Re-Plating A 9Ct Watch Case

[Davey57]

Anyone had a case replated? I have an old wristwatch that I quite like the style of, very slim with nice patina on the dial but the gold plating is rubbed away on several places. It's not an expensive piece but I think it could look so much better. Found a company that do such things, just wondered what the results are like and whether anyone would recommend it.

[bobm12]

My understanding is companies charge a lot of money for that kind of job...I've been entertaining doing the same with a watch I consider special in my collection but prices were not convenient. I think Joe had send a watch to a company he mentioned once. Maybe he will chip in at some point with the link.

[ausimax]

I researched getting a gold plate watch case replated here in Aus, quoted something like $350.00 watch new didn't cost that much, a polish with a gold polishing cloth can sometimes work wonders.

[bobm12]

There is a commercial kit for plating but I'm told it doesn't last on watches...It uses swab like plating things they call wands. To me, it's way too expensive considering the reviews.

[Davey57]

I had no idea it would cost anything like that amount. Certainly not worth it in this case.

Just out of curiosity I might contact them for a quote, can't do any harm.

Thanks for the comments.

[ro63rto]

As a guide, in London, a jeweller quotes. ...

"£6 per micron/per inch. That would be roughly, both sides of a postage stamp."

[Davey57]

Well that might not work out too bad?

Only one way to find out, I will try and get a quote.

Will report back with the costs in case anyone else is interested.

[Davey57]

I had a reply to my enquiry about plating the watch.

The cost would be £65 9ct with return postage.

To be honest I think that would be worth considering if it were a watch that had some value to me, either monetary or sentimental.

As it is just an old thing that came with a bunch of other old watches that I bought I can not really justify spending that amount of money on it. At least we have an idea of cost now if anyone else is keen on doing something.

Not sure if I am allowed to name the company from whom I received the quote, but I imagine it would be ok if you sent me a pm.

Just to add I have no connection in any way with the company concerned.

Here is the watch that I sent pictures of in case you are interested.