My Omega looks terrible now - What would you do?
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- čas přidán 19. 07. 2024
- Just recently I went out for dinner with 6 very good friends and I happen to wear my Omega Aqua Terra on the wrist that evening.
Unfortunately the watch sustained a massive scratch and dent on the side of the case and it got me thinking, what would you do if you gat a massive scratch, do you fix it, flip it, repair it...what do you do?
I asked several watch enthusiasts and collectors this question and they gave me their answers
Also thanks to our sponsor of this video, Watchcrunch, check them out and feel free to follow me: www.watchcrunch.com/PeterKotsa
Also you can continue this topic on Watchcrunch: www.watchcrunch.com/PeterKotsa
Thanks for watching..
00:00 Intro
00:36 How it got scratched
01:40 How we handle watches
02:40 Car scratch example
03:33 Video sponsor
04:30 Six colleagues answer the question
07:18 Summary
09:14 My good watch habits
10:15 Final thoughts
08:40 Final Thoughts - Jak na to + styl
My biggest issue with this story is that the first guy asked for your trust, then proceeded to hand the watch around the table. Regardless of whether the watch came back pristine or not, both of you were aware that this was not what you agreed to when you handed him the watch. My advice would be to not put any trust in this person again, for any reason (watch related or not).
EDIT: Also, given the location and direction, I'm guessing it was an accidental scratch from a diamond ring, and that the person who scratched it was well aware that they did it, but didn't fess up.
I hear you, but being that I have already battled with this in my own heart, Id rather not hold any grudges against the guys. I totally blame myself, I should have known better
Lesson learnt 😊
@@PeterKotsa I’m curious, what would you have done differently? How do you politely say no to removing your watch from your wrist?
I only wish I had any mates who GAF about watches and ask to see them....
True!
It seems unusual that someone who knows nothing about handling watches would ask to see your watch. So I imagine the conversation had turned to Watches somehow and that’s what got such folks interested. Painful lesson learned but now you have an excuse for next time.
That scratch (and dent) look way more severe than what would happen just passing it around a table - at least to me.
Seriously, I get people can be rough but how do you get a scratch like that from holding it? Were people banging it off the table?
@@HaonProductions scrapped off a diamond ring, surely
It is only an Omega, just throw it away and buy a new one.
'Sounds good' for insurance reasons though, right?
@@Sibbe2560 okay Rockefeller
Honestly Peter, the person who handed your watch round the table was totally disrespectful of you, as were the others. Were they aware of the value of the watch, both in monetary and personal terms? If they act in this way here, would they be different in any other circumstances? I would lose trust in these people. I'm so sorry that you had this experience. If it was me I'd let Omega remove the scratch, but people feel differently about this. Your experience is a lesson for all of us. Thank you for sharing what was obviously a difficult experience for you.
I think generally, people have no clue on the value of luxury watches. They likely think it's worth a couple hundred bucks. But less than a apple watch. They probably think Rolex is worth 2-3k and is the most expensive.
Great video Peter. It would be upsetting for me if someone else scratched my watch.
I’m very careful not to damage mine but still it has happened occasionally.
Recently I scratched my new Houtman.
I first became upset.
Then thought to fix it.
Now just live with it as this is a long term watch in my collection.
Most people have no clue. I don’t hand my watches to anyone.
The value really shouldn’t matter. You should be able to trust your friends to handle your things with respect. Even if it was just $100 Timex people should be handling it with care.
What kind of careless moron scratches a watch simply by holding and examining it anyway? And in this case that was a pretty gnarly scratch. Did the person drag it across the serrated edge of a steak knife? It’s made of high grade stainless steel for christ sake. It’s not easy to put deep scratches in that type of material.
Yeah, f those clowns. I had an intuition simply from your channel that there was something of that sort going on with those around you. Ditch all of them, they do hurt you & the greatness of your content.
Thought provoking video 👍 . My attitude is, I buy a watch to wear so I can tell the time, if I wear it, it will get scratched, I'll say bugger and then get on with my life. However, this wasn't scratched by you and that makes a big difference. Recently, I have taken to just wearing inexpensive watches, I find I get just as much pleasure choosing, buying and wearing them with zero stress, because I can afford to replace if necessary and no one wants to rob me.
Well said! That is an almighty scratch from just handling a watch… it looks like it fell to the ground, hitting something on the way down! That is the reason I wear Damasko. My DC67 has been on my wrist for years as a daily, dropped and smacked against a door handle/jamb multiple times…. and not a scratch, not even a scuff. It looks as good as the day I bought it. Solution: wear Sinn or Damasko and then you can loan it to a friend.
@@edteach3r you can scratch watches just by looking at them 😭 rings can scratch them, seat belt buckles can scratch them, door frames, desks in general. There is no point worrying about scratches they are completely unavoidable in everyday life.
@@Weakeyedominant I agree wholeheartedly, as my collection of 36 watches will attest 😊. I also concur with D Underhay that scratches I add are of no concern and, for me, add to the character and my memories of the watch. I don’t sell my watches and, apart from a few that I have gifted to friends and family, have kept them all since I started collecting in the early 1970s. Then again, I would not feel that way if such scratches are detrimental to the value of a significant timepiece (e.g. Rolex, which I cannot afford in the first place) or if I were to flip watches for profit. The only watch that I baby is my Heuer Autavia, a watch that was a gift from my wife on my 60th birthday, a grail watch 50 years in waiting that holds a special place in my collection. Now, when I buy a piece beyond the average Seiko price point, I buy Damasko and Sinn in tegmented steel as they maintain their original appearance despite daily wear. Those watches could be sold for a decent price in the future, if my family so wishes.
I had an issue at a local jeweler, who I wanted to resize an awkward double-sided screw bracelet. The relatively old lady who I handed it over to dropped it, then thumped it down back on the counter, before unceremoniously throwing watch and bracelet into the same small plastic bag. I almost asked for the watch back, but couldn't bring myself to make aa issue of it as the shop have done lots of good work for me over the years. I had a nervous few days until I collected it, and thankfully it was undamaged, but suffice to say I'm now looking for an alternative shop.
I took a diver off while putting xmas tree together - put it down in safe area in kitchen. 10 mins later I hear the unmistakeable sound of a watch going down 😮
Follow-on convo with Mrs included me handling the question “what’s the problem”? Currently learning to live with it. Same goes for the damaged watch. 😅
Haha..OUCH and OUCH 😂😂
After six decades I've learned the hard way Don't sweat the small things in life especially a scratch on a watch Though there are something's I tend to tread lightly with but at this point No worries my collection will and is being passed down to my magnificent son and daughter So maybe they should comment instead of myself Another fantastic video Thanks as always my friend 👍
The massive scratch is a testament not all people have respect. You don't need to know how to handle a watch to have respect for other people's things.
Great topic Pete, and I will come out and say that seeing that scratch on your Omega made me feel bad, and very happy that you had it fixed.
As for me, I'm an engineer plagued with OCD who has always taken extremely good care of everything I own...watches, cars, tools, toys, etc. Thus, in the case of watches, and although very rare, I tend to immediately get them repaired or replaced if not expensive.
I have done the same with my sports cars over the years where I have to get any damage, no matter how small, fixed as soon as possible.
I will confess that as I get older, I'm trying to relax and mellow a little more, but I find it difficult to do.
In general, I use my things but have always been very careful and methodical. I'm also obsessed with proper maintenance specially of all mechanical things.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and those of your 5 friends.
Now please, don't let anybody else touch your watches my friend 😁
😊
The silver lining here, we'll all think twice before handing a watch over to another person. Thank you for the story Peter.
More the like the main moral of the story, DON'T HAND YOUR WATCH OVER! LOL.
A great discussion about something that happens to all of us at some point.
I had a similar thing happen to me… a friend put a decent sized ding on the top of one of the lugs of my first ever Speedy Pro. Because it was along the sharp top edge, there was no fixing it.
I tried for over a year not to let it bother me, but it kept gnawing at me and I’d notice it every time I put the watch on, so I eventually sold it.
I now own the new Speedy Pro with the coaxial movement and absolutely love it (especially the new bracelet) so all’s well that ends well.
As long as your still friends thats the main thing 👍
I got a deep scratch on the bezel of my Rolex Explorer-doesn’t bother me too much. Honestly, you can bang up your watch for 20 years have a good polish and it’ll look like new.
I've been collecting watches on and off for about 15 yrs, and I'm really enjoying my ceramic Seamaster 300m because I can wear it and not worry about scratches. It's possible the case could break if i really screw up, but otherwise both the case and bezel are scratch proof.
I would love to buy SMP 300 if its 38 to 40mm. Sadly, its not.
Watches, cars, motorbikes whatever. That first ding is a heart breaker. But I find it grants me the freedom to actually enjoy the object. The new is rubbed off and it’s truly mine now to use as it was intended. So once the tears subside, the rage over the injustice fades and the sulking is over, life goes on. Cheers.
I look at it the same way I look at giving someone money. If what I'm handing them is something I can't afford to lose (or not get back 100%), I shouldn't hand it over and most people can respect that. Accidents aren't a test of trust, its a symptom.
If its a watch I wear all the time and I don't mind the natural story wear, its ok. Sure, the first big one always hurts, but its not like its intentional. After a while it just becomes a reminder of both lessons and memories. Some you want to erase, and some you want to relive.
"This scratch came from mistakenly handing it to someone and they passed it around... I wont make that mistake again and maybe I'll get it buffed out." - is one thing
"THIS scratch came from taking my son on his first hike, and I will never repair it." - is completely different.
The first line of defense is you. If you can't bear the thought of something happening to it, don't put it in that situation. If/when that time does happen, repair it or replace it if the money is no object.
I would have polished out a scratch that big. I'm with you on this one.
Thoughtful video with a positive ending…Thank you. Take care and stay safe shipmate 👍🏼
Hi Peter,
A very good thought provoking video. I believe the main problem is that you did not scratch the Omega when you were wearing the watch .
I don’t like scratches on my watches but it happens and because I did them , it softens the blow or it serves as a memory to a place or time.
I think you did the right thing and had the scratch removed.
Cheers
Dave
Hi Peter, great video as always! scratches or dents... or even deep dents on our favorite watches is a big issue for me too, that is why I only collect watches below $1000 and most of my watches are tough diver watch.
By the way, I saw that today Urban Gentry has just uploaded a new video about restoring his rolex with "Laser Welding"
You might wanna check about it. Sometimes polishing a watch is not fixing the problem if the scratch / dent is too deep... and we might over-polished the watch which leads to deformation of the watch case.
Laser welding could cost much, up to $1000, but I've seen on many watch forums those laser welding watch restoration...... they have amazing end results (back to be.....like a brand new watch)
recently this is more and more like a trend. I think as a watch lover you might wanna check this out!
Reminds me of when someone asks to write with your fountain pen; you have to learn to accept the social embarrassment of saying no, as the negative consequences just aren’t worth it. Some people do take it badly!
Laser welding is a solution. I've seen some really good repairs and boy was I amazed......
Sorry about your watch. I feel your pain as l am very troubled by scratches on my watches. Glad you managed to get it removed.
Love what you did here: "Therapy" 😉
Glad it turned out well for you. That Omega team who fixed your watch is Top Notch! Looks brand new! (and you still have a good story to tell)
For me, I really take care of my watches but I don't "baby" them b/c, to me, a watch is made to be worn. Mind you, I don't have very expensive watches and I have watches for specific occasions (beater, daily, dress, etc.) and if it happens to get a scratch, so be it. (yes, like John, I do cry a little, but I get over it) 😊
Thanks for sharing this story.
Biggest risk is door handles, washing machine, and falls. I love the marks add character and tells a story.. If one must polish it should be light surface finish only. Not deep dent repair...
Like you, Peter, I am very careful with my watches (and my cameras). But I accidentally scratched two of my best watches, a Rolex and a Tudor. Bought a Cape Cod cloth and fixed the scratches myself!
Great video Peter 😁 I remember noticing the first scratch on my Black Bay. My immediate reaction was anxiety but after a few seconds I realized, my pre-owned Seamaster 300 arrived with an assortment of small dings and the odd scratch. It looked lived in and it made sense, it's bound to happen over the course of several years. In the case of a nasty scratch like yours, I can understand you getting it buffed out. It was pretty noticeable . The marks on my BB are very light and don't really bother me. I don't think it's practical to try keeping the watch in pristine condition.. Nothing looks new forever.
My watches only leave my wrist for one thing, and one thing only. Swapping to another watch in the rotation. Nice of you to have handed it over, but I would not ever recommend it unless the other person is also an enthusiast.
Rule number one, never take out your wedding ring for someone to look at. Rule number two, never take out your watch for someone to look at. Rule number three - that applies to folks wearing a neck chain with a Cross or a necklace.Why ? It's as simple as that: those are very personal items, period. How about that, "can I check out your wife/GFriend etc. Yes, and I couldn't care less about anyone's opinion on this, that's my take. Regarding the scratch, there are two schools here. One prefers "marked" "damaged " "battle scars" and one prefers freshness and immaculate looks. Am with the second, get your watch sorted out asap, forget what happened and learn from your mistake, don't give your watch for someone to look at. Remember Pete, someone could av dropped it, far worse scratch/dent or even shatter the crystal. Merry Xmas Pete:)
👍
I have an Aqua Terra on a vintage leather strap, all scratched, and love it. Got another pristine two tone Speedy, in my drawer...
My dad used to abused his watches, he lived passionately, and now that he's gone, only have good memories.
Have it laser welded repair it is very impressive what they can do now! I had a Sinn repaired like that and I was blown away with the results!
I hope you’ll have the lovely Aqua Terra repaired soon!
Cheers
I had this exact problem. I bought an Orient Ray Raven II as a reward for getting a new job. 10 days later I had to perform an emergency repair to my car and scratched the crystal and bezel insert. I ordered a replacement bezel insert from California (I’m in England) and an AR coated sapphire replacement. Painful experience but fun upgrade project.
No body has said 'it depends on the scratch ' surly that's the main thing. I don't mind tiny everyday wear scratches that you actually have to really look for to find, but you know they're there. But that is a big first scratch. (First scratch always the worst) you probably did the right thing, but don't do it for the tiny scratches that the watch will get over time.
It's pretty simple. If it bothers you, get it fixed. Ahh, 9:04, you got it fixed! Yep! For me, light scratches from normal wear are acceptable. A deep scratch I would have fixed.
My collection consists of $200 - $2000 watches. A scratch on any of them devastates me. Glad you got that beauty fixed.
Pete, my answer to you is this: I FEEL YOUR PAIN. I got a similar kind of watch. I don't hand it to anyone. And if I had gotten such a scratch, I would promptly bring it to my AD for repair and pray to god he can do a miracle and bring it back. Really I feel for you man. Hurts. All the way up here in Canada. ☮️ Keep up the marvelous filming.
This happens even at watch meets, people shuffle the watch piles pushing them against each other, and other "accidents"... I wear my watches but those are my scratches that I own versus mis handling
Even a high end watch that is used as a daily can develop the story of your life. The dinner party scratch you described is a killer though, I would be gutted.
Got my Aqua Terra (ironically my wedding watch) sapphire glass scratched by my wife wedding ring on the 3rd day owning it.... took me 8 years before replacing it when i sent the whole watch in for service and polishing. Lol, it was on my mind 24/7 over few weeks before i decided that it was a unique piece now. 🤣
Great video.
Watches are designed to be worn, or else place inside safety deposit box for sale. I would have had it buffed, but again I love wearing my timepieces...they do tell a story.
I am also a watch collector of luxury fine time pieces, anyone who says your first scratch on a watch gives it character obviously doesn't have the same level of appreciation but they may on another item or possession they have, its all relevant to each of us! I have been wearing fine watches for decades and in fact just had this conversation with my wife who can wear a new pair of shoes or a new watch and after one time of wearing then will have scratches or wear marks, yet I can wear a watch for years or the same pair of dress shoes for several years with what so ever no scuffs or scratches, it all comes down to being aware and the fact we are collectors and never want our investments to diminish in value, we just take care of our investments. If I had a scratch on my watch that is that noticeable I would take it to the jeweler and have it buffed out, it doesn't really cost that much and well worth the aggravation of me not stressing out looking at the scratch every time I wear it, hahaha This has been a practice of mine for years. Your exactly correct we who appreciate our things develop habits which carries into everything in our lives.
I expect my watches to be scratched, but I prefer that it's because of me and not someone else.
In that situation I would try to diminish the scratch by re-brushing myself, would be a polished chamfer I would get it fixed by a local watch maker.
I buy watches to keep them, and kind of passed the first scratches long ago.
Interesting conversation, to trust or not to trust… the great outcome is dinner with mates & a scratch fixed!
A sales man let a customer try on his smart watch the other day, the customer dropped it on the concrete floor - smart watch no more!
All my watches show their wabi sabi, but I do wear tool watches on adventures or in the garden
Excellent video as always. In my modest collection some are expected to get a bit scratched up, others I wear with extreme care not to scratch. In my case (😉) I don't intend on flipping or selling any of them.
A Black Bay was my first luxury watch (All Seiko before) so babied it for a while. Then I got the Rolex I always wanted. After that the BB become my daily and I moved home wearing it. Now it's scratched up I actually enjoy wearing the BB more because I don't worry about it and the watch is tied to my old and new home and it's my go to piece now.
Doesn’t matter how or who scratched the watch. No matter how careful I am is seems inevitable that I scratch my watch. The big issue is when you put the first scratch on a pristine watch. After the first couple of scratches it becomes a non issue. I prefer to buy used watches that look like they have already lived a life. That way somebody else has had to go through the first scratch dilemma. It also depends where the scratch it. If you see it every time you look at the watch it is much harder to live with. I have given in and refinished some of the scratches on watches. Try living with it for a while to see if it bugs you too much
For me it depends on the watch - I have a few Pagani Fauxmega’s etc and if I do get one I’ll get my trusty selection of wet and dry paper and pads and re-brush the offending area or get the Autosol out if it’s high polish. I have even done this with a bequested Tag and it came up really well.
This is probably not for everyone as I was a tableware modeller in another life so used to doing this sort of thing and also practiced on a few cheap gardening and garage watches beforehand. It’s just knowing your skill level and tossing up the price to have it done professionally and the value of the watch. I don’t think I would have had a go myself if it was my Omega!
I crashed on my bike and my Certina diver got a deep bezel scratch. And it’s bracelet is riddled with light scratches. It’s how it’s supposed to be. The charm of steel is its durability. To me, steel watches aren’t cool if you treat them like porcelain. I won’t even buy a watch that I can’t handle getting beaten up, unless it’s a dress watch. I buy sports watches with the intention of them looking beaten up in 10-20 years time, just like my fathers 25+ year old Seiko that’s still going strong. I would probably get distressed if I got a crystal badly scratched though. That’s where the line is drawn for me. But that can easily be fixed by replacement or even polywatch
A friend rang me today and he was riding his bike and smashed. He was wearing a relatively expensive Sinn...quite a few battle scars now
i'm with Tony on this one, the scratches are part of your story with the watch
that being said the scar on Peter's Omega was rather extreme, as if someone had sliced into it with a diamond ring and not something one might expect to happen when merely passed round the dinner table - especially not amongst a group of friends who value and appreciate you sharing life with them - so i would wonder that nobody spoke up and said they had damaged it by mistake, giving one pause as to whether everyone in that group was completely trustworthy
even if it wasn't done maliciously, it shows a distinct lack of respect, and i might reevaluate some relationships in that scenario
Scratches done my myself are part of the story. Scratches done maliciously by others are another thing entirely. Seeing that every wear would just turn me homicidal.
I scratch all my watches, some at work and the more expensive ones in the outdoors! I keep my watches and they reflect my lifestyle! Best regards Oni
Great Video. This is something I struggle with. I am like you , I want to accept them as character building but I just can't! Bugs my OCD like crazy. With my cars, watches, sunglasses or anything valuable I do my best to always keep them in new condition. Even with fine scratch's on the clasp, I use cape cod polishing cloths to bring them back to new. Honestly I am jealous of those who can scratch their watch and not have it keep them up at night ! Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦
Yessir! Spot on.
Oh wow. I have the exact same reference with very similar scratches on the side of the case. It was however, caused by myself when I picked it up with my left hand and my platinum wedding ring put two scratches in the side. Feel you bro!
To add on, the scratches happened months ago. It hurt like crazy for a few weeks, but I soon forgot about it. Somehow over time, the scratch seems to sorta smoothen out with wear, though still visible.
So I agree with one of your friends. Do nothing. Soon you won't think about it.
I'm sorry Pete, but I fail to see how a deep scratch like the one shown is the result of handling at a dinner table. This looks deliberate to me. As for the question, I agree with you. I would have had this repaired as you did. I would classify this as damage not wear and tear. I have a 24yr old Seamaster which shows its age, but nothing to draw your eye. I'm glad your watch is looking its best again and you can continue to enjoy it.
Peter, great video when I saw your scratch, yep get it fixed. I have a Rolex GMT II with the polished center clasp and noticed just today a pretty heavy and deep scratch on the top end of the clasp. This is my only modern watch I keep in the safe (for safety) and was really disappointed because of all of my other watches, like you, really don’t scratch them like this. I may get it polished out…not sure, but your video may help me decide what to do.
Best of luck with that decision David. At the end of the day I personally could not stand the sight of the huge gash, so I got it rectified..job done 😊
Thanks. That's a good video of an unfortunate situation. If someone asked to see an expensive watch, especially in a group situation, I think I would tell them a little about the watch then suggest for a better look they go to a watch dealer or jeweler that could tell explain all the benefits of this and other watches to them. If they reacted badly it would be a sign that not letting them hold or try it on is the right decision.
I have the same AT as you and I've come to accept SOME level of scratches given all the polished surfaces on the bracelet, bezel and lugs. It's the same for my other watches. Light wears scratches are unavoidable. Bigger scratches do bug me from time to time, but if I make the scratch, then I have a better time dealing with it. In your case, the issue is you didn't make the scratch in the first place, so rather than maybe holding a memorable event or occasion to that mark, you're just reminded by someone's carelessness.
The first scratch always hurts me the most but I get over it and it's not an issue.
Recently I scratched my Omega AT as well after 6-7 months of wear. Initially it was a mix between shock and despair. A watch is a status symbol, but it is also a tool - I don't abuse it, but if I were to sell it, I would definitely get it polished. It's just that with every polish, the case gets less sharp and material is removed to buff out the scratch. So either way the watch is never the same as before, even if to the naked eye it looks brand new. So I say - take care of your belongings, but don't get too fussed about it when it does scratch.
If it's a huge, noticeable scratch then I would definitely get it fixed. Most of my scratches are near the clasp, or on the bracelet near the clasp, and I don't care much about them. Tissot PRX Chronograph and Hamilton Khaki Pilot Day Date.
Nice video. I’m of a similar mind about my “bought new” watches, but not as much about used watches. However I actually just sent my Skyfall Aqua Terra (bought used this year) in for a service with the request it be finished to factory and for a replacement crystal (since it had picked up some scratches on the AR coating by the prior owner that didn’t show on the seller’s photos). Hoping to get back a “like new” piece to enjoy for years to come.
Peter, I truly commend you on your patience & forgiveness because where I'm from, you scuff up my shoe, let alone scratching my $6k dollar watch, I don't care which of the 6 of you did it, that's 6 head up fades. I don't think the guy you entrusted with your watch should have then allowed someone else to look at it.
Not gonna lie, I do hate scratches on my watch, especially when it's on polished parts of my watch. My most expensive watch is my Mido Ocean Star GMT & I've tried my best to keep it pristine. If it does get scratched it's not the end of the world though.
Appreciate this video, the next time a non-watch person asks to see my watch I'm going to tell them to go stuff it. It really irks me because I can put myself in your shoes. I just never expected something like that could happen from just handling it.
I hate scratching my watches, just as I hate my bikes or cars getting damaged, however, a scratch doesn't mean I dislike my car, it's still mine - "there are many like it, but this one is mine", and thus, the watch hasn't lost value to me.
The first scratch can be upsetting but then strangely turns into something quite liberating, "I've done it now so any further smaller scratches are fine". If it's a deep scratch or especially a dent, however, I might worry that it may have done some damage to the internal workings of the watch.
I feel you…. I am also a photographer that owns many watches…. We are all OCD😂
I'm like you Pete. I take very good care of my watches and protect them as much as possible. That doesn't mean I don't wear them, I do. But I'm aware of all the pitfalls where I might scratch my watch so I'm careful. But yes, scratches bug me and I do the same. I get it fixed....
My first words to someone asking "can I have a look at that" are usually "piss off".
After someone damaged my Big Pilot, unless someone I know personally either works with watches or appreciates and collects them. They don’t touch any watch
I would've had that Omega repaired too! That scratch would have bugged me big-time. That watch is well worth the repair cost. You would never stop looking at that scratch.
So, here's what I'd say. If I was the one who dented it, then I wouldn't really care because one of two things would happen:
a) As it is, it's probably a watch that's a keeper for life (why else would I have bought it) so I don't really care.
OR
b) Even if I did dent it, I wouldn't really notice. I'm kinda rough with my watches in general (there are exceptions in my collection, of course!), so I don't really care.
BUT, that comes with a caveat. Two, actually. First, if it was someone else's watch, then yes, I'll do my very best to handle it with care. The other person's trusting me, and so the least I could do is to repay it back by assuring them that their watch is in good hands. Second (and this is under the assumption that I own said watch), if this watch crosses a price bracket (i.e. high-horology dress watch), I'd handle that with care - of course, I wouldn't mind a hairline scratch or two, but nothing beyond that.
As a car enthusiast, I'd agree with your friend there. Like your friend said, cars are a different story. A part of showing love to any car's character lies in how clean it looks, and so paint scratches, dents, or anything beyond that is a no-no, unlike the world of watches. Because even if cars and watches are similar, they're just not. Watches, to some extent are built to look good when they get dented. Cars exactly.....aren't.
My two cents aside, I'm really sorry that this happened. I was infuriated when the lady at the US embassy dropped my new-old stock 1971 Favre-Leuba Duomatic, and created a bit of an impressionable scratch - not only because the watch was ridiculously hard to find in that particular condition, but also because it was a birthday gift to myself when I turned 17 last year (anyone reading this, feel free to hit me up if you want to hear that watch story because it's one hell of a ride!). But in a way, there's a bit of a double standard that exists - if I dent my watch I don't care, but if someone else does, I'd be pretty infuriated unless that someone is a loved one.
This is one of the reasons I really love affordable watches. I don't know what I'd do if I owned a luxury watch and got a scratch on it.
I wonder if this was one of my affordable Seiko's if I would feel the same way with a massive scratch in it..I think probably yes.
Most of my Swiss luxury watches have fine hairline scratches, thats standard wear and tear and I live with that everyday as we all do. Thats character building to me..these are my watches after all and display my daily life marks on them.
This dent and gash on the Omega was a little different to me, it was so deep and unsightly, I could not stand the sight of it, so i had it repaired.
I agree with your point of view though regarding much more affordable pieces 👍
Thanks for sharing Dave, cheers brother
Ooohhh that’s painful mate! Something similar happened to my speedy. Not pleasant. I was upset for a short time and then thought well what can I do. Not much. And so I accepted it and moved on. Placed in the character building bucket so to speak.
I haven’t had to fix any watches due to scratches. So I think it would depend on which watch it happened to. Also, I wouldn’t let anyone touch my watch.
I have a tudor black bay I wear it all the time I am an engineer and it is scratched but I do not mind as it was brought to be warn as my wife says your not long on this earth so enjoy these things.
The first scratch is the deepest saddest moment on any watch that I have but I have them to wear them and accept that there will be a good chance of some scratches. The second scratch onwards is part of my journey with the watch. If there is damage that really annoys me then I'll consider getting it sorted. If I was thinking of selling a watch (perish the thought) that had marks I would consider getting it sorted depending on the value of the watch. But that's just my take. That first scratch really does hurt though. The scratch on yours would have likely been a decision for me to get it sorted though, that was a nasty one.
It's a watch Peter, it's okay to get scratches as watch is a tool in nature. If you can't stand scratches then you are like me! What's bugging you is actually your mind thinking that there's a scratch, thus making the watch imperfect. But as in life, nothing is perfect after all
Interesting point about care taken during photography bleeding over into watch handling. I suspect that might be the case for me, as well. Because despite a lot of clambering around outside in pursuit of a picture, for the most part my collection hasn't taken all that much damage. And when a watch does get a little wear it doesn't bother me a lot, since most of my watches are tools intended for vigorous use. Definitely in the "character" camp, generally. That said, I just bought a Serica California - as an affordable collector, at the top of my spending limit - as a personal reward for a milestone. On the second wear, I noticed an abrasion spot marring the bezel brushing. Very minor, literally no one would ever notice it (looks like a tiny finger smudge). In the context of a more commemorative/celebratory piece, *this* flaw is REALLY BUGGING ME.
I would have been gutted to see a scratch like that. Every time I handle someone else’s watch, I handle it with care - I treat it as if it was my own. That’s just carelessness on the part of your friend whom you agreed to have it looked at - NEVER TRUST HIM AGAIN w/ your other watches. I get it though, you don’t want to burn any bridges so I say lesson learnt and leave it at that.
I love all my watches,high end or lower end I keep them all pristine, all get worn simultaneous, always aware as to what I am wearing,if I was to get the odd mark I would sort it asap virtually same as my car , I great vid and a beut of a watch cheers baz.
My personal opinion to own these types of high end watches is make sure you have enough money to get another one just in case it got scratched or damaged. Your worst enemy is in your own mind, as long as you think you are afford to buy another one like you have all the money in the world I guarantee 100% you won't even bother how many scratches you got on your watch. I personally fighting myself because of this financial issues otherwise I won't even care because I know it's impossible to keep it unscratched as soon as it sits on my wrist.
Its Character building...IF...you're doing something of significance...tells the story of your life...something that, when, you pass it on to your children, they will be telling your story through your time pieces and the meaning each holds to them....the story...oh...my dad got this scratch because he had a moment of stupidity at a party one night...as opposed to....my dad got these marks digging ditches, feeding his family...served in the Army, Navy...Air Force, ran his business..put a roof over their heads, clothes on their backs...and the story is told....
My Black Bay S&G is scratched, and I own every single one of them. When it went to Tudor for service, instruction was simple, don’t touch the case and replace the bezel insert. I would have been devastated if they refinished the watch. The Tudor became mine the day I put the first scratch on it. But there is no right or wrong answer, just what makes you happy. BTW, killer Omega 😊
Cool vid. I specifically buy watches to wear, even.my vintage. I try not to scratch but I expect it as part of my experience and take it in stride. Guess we are all different.
It's not your fault at all, just something that happened. We can't control all aspects of our lives, especially when we share it with others, and thats okay. I have been in a similar situation where my watch was dropped 1m on to concrete and its an awful feeling, I remember feeling sick over it at the time. A lesson learnt for both of us and I would put my trust in that friend again. In the end I did sell the watch as the damage had a negative experienced attached to it. However, another watch I gouged while scuba diving is one I look at fondly all the time so it really depends on how the damaged happened for me
I am always amazed by these GTGs where participants casually « drop » a €8 k timepiece on the table for all to grab and check I am unable to reach this level of nonchalant confidence.
This is part of the reason I sold most of my collection and Rolexs. Because Iam no longer a collector. But a enthusiast of timepieces. And like to wear my watches as Tools. And my Tegimented Sinn collection has me covered.
Oh my goodness! I only hand over one of my watches to my friends who are watch collectors.
It's an interesting question. Basically I like my watches to look like new as long as possible. Of course almost every watch will scratch eventually, but I hope it somehow happens gradually, evenly and dignified in a sense. A scratch like on your watch is like a defacing wound or scar. I probably would do something about it, hand the watch over to an AD to get it sorted if feasible.
I would definitely fix it, my Omega Seamaster 300M means everything to me, I can't even bear it when there's a tiny scratch on the bracelet.
Four ways to look at this one. 1) life lesson trust your instinct and keep it on your wrist. 2)you bend it you break it, they guy you gave it too needs to pay for the repair 3)who cares 4) the scratch reminds you of your mates
Thank you for your video, i would never hand over my watch to any one. If this happened to me the i would get mad AT them
I live with them till the next service. they usually "clean" the watch during service but then again sometimes they put additional scratches too... I, when I scratch a watch, go nuts. My mood is sh*t for like a week and then I try to forget it. I would gladly get them repaired but from what I know polishing a watch is even worse. But I am like this with everything, not just watches - clothes, cars, leather items, you name it. Scratches and stains plain old kill me and my OCD
The first relatively expensive watch that I bought is my Unimatic. The very first day I dropped it ON THE EFFIN’ CONCRETE! What can I say now, it’s mine and it’s got the dent to prove it.
Just like your car analogy, I don't buy into the scratches add character or are happy memories...... Any dings or scratches I have gotten weren't from sky diving or anything exciting like that.... They were from banging into a door frame or maybe even had an unknown cause, and who wants to remember that?
Having said that, that was a pretty deep scratch just from handling it and passing out around the table
Hi, I love watches and I felt the pain when I saw your clip. When I scratch a watch, any watch in my collection, expensive or not, to me is like breaking a bone in my body. It hurst like hell but by time, it heals and the pain eases. I guess if the scratch bothers you so much, you try and fix it. Personally, I prefer not to brush off any material to have it removed and try and live with it.
Great topic and video. I will attempt a video response. I too wear them easy but also ok with some scratches if I did them.
A couple of scratches here and there are ok with me Rob. In this case however, it has a huge gash in it, it bothered me so off to the professionals it went, happy days now 😊
On a watch like that omega getting it fixed was the right thing to do ,even my beater cheap work watch is pretty good still .Mine are all ok ,the only two I wouldn’t bother too much about are a couple of bronze watches ,ones a Delma seashell that has patina all over it so on those they Look good and beat up anyway .but I prefer no scratches to be honest .My guitars are a different thing though ,scratches , dings and faded out and cream white coloured Gibson les Paul’s look better used Imo and you can’t help those getting a bit roughed up .Pleased you got it refinished ,looks perfect Peter .
Would love to hear some of those guitars in full song 🔥🔥
The Omega service center will ad (micro weld adding of Stainless Steel to and inside the gap). Then they will sand down the weld till it’s even to the rest of the case. Then the final step is to brush the side of the case to match the rest of the brushing on the entire case. Then they apply and clear coats (if those apply). Then All Done. Coasts about 130 to 150.
I advise others not to worry, at the same time I dont accept them on my watches - I have no idea why the double standard, perhaps I advise them to do what I would like to be able to do myself.
With watches I may flip I tend to remove the og bracelet without sizing it, and buy a decent third party option - this obviously stops and desk diving marks.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Thanks Peter. A helpful video for someone mulling over a recent scratch on my first luxury watch. A quick and unrelated question if that’s ok - the black strap on the Omega in the early part of the video is that yours? Looks great! If so, are you able to share details on it? Many thanks and brilliant channel btw.
Its an FKM rubber strap from Strapatelier I believe..in 19mm 👍
I just tell people that I signed an exclusionary agreement, that I’d be the only one to handle the watch when I purchased the insurance. It’s a variation of the same verbiage I used when I stopped sharing my car. Recently I’ve added my wife to that exclusionary list. People are temporarily dissatisfied but they respect the boundaries.