Service
Francoamerican's experience with Patek Philippe's service department regarding a dented bezel highlights a critical point of contention for many luxury watch owners: the extent of authorized repair and restoration. This discussion explores the challenges of maintaining a watch's aesthetic integrity when factory service options are limited, prompting a deeper look into independent repair alternatives and their implications for a watch's provenance and future serviceability. His dilemma resonates with collectors who value both the wearability and pristine condition of their timepieces.
In any case, there are really good independent shops that can laser-weld a repair if you decide to go that route. I'd suggest not "throwing out the baby with the bath water" for an issue like this.
They'll polish it, but if it still visible after the polish they said it was my problem. They really discouraged polishing generally as well. I have a lead for a good independent who will fix it. It will be all serviced and have fresh strap and likely look pretty good after that. Of course then Patek will wash their hands of the integrity of the case forever since it's no longer fixed to their specification. Will they even service it after that? It's fine and in the scheme of things not a big de
Polishing the bezel with the help of a real professional should not be a big issue. But you said the watch would be „all serviced“. How can that be as nobody can get the necessary original spare parts, not even original gasket for the case back. I would check that with the service company. Best of luck!!
I see how big the dent is in the photos. But from what I can see, the dent looks to be more on the minor side than on the serious side. Does the watch run well? I'm surprised that HSWA won't replace the bezel. I sent you a PM.
“HSWA have decided they can refurbish the case after all and it was a very reasonable estimate for this service. The communication was excellent once they got involved. I’d like to thank those who recommended I get in touch with HSWA directly, as they resolved the situation quickly. I expect to have the watch back in 16 weeks. I’m glad I don’t have to get rid of my PPs out of a concern that they can’t support their watches fully. All’s back to normal and my faith in the brand has been restored.”
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