FabR[Senior Patek Moderator]
26166
Please keep us posted on the outcome. I just re-read my own comments in the thread you referenced (which turned out to be accurate to the OP's full satisfaction), and I feel like repeating them verbatim here.
Feb 27, 2023,21:07 PM
I'm not sure whom you spoke with so far, but quoting myself from the earlier thread:
"Once Patek finally receives your watch, they will no doubt offer you some viable options.
Of course, you should only expect a solution consistent with the highest standards, but you WILL be offered one. Watches are meant to be worn, and Patek knows that very well ;-)
I'm ready to bet quite a lot that while the final result will probably be expensive and take some time (don't expect anything fast), your watch will return from Geneva in like-new condition."
Also,
"Patek routinely (and successfully) take up much bigger challenges, even on watches long discontinued and in far worse shape than what we can see from your pictures.
In the worst case scenario, they will just replace the case [or bezel], if necessary to return a watch that meets Patek's standards. But there's no doubt they will restore your watch AND send it back to you in like-new condition."
If you scroll down and read the OP's update, that is precisely what happened in his case. But, IF it turns out you're right and in your instance Patek really won't fix the bezel, please let us know as well by posting an update here --- all I want on my forum is to be fair and correct to all parties, which in this instance means BOTH you and Patek! ;-)
However, note that it is up to a Patek watchmaker -- not you or your insurance company -- to decide the best course of action to fix this watch. The fact that, if I understand correctly, your insurance would even be willing to pay for a new bezel, does NOT imply in any way that Patek will decide to do that.
As for buying a JLC date master, that's obviously always an option... Ruining it won't be "so painful," and it is readily available for sale -- many people will agree on both counts
But seriously, I'm glad to read that after further thought, you decided to send such a beautiful watch in to Patek for service. And like I said, I'm sure the outcome will, also in your instance, be fully satisfactory
Cheers,
FabR (Patek moderator)