The "Doctor" is Always In!

Can You Get Genuine Rolex Replacement Parts? vs Omega Parts

“Do you use genuine parts during an overhaul?”  This is usually the first question that every Rolex customer asks me.  My normal answer is a bit like this:  During a basic overhaul, I should not need to replace any parts as long as the watch is in decent working condition.  If I do need parts, I try to source genuine parts ,then if they are not available,  I have good.. Read More

Rolex vs Omega: Case Tube & Crown

In this weeks post, I will compare the crown and case tube between a standard Rolex and an Omega Seamaster.  This is one of the biggest differences between the two watches and why I like the Rolex so much better than the Omega. Rolex Case Tube The Rolex case tube is a simple threaded stainless steel part with an internal gasket installed. It is the essence of simplicity, you unscrew.. Read More

Questions for the Watch Doctor

This week’s blog post is going to go into a bit of detail on how I do my business, what watches that I will work on,  and why I don’t work on certain watches. First, please keep in mind that I repair watches full time as a “business”. This is not a hobby.  I graduated from the Bulova School of Watchmaking in 1977 and have worked for the past 38.. Read More

Rolex vs Omega Date Mechanism

In this weeks post ,we will take a look at the date mechanisn in a  Rolex 3035 and the Omega Co-Axial.    The Omega uses an ETA type date that has been aroud for many years.  It is simple, sturdy and works great.  It is very easy to service, no hidden springs to cause trouble and is one of my favorites to repair.   The Rolex works well, but is.. Read More

Rolex vs Omega – Train Wheels and Mainspring

In this weeks post, we will examine the differences between the train wheels and mainspring in a Rolex 3135 and an Omega Co-Axial movement. There are quite a few differences in this part of the comparison. Rolex Train Wheels First the train wheels.    On the Rolex, you will notice that the 4 train wheels are rather large and quite sturdy.  The teeth are of normal size, not too big.. Read More

Rolex vs Omega – Escapement comparison

This weeks Post will compare the Escapement between the Rolex 3135 and Omega’s Co-Axial movement.  This is really the heart of the movement and the fundamental difference between the two watches. Standard Lever Escapement Standard escape wheel, pallet and balance wheel Considering the escapement as a unit, it can be seen that the escape wheel supplies the power, whereas the pallet transfers the rotary motion of the escape wheel into.. Read More

Rolex vs Omega: Which Is the Better Watch?

Over the next few weeks I will be doing a series of Blog posts on a head to head matchup between a Rolex Datejust 3135 movement and an Omega CoAxial Seamaster Pro model. I want to compare various design aspects of each watch and give you my opinion of which I like best and why.  I will explore the Automatic unit, the escapement, date functions, crown and case tube, crystal.. Read More

Watches from World War I

Until the late 19th and early 20th Centuries, men who needed to know the time and who had the money to afford a watch, kept it in their pocket on a chain. Women, for some reason, were the trailblazers – Elizabeth I had a small clock she could strap to her arm.   It is not true that wristwatches were invented specifically for World War One – but it is.. Read More

Rolex vs a Ford Pickup Truck

You may be wondering what the relationship is between an expensive Rolex watch and a Ford Pickup truck.  My idea is simple:  People buy a very expensive Rolex (anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000) and then they proceed to wear it swimming, gardening, and just literally “beat the heck” out of it.   On the other hand, people buy a very expensive truck that is made as a work vehicle and.. Read More

Is the Apple Watch the Future of Watches?

The idea of this blog is this simple question: is the Apple watch the future of the watch business or just a passing fad? Watches were originally only owned by the rich and famous, a sure sign of status and power. As watches became cheaper and more reliable, they fast became a part of just about every person’s daily wear.  Everyone had a watch and the simple idea of staying.. Read More