Disclaimer & Service Policies

Disclaimer

Crown & Balance provides watch servicing and repair for vintage and modern mechanical timepieces. While every effort is made to complete all work to the highest professional standard, all repairs and restorations involve inherent risks due to age, prior servicing history, worn components, unavailable parts, and the delicate nature of horological work.

By submitting a watch for service, the client acknowledges and agrees to the following:

  • Estimates are based on visible inspection and may change after full disassembly and diagnosis.

  • Additional issues may be discovered during servicing that were not visible during intake.

  • No repair or service can guarantee future waterproofing, shock resistance, or manufacturer specifications unless explicitly stated in writing.

  • Vintage watches may contain fragile or degraded components that can fail during normal servicing procedures despite proper care.

  • Crown & Balance is not responsible for pre-existing damage, hidden defects, previous improper repairs, or deterioration due to age.

  • Cosmetic imperfections, patina, scratches, dial aging, lume degradation, and case wear are considered part of the watch’s condition unless cosmetic restoration is specifically requested.

  • Parts availability for vintage or discontinued movements cannot be guaranteed.

  • Turnaround times are estimates only and may vary depending on parts sourcing, workload, or unforeseen complications.

  • All communications, approvals, and invoices may be handled electronically.

Service Policies

Estimates & Approvals

  • All repair work is quote-only unless a fixed-price standard service is purchased directly through the website.

  • No additional chargeable work will be performed without client approval.

  • Estimates are valid for 30 days from the date issued.

  • Declined repairs may still incur a diagnostic, return shipping, or handling fee.

Payment Policy

  • Payment is due before return shipment unless otherwise agreed in writing.

  • Accepted payment methods will be listed on the invoice or website.

  • Watches with unpaid balances after 30 days may incur storage fees.

  • Watches abandoned for extended periods may be considered forfeited in accordance with New Mexico law.

Shipping & Insurance

  • Clients are responsible for securely packaging watches during shipment to Crown & Balance.

  • Return shipping insurance coverage is limited to the declared value selected and paid for by the client.

  • Crown & Balance is not responsible for carrier delays, loss, theft, or damage once a package has been transferred to the shipping carrier.

  • Signature confirmation may be required for returned watches.

Water Resistance Policy

  • Water resistance testing is performed when applicable and possible.

  • Vintage watches are not guaranteed water resistant unless explicitly stated in writing.

  • Even after testing, water resistance can fail due to age, worn seals, case condition, or accidental misuse.

  • Crown & Balance is not liable for moisture damage occurring after delivery.

Warranty Policy

  • Standard servicing includes a limited 1-year workmanship warranty covering issues directly related to the completed service.

  • The warranty does not cover:

    • Impact or accidental damage

    • Water or moisture intrusion

    • Magnetism

    • Improper handling

    • Normal wear

    • Broken crystals, crowns, stems, or straps

    • Previously worn or failing components unrelated to the performed service

    • Watches serviced or opened by another party after return

  • Warranty claims must be evaluated by Crown & Balance before coverage is determined.

Parts & Replacement Components

  • Replacement parts may include new old stock, aftermarket, or used components when original manufacturer parts are unavailable.

  • Original replaced parts may be returned upon request unless required for core exchange or disposal.

Storage Policy

  • Completed watches must be paid for and claimed within 30 days of notification.

  • Storage fees may apply after this period.

Rolex & High-Restriction Brands

  • Crown & Balance does not service watches requiring manufacturer-restricted parts access or proprietary certifications unless explicitly accepted on a case-by-case basis.

Limitation of Liability

  • Liability for loss or damage shall not exceed the declared value provided by the client or the amount paid for service, whichever is lower.

  • Crown & Balance shall not be liable for incidental, consequential, or indirect damages arising from delays, part availability, or watch failure.

Right to Refuse Service

Crown & Balance reserves the right to refuse service on any watch for reasons including but not limited to:

  • Excessive prior damage

  • Counterfeit or modified components

  • Unreasonable restoration expectations

  • Unsafe or impractical repair conditions