Just received a pocket watch my great grandfather used when he was a coal miner back in England.  I'm sure the watch is not extremely valuable but I would like to get it looked at and repaired to working condition if possible.  I'd also like an appraisal just in case it is something of value so I can insure it accordingly if necessary.  Does anyone have any recommendations on a repair specialist in the Northern half of the state?

Freehold jewelers

(732) 845-1600

ask for charlie hes the owner. Im not positive that hell do it but if he says yes hes the best around.

That's great to have something like that. An issue getting it to work might be sourcing parts, or finding someone that can make the parts necessary. Note that I don't have first hand experience with any of the following recs:

 

1. These guys are well-known, but in Brooklyn and won't be cheap. Don't let the 80s website design fool you.

 

www.superiorwatch.com

 

2. You can also try doing a search on this site:

 

http://directory.awci.com/search_results.php?keyword=nj&category=&location=&zip_miles=&submit_search=Search

 

You'll find a lot of the jewelry stores that do watch repairs will actually send it out to one of the guys in the above list.

 

3. You can try browsing around on www.timezone.com. If you post up pictures of the watch (even better if you're comfortable opening it up to show the movement), there might be knowledgeable people on the forum that can help out.

 

Whatever you do, stay far away from the shopping mall watch repair kiosks.

Get references if you are truly concerned.

I had an antique pocket watch repaired by a so called expert and he e'ffed up an irreplaceable crystal.

 

And be advised, some jewelers will scratch their "mark" somewhere on the inside for ID purposes. I did not care for the mark on mine, but it is what it is. 

I'm not sure about pocket watches, but I had a Vintage Gold Watch repaired by John at Farfo. He did a phenomenal job. I would not hesitate to send him any of my antique wristwatches. I would send him an email or give him a call. I don't think you will find anyone better. He has good prices, but great craftsmanship.

 

http://www.farfo.com/antique_watch_repair/vintage-watch-repair.html