At Strange the Jewellers, we pride ourselves on being a trusted, independent jeweller in Wokingham, offering high-quality jewellery and watch repairs. Whether you're looking to restore a family heirloom, resize a ring, or repair a broken watch, we’re here to help! Below, we’ve answered 20 common questions customers ask about our jewellery and watch repair services.
1. Do you offer on-site jewellery repair services?
Yes, we offer a range of repairs directly in our store. On-site services include replacing broken clasps, restringing bracelets and necklaces, rhodium plating, and polishing out scratches on rings. For more complex repairs, such as stone resetting, ring resizing, or intricate chain repairs, we work closely with two highly skilled specialist workshops to ensure the best results for your jewellery.
2. How long does a typical jewellery repair take?
For on-site repairs, we aim to complete the work as quickly as possible, typically within 24-48 hours, depending on how busy we are. For repairs that need to be sent to our specialist workshops, the usual turnaround is 10-14 days, though this can vary based on the complexity of the job. For example, if you need a missing gemstone replaced, the workshop may need to consult with stone dealers to find a stone that perfectly matches the colour, clarity, and cut of the others in your ring. In some cases, the stone may even need to be specially cut or polished, which can add to the timeframe. We will always provide you with an estimated timeframe when quoting for the repair.
3. Can you repair broken chains or clasps on necklaces and bracelets?
Absolutely! Chain repairs and clasp replacements are some of the most common repairs we handle. Whether it's a broken link or a faulty clasp, we’ll make sure your necklace or bracelet is restored to its original condition.
4. Do you provide resizing services for rings?
We work closely with trusted specialist workshops to ensure your ring is resized with the highest level of craftsmanship. Whether your ring needs to be made larger or smaller, these workshops are skilled in working with various metals, including gold, platinum, and silver, as well as a wide range of ring styles. For more intricate designs, such as those with gemstones or engravings, the workshop takes extra care to ensure the resizing process doesn’t compromise the ring’s appearance or structural integrity.
5. How much does it cost to resize a ring?
The cost of resizing a ring can vary depending on several factors, including the type of metal, how much the size needs to be adjusted, and the complexity of the design. For example, resizing a simple silver band is generally less expensive than resizing a gold ring with intricate detailing or gemstone settings, which may require additional work. The cost to make a ring larger can also be higher than making it smaller, as it may involve adding extra metal. We’ll assess your ring and provide a detailed quote before any work begins, ensuring there are no surprises.
6. Can you replace missing gemstones or diamonds in a piece of jewellery?
Yes, we can replace missing gemstones or diamonds in your jewellery. Whether it’s a precious stone like a diamond or a semi-precious stone like amethyst or topaz, we take great care in sourcing a matching replacement. To ensure that the new stone perfectly matches the existing ones, we may arrange a meeting with our trusted stone dealers. During this process, we focus on matching the colour, clarity, and cut of the replacement stone to the others in your piece. This meticulous attention to detail helps maintain the integrity and aesthetic of your jewellery. In some cases, if the stone requires specific polishing or finishing, we will handle that as well, ensuring the final result looks seamless and beautiful.
7. Do you repair antique or vintage jewellery?
Yes, our specialist workshop is equipped to handle repairs on antique and vintage jewellery. Their expertise ensures that these delicate pieces are treated with the utmost care and restored to their original beauty. We understand the sentimental value of such items, so you can trust that your treasured heirlooms are in good hands with our skilled professionals.
8. What kind of warranty do you offer on your repair services?
We stand by the quality of our repair work and offer a 12-month warranty on most services. This warranty covers any issues related to workmanship, ensuring that if something goes wrong within that period, we will take care of it at no additional cost. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we want you to feel confident in the repairs we provide.
9. Do you offer engraving services for jewellery?
Yes, we offer engraving services on pieces bought from us through a specialist engraver. They are skilled in various techniques, including hand engraving, seal engraving, and laser engraving. This includes the ability to engrave intricate designs and even fingerprints for a truly personal touch. Whether you’re looking to add a meaningful message to a piece or create a unique design, our engraver will work with you to bring your vision to life.
10. Can you clean and polish my jewellery during the repair process?
Absolutely! We offer complimentary cleaning and polishing with most repair services to restore your jewellery’s sparkle and shine. If your piece has been well-loved and needs a little extra care, we’ll ensure it looks its best. Additionally, we also provide standalone cleaning and polishing services if you simply want to refresh your jewellery without any repairs. Just bring in your items, and we’ll be happy to assist!
11. How do you ensure the safety of my jewellery while it is being repaired?
Your jewellery's safety is our top priority. All items are fully insured while in our care, giving you peace of mind. When you bring your jewellery for repair, we store it securely in a designated area to minimize the risk of loss or damage. We maintain a detailed log of every piece, complete with photographs and descriptions, allowing us to track each item throughout the repair process. For repairs that need to go to our specialist workshops, we package your pieces securely to protect them during transit. Our skilled staff is trained to handle jewellery with care, ensuring that your treasured items are treated with the respect they deserve. You can trust that your jewellery is in safe hands from the moment it enters our store until the repair is complete.
12. Do you repair watches, and what brands do you service?
Yes, we repair watches and offer several services on-site, including battery replacements, bracelet cleans, and strap replacements. For more extensive repairs, we work with a highly skilled team of horologists. Our team is fully accredited in the repair and servicing of luxury brands, including Rolex, Tag Heuer, Breitling, Cartier, and Omega. With a BA (Hons) in Horology and membership in the British Horological Institute, our horologists bring extensive knowledge and expertise to every watch they service. This combination of formal training and hands-on experience allows us to handle a wide range of watch repairs, from routine maintenance to complex mechanical issues. Whether your watch needs a simple service or a complete overhaul, you can trust our experts to provide the highest level of care for your timepiece.
13. Can you replace the battery in my watch?
Yes, we can replace the battery on-site! The cost for a standard watch battery replacement is £12. If you'd like your watch to be pressure tested to 70 meters after the battery replacement, the fee is £25. We also change batteries on diving watches, but this service is handled by our horologist and costs £65, as it requires specialized knowledge and equipment to ensure the watch maintains its water resistance. Just bring your watch in, and we’ll take care of the rest!
14. Do you offer watch strap replacements?
Yes, we offer watch strap replacements! We have a selection of leather and luxury Italian leather straps available in-store. If you’re looking for something specific, we can also order straps tailored for brands like Citizen, Bering, and Elliot Brown. Whether you want to refresh the look of your watch or replace a worn-out strap, we’ll help you find the perfect fit!
15. What is the cost to replace a watch crystal or glass?
The cost to replace a watch crystal or glass can vary depending on several factors. A replacement is necessary if your watch glass is chipped, cracked, missing, or scratched. Factors influencing the price include the type of glass required—whether it’s a manufacturer’s original part, a generic option, or a custom-cut piece. Additionally, the material plays a significant role; options range from mineral glass to sapphire crystal, with sapphire being more expensive due to its durability and scratch resistance. The complexity of the watch design can also affect the cost, as some watches may require specialized tools or techniques for the replacement. We can discuss all these options once we receive your watch to help you find the best solution for your needs and budget.
16. How long does a watch repair typically take?
For simple services, a battery replacement typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes, while a strap replacement can be done within minutes. However, for more complex repairs, there’s no such thing as a quick fix. These can take 8 weeks or longer, depending on the nature of the repair and whether we need to source specific parts. We will provide an estimated timeframe when you bring in your watch, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what to expect.
17. Do you service automatic and mechanical watches?
Yes, we service both automatic and mechanical watches, working with a skilled team of watch repairers. During the servicing process, the watch movement is completely stripped down, and all components are disassembled and ultrasonically cleaned to remove old lubricating oils. Each part is thoroughly inspected, with worn components either repaired or replaced as needed. After the cleaning and inspection, the movement is carefully reassembled, re-lubricated with the correct oils, and regulated to ensure optimal accuracy. Finally, the watch undergoes resealing and is polished both by machine and by hand to achieve a stunning finish. They then pressure test the watch to ensure it is water-resistant. At completion, each timepiece is not only mechanically sound but also looks fantastic. We provide a 2-year guarantee on all service work, giving you confidence in the longevity of your watch.
18. Is it possible to get an estimate before the repair work is done?
Absolutely! We always provide an estimate before starting any repair work. If any unforeseen issues arise during the repair process, we’ll contact you before proceeding with additional work.
19. Do you offer same-day or express repair services?
Yes, for simple repairs like battery replacements or minor chain fixes, we often offer same-day or next-day service, depending on how busy we are. If you need a quick turnaround, just let us know, and we'll do our best to accommodate your request. However, for more complex repairs, we’ll provide you with an estimated timeframe when you bring in your item. Our goal is to ensure you receive your jewellery or watch back as promptly as possible without compromising on quality.
20. What payment methods do you accept for repairs?
We accept a variety of payment methods for our repair services, including cash, credit and debit cards, and contactless payments. If you have any specific preferences or need assistance with the payment process, feel free to ask our staff, and we'll be happy to help!
Conclusion
At Strange the Jewellers, we are committed to providing exceptional jewellery and watch repair services to our valued customers in Wokingham. Whether you're looking to restore a cherished piece, ensure your watch is functioning perfectly, or simply maintain the beauty of your jewellery, our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way.
We understand the importance of your treasured items, and our focus on quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction sets us apart as a trusted independent jeweller. If you have any further questions or would like to discuss a specific repair, don’t hesitate to visit our store or contact us. We look forward to serving you and helping you keep your jewellery and watches in pristine condition!