Marcello,
You would surprised (or perhaps not) ast the number of stories that I have heard like yours on a number of reputable Swiss and German watch manufacturers who are directly contacted by owners. To be fair, some of the companies which I have heard horror stories about, I have had great experiences with. In fact a number of ADs have told me that they have "no clout" compared with a customer. Some have said, with the advent of the internet and watch cyber-communities such as this one, manufacturers are becoming better about service. If this true, its really a shame and reflects a misguided corporate culture.
Thanks for sharing your story.
Bob