Preserving History, One Watch at a Time
My name is Rob, and I am a watchmaker specializing in vintage Bulova wristwatches and American pocket watches. My bench and cabinets are filled with movements and parts dating from the late 1800s through the 1970s, many of them sourced from watchmakers’ shops that have since closed their doors. I maintain an extensive inventory of essential components needed to keep these timepieces running — balance staffs, glass and acrylic crystals, hands, stems, jewels, mainsprings, and other parts long discontinued by factories that no longer exist.
I repair watches because I believe they are more than mechanical objects; each one carries a story. These pieces represent historical craftsmanship, and many serve as family heirlooms — small vessels holding cherished memories. Whether a watch is a collector’s prize or an inexpensive keepsake worn by a parent or grandparent, it deserves the chance to keep ticking.
My Specialties
Vintage Bulova Restoration –
Bulova watches are beloved for their reliability, character, and unique movement designs – but many watchmakers refuse to service them. I have spent years building a deep inventory of original Bulova components, allowing me to perform repairs and restorations with authentic parts without having to wait for the parts to be sourced and shipped.
American Pocket Watch Repair –
Waltham, Elgin, Hamilton, Illinois – these watches represent the golden age of American Horology. I restore all grades of movements, family heirlooms, and historical pieces with respect for their original engineering and craftsmanship.
Sentimental Watch Preservation –
Many shops turn away older watches as “not worth repairing.” I don’t. Sentimental value matters, and I welcome the pieces that are special to you — even those other watchmakers might refuse. Every watch entrusted to me is treated with the same care and respect I give to any high‑value collector’s piece.
My Philosophy –
A watch doesn’t need to be expensive to be important. It just needs to matter to you.
Every restoration I perform follows three principles:
– Respect the original craftsmanship
– Use original manufacturer parts whenever possible
– Preserve the story the watch carries
My Bench –
My workshop is built around precision and vintage watchmaker tools, vintage parts drawers, and a deep love for mechanical timekeeping. Every watch is carefully inspected, disassembled, cleaned, lubricated, regulated, and tested to ensure it runs as it should.