Client Experiences
Perspectives from timepiece owners who have trusted us with their valued possessions
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Robert Tremblay
Montreal, QC
"My grandfather's pocket watch had been sitting in a drawer for years because I couldn't find anyone I trusted to work on it. Jean-Pierre took the time to explain what needed attention and provided realistic expectations. The completed restoration exceeded my hopes while respecting the watch's history. Now I can carry it knowing it's properly maintained."
September 2025
Sophie Lefebvre
Laval, QC
"After water damage ruined my watch movement, I was concerned about repair costs and feasibility. The team provided clear assessment and fair pricing. They kept me updated throughout the process and explained maintenance practices to prevent future issues. Their knowledge and transparency impressed me considerably."
October 2025
David Martinez
Quebec City, QC
"I needed pressure testing after noticing condensation under the crystal. The service was thorough and they identified a worn crown tube requiring replacement. While it took slightly longer than initially estimated due to parts sourcing, the communication was excellent and the final result met my expectations."
September 2025
Elizabeth Bergeron
Gatineau, QC
"The hand restoration service transformed my vintage watch's appearance. Bent minute hand and faded luminous material had made it difficult to read. Marie-Claude carefully straightened the hands and applied new lume while maintaining the dial's original character. The improvement in legibility and aesthetics was substantial."
October 2025
André Moreau
Trois-Rivières, QC
"As a collector, I appreciate craftsmen who understand the importance of originality preservation. When my railroad-grade pocket watch needed service, they used appropriate techniques for the era and maintained all original components where feasible. Their documentation of the work performed adds value to my collection records."
September 2025
Catherine Gagnon
Sherbrooke, QC
"My watch had been losing significant time daily. The diagnosis revealed worn pivot holes and mainspring issues. The estimate was fair and they explained repair options clearly. Following the service, timing improved substantially. I appreciate their patient explanations about realistic performance expectations for a watch of this age."
October 2025
Success Stories
Family Heirloom Restoration
Initial Challenge
A client brought in his great-grandfather's pocket watch that had been stored improperly for decades. The hunter case mechanism was frozen, the dial showed significant crazing, and the movement had stopped completely. Previous repair attempts had left some incorrect replacement parts and damaged screws.
Our Approach
We documented the watch's condition thoroughly, including photographs of all existing issues. After careful disassembly, we identified several worn components including pivot holes, damaged wheel teeth, and a broken mainspring. The hunter case received specialized attention to restore proper spring tension without compromising the delicate mechanism. We sourced period-appropriate replacement parts and documented provenance through serial number research.
Results Achieved
The pocket watch now runs within acceptable parameters for its age and design. The hunter case operates smoothly, and the dial's appearance stabilized through careful conservation. Most importantly, the client received detailed documentation about the watch's history and manufacturer, enhancing both sentimental and historical value. Timeline: six weeks from initial assessment to completion.
Water Damage Recovery
Initial Challenge
A diving watch suffered water intrusion during a recreational dive, resulting in visible moisture under the crystal and stopping the movement. The owner waited several days before seeking service, allowing corrosion to begin forming on some components. Previous seal service had been performed incorrectly with inappropriate gasket materials.
Our Approach
Immediate disassembly revealed corrosion on the dial, hands, and some movement components. We performed ultrasonic cleaning with appropriate solutions, replaced corroded parts, and refinished affected surfaces. All seals received replacement with correct materials for the watch's rating. We pressure tested to verify water resistance at multiple stages during reassembly.
Results Achieved
The watch movement operates reliably with proper timing regulation. New seals passed pressure testing to manufacturer specifications. We provided detailed guidance about proper maintenance schedules and early warning signs of seal deterioration. The client received education about crown operation and usage limitations. Timeline: two weeks including parts procurement and extended testing.
Vintage Dial Preservation
Initial Challenge
A collector's vintage watch featured a pristine dial marred by severely bent hands from a previous mishandling incident. The hour markers showed signs of loosening, and the luminous material had degraded substantially. The client prioritized maintaining the dial's original condition while improving functionality.
Our Approach
We carefully removed damaged hands using proper tools to prevent further dial damage. Hand straightening employed specialized fixtures ensuring no finish loss. Loose hour markers received professional reattachment using appropriate adhesive. For luminous restoration, we offered options between preservation and modern application, ultimately applying period-correct material matching the original appearance.
Results Achieved
The restored hands maintain proper clearance and alignment while preserving original finish. Hour markers sit securely, and luminous material provides improved visibility without compromising authenticity. The dial's pristine condition remained intact throughout the work. The client expressed satisfaction with the balance between preservation and functional improvement. Timeline: ten days from assessment to completion.
Contact Information
Visit Our Workshop
1010 Sherbrooke Street West
Suite 1800
Montreal, QC H3A 2R7
By appointment preferred
Walk-ins welcome during business hours
Business Hours
Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Extended hours by appointment
Trust Indicators and Credentials
Professional Training
Our craftsmen completed formal horological training through recognized institutions including Swiss watchmaking schools and WOSTEP certification programs. Continued education maintains current knowledge of repair techniques and industry standards.
Three Decades Experience
Established in 1994, swiss preen has served Montreal's watch community for over thirty years. This extended tenure demonstrates consistent quality and client satisfaction across thousands of successful repairs and restorations.
Specialized Equipment
Our facility maintains professional-grade equipment including timing machines, pressure testing apparatus, ultrasonic cleaning systems, and specialized tools required for various movement types. Regular calibration ensures accuracy and reliability.
Transparent Practices
We provide detailed written estimates before commencing work, communicate promptly about any complications, and maintain clear records of services performed. Our approach prioritizes honest assessment over sales pressure or unnecessary recommendations.
Experience Our Service Quality
We welcome the opportunity to discuss your watch repair needs and provide honest assessment of recommended services.