Watch Servicing & Maintenance Guide

jp884 · 2025-08-02T22:05:52Z

Explore jp884's journey from a frustrating MB Blue Arrow service experience to acquiring a unique Singer Reimagined watch, highlighting AD Collective's exceptional service.

jp884

WPS member · Independents forum

20 replies3252 views7 photos

In a candid post, jp884 shares a frustrating experience with a new MB Blue Arrow watch, highlighting significant customer service delays that ultimately led to a change in his collection. His detailed account not only exposes potential pitfalls in luxury watch after-sales support but also celebrates the exemplary service of his authorized dealer, Collective. This narrative offers valuable insights into how an AD's commitment can transform a negative brand experience into a positive acquisition.

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But let me give you the back story. About 4 months ago I bought a new MB blue arrow from Collective. After about 3 days the chrono hand stopped centering. Collective was great they had me ship the watch back to them and handled the repair order from MB. Here we are about 5 months later and no watch from MB. Collective has been great advocating for me but the response we get from MB is that the repair will take 6 months to 1 year!? WTF?! This was a brand new watch that you couldn’t be bothered to expedite the repair for your customer? Anyways I get a call from Collective explaining the story to me and they are deeply apologetic for something that is not their fault. They offer me a few of solutions one being refunding me the whole purchase, one using the money towards a trade towards a new watch or finally waiting for my watch from MB. The last option was a no go if MB was reacting this way from an AD advocating for me they would probably tell me to piss off. I will never buy another MB watch ever again because of the horrible customer service.

So here I am with a decision to make. Because Collective has been so awesome to deal with I didn’t want them to necessarily take a hit on the MB watch so I opted to take a credit and add money to get something new. I’m not a big fan of collaboration watch/car watches. But this is a bit different it’s their own brand. I’ve spoken to several watch dealer friends of mine that rave about this watch so I thought I would give it a go. None of them ever spoke to me except this one. Maybe it’s the color combo and size. But being a car guy I thought it would be a nice addition. Hopefully you guys do to.

Key Points from the Discussion

MB should have offered a direct replacement for a brand new watch with a defect, especially given it was a special edition purchased from a collaborating retailer. The lengthy repair time for a new watch is unacceptable.
The author's experience with MB's service aligns with other reported issues, suggesting a systemic problem. The current leadership may not be effectively addressing these service challenges.
A fellow collector also experienced a year-long service wait for a Minerva AVUS sent to MB, indicating that extended repair times are not an isolated incident for the brand.
As an MB Club M.58 member, the contributor plans to escalate these customer service issues to management, emphasizing the need to protect Minerva's heritage from being tarnished by poor service.
The author reiterates that the extended service wait for a new watch is unacceptable and that collectors, not speculators, are the ones who will ultimately stop buying due to such experiences.
The authorized dealer, Collective, demonstrated exceptional customer care by offering multiple solutions, including a full refund or credit, despite the issue being with the manufacturer.

The Discussion

AuHavrePro

Aug 2, 2025

The color combo and details really make it stand out in a highly attractive way! 👏😎

Champthekid

Aug 2, 2025

When my Minerva AVUS was sent to MB it took a year. I was not thrilled, but when I received it back they did a great job. Luckily I had a few watches to hold me over though 😁. The Singer is really cool. Do you have one of their Porches as well? I think they’re so cool.

111forza

Aug 2, 2025

And well done to the AD 👏

TeutonicCarFan

Aug 2, 2025

The blue arrow was sharp. I had issues with a MB, luckily it didn’t take so long to rectify. I don’t think Laurent lecamp is steering mb too well right now, but their service has always been an issue from what I read. That’s a cool, fun watch. Enjoy !

jp884

Aug 3, 2025

Don’t necessarily need a singer per se besides the watch. I drive my cars so owning a singer to look at it does not appeal to me.

Goh

Aug 3, 2025

that took care of you. MB should have replaced the Blue Arrow with a brand new one, then they can take their own sweet time to fix the issue on the old one, especially since you've purchased it from the retailer who collaborated with MB for this special edition. No doubt, a very nice watch, as is many other Minerva/MB timepieces, but I wouldn't want to touch these after hearing your experience (and a few others from here as well). There are too many beautiful and worthy substitutes for these I t

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