ensuring that customers are fully aware of what is required and the associated costs. For vintage or complex repairs, SHWR also provides regular updates so that you can follow the progress of your watch’s restoration.

The company also offers convenient services such as free postage packs, allowing customers to send their watches for servicing without leaving their homes. This makes the process of watch repair and maintenance as hassle-free as possible, whether you live locally or are based elsewhere in the UK.

5. Preservation of Watch Value

Luxury watches are not just tools for telling time; they are also investments that can appreciate in value over time. Regular servicing by a reputable service provider like SHWR helps preserve the value of your watch by ensuring that it remains in pristine condition. Proper servicing records from an authorised service centre can significantly enhance the resale value of your watch and provide peace of mind to potential buyers.

Additionally, by using only genuine parts and adhering to manufacturer-approved servicing protocols, SHWR ensures that the integrity of your watch is never compromised. This is particularly important for collectors and enthusiasts who wish to maintain the originality and value of their timepieces.

6. Specialisation in High-Value and Sentimental Timepieces

SHWR has extensive experience working with high-value and sentimental timepieces, making it the go-to service centre for customers who need specialised care for their most cherished watches. Whether it’s a modern luxury watch or a family heirloom passed down through generations, SHWR’s watchmakers have the expertise to handle delicate restorations that preserve the watch’s sentimental and financial value.

For customers who have been turned away by other service centres due to the complexity or age of their watch, SHWR offers a solution. The company has successfully restored numerous vintage and antique watches that were previously deemed irreparable, earning it a reputation as a trusted service provider for even the most challenging watch repairs.

7. Positive Customer Testimonials

One of the best ways to gauge the quality of a service provider is through customer feedback. SHWR has a long list of satisfied customers who praise the company for its professionalism, craftsmanship and attention to detail. Many customers have shared stories of how SHWR restored vintage watches that other service centres could not repair, highlighting SHWR’s expertise and commitment to excellence.

These positive reviews reflect the high standards of service that SHWR upholds and serve as a testament to its reputation as a leading watch repair service provider in the UK.

Conclusion

Choosing a reputable service provider like Steven Hale Watch Restoration (SHWR) for your luxury watch repairs and restorations offers numerous benefits, from maintaining the value and functionality of your watch to ensuring that it receives the highest standard of care. With its status as an authorised service centre, experienced and accredited watchmakers, comprehensive range of services and customer-centric approach, SHWR stands out as a premier destination for watch enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Whether you own a modern luxury watch or a vintage timepiece with sentimental value, SHWR has the expertise to keep your watch in pristine condition, ensuring it continues to be a cherished possession for years to come.

Contact us now on 0208 088 6439 or email us at enquiries@shwr.co.uk

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What our customers had to say

"One of a kind"
"Excellent service on vintage watches that no one else can repair. Trained professionals, honest and knowledgeable. Thanks so much.
"

Vintage Cartier – Dana G

What our customers had to say

"Outstanding"
"
I cannot rate Steven Hale highly enough. From my initial emails, right through to collecting my watch, they were extremely helpful and answered all of my many questions."

"I had my watch serviced and a significant part replaced. I had previously been told by others that the replacement part was no longer available which for a vintage and very sentimental watch was more than a little disappointing. Steven Hale very quickly informed me that this was not correct and they located the part. My watch looks absolutely incredible. It has been serviced before but never come back looking and feeling as good as it does this time. I will always use them from now on and have referred others to them as well."

Rolex datejust - katie r

What our customers had to say

"What a simple, satisfying and reassuring experience!"
"
A clear outline of the process to begin with, helpful communication along the way and an excellent outcome.The professional approach by the business was enhanced by the individual arrangements made for the transfer of my watch.In all, a really professional experience."

Rolex Oysterdate - Howard W

What our customers had to say

"Incredible restoration of my vintage watch - highly recommend!"
"
I picked up my 64 year old watch today from Steven Hale after Rolex themselves referred me. I've waited 6 months to be reunited with it (due to it being a vintage), and I am beyond chuffed! I have previously taken the watch to a specialist but was turned away due to its age. But for the first time in years, the experts at Steven Hale have made it work like new. I applaud the excellent team of knowledgeable staff both in the workshop, but also in the showroom, who explained all my options in meticulous detail. This watch has been passed down three generations and I'm so pleased to have it back in full working order. I couldn't recommend Steven Hale enough for anyone with a special vintage watch, unsure of the best place to get it restored."

Vintage Rolex - Oscar S

What our customers had to say

"For years I had been told by a succession of watch repairers that my watch was obsolete, irreparable or both. Finally I was recommended to Steven Hale. Five months later my watch is back on my wrist, as good as it ever was. I can't recommend Steven Hale highly enough."

Vintage Rolex Oyster - Nigel F

What our customers had to say

"Very happy with the communication and service received. Would recommend this company with confidence."

Dr Bakaya

What our customers had to say

"Just to confirm my Rolex has been delivered & looks absolutely spot on. I’d like to express my thanks to yourself & to all at SHWR for the excellent all round professional service - it’s been much appreciated. With your workload backlog I doubt that your Company needs any further recommendations or endorsements, but should you ever want one please don’t hesitate to contact me. With my thanks once again & my best regards."

MARTIN

What our customers had to say

"My great grand-father's Breguet was given to me by my father for my 21st birthday. 30 years later, post restoration by SHWR, it is in far better shape than I have ever seen it. SHWR's craftsmanship is immaculate. The firm is polite, professional and honest. Outstanding - I cannot recall another occasion when I have been so favourably impressed."

edward

What our customers had to say

"I have just had my 1934 Rolex Oyster repaired. From start to finish I had full confidence in every one I had contact with at Steven Hale. They have been very efficient in identifying the problems at the initial examination and dealing with them as promised. There were no nasty surprises and unexpected complications along the way. Because of the age of my watch, spares are not available, and new parts have had to be made - all very expertly done. They even polished the gold case and my 86yr old watch now looks as good as new. You can certainly trust these people with your precious timepieces."

venessa

What our customers had to say

"I had bought a 1970s Pepsi GMT at auction and it needed some work. The lume on the hands was breaking up. Rolex UK wanted some hilarious price and threatened to replace the hands with new ones if their work failed - all at my expense of course. Steven Hale and co managed to repair the hands and maintain the original patina of the 40 plus year old watch which was of course crucial! Highly recommended."

Johan

What our customers had to say

"These are watch lovers and it shows. Their meticulous craftsmanship and expertise make them unique in London and I suspect that only in Switzerland may their equivalents be found. The experience of Steven Hale Watch Restoration begins with the talented and charming individuals who are client facing in South Molton Street and who instil a confidence that is consequently fully fulfilled. This firm represents unequalled talent in its field as well as exceptional client service. I have seldom recommended anyone with greater conviction."

FRANK