What time do you wear?

Albertporter,
I have been in the jewelry industry for over 30 years, and I also happen to own an Omega Seamaster GMT (stainless steel). Several years ago, because of corporate reorganization, they nearly destroyed their reputation because of poor customer service in regard to repairs. That problem has been addressed now.
I don't know where you live, but I recommend that you find a private watchmaker who has a good reputation, and allow him to do the work for you. It is absolutely a myth that only the facotry can do excellent repairs and overhauls. A good place to start is the jewelry district in the nearest large city. Ask around for referrals. If that is not possible, do an internet seach for your area.
Rolex is a different story. They are absolute control freaks, and even though their movements are quite conventional,(think Honda) they manage to get a majority of their out of warranty work sent to them because they will only release parts to dealers, and exclude most (but not all) private watchmakers.
I believe, based on my experience that you were correct to decline the estimate you received. I think that you should be able to have the watch overhauled for $600.00 or thereabouts. Check araound. Also, remember that bracelet refinishing is an extra charge. Also, remember that the jeweler is the middleman, and they are tacking on a healthy profit margin to what Omega is actually charging them. I say that assuming that you went through a jeweler instead of contacting Omega directly. In any case, my advice would still be the same.

Roxy54, thank you for that information.

One jeweler told me Omega is now owned by Swatch and that change is what brought on all the customer service and PR issues, including increased repair cost.

My previous service years ago, I sent my Seamaster direct to Switzerland. The invoice was almost exactly the number you mentioned and the watch looked and worked perfect in every way.

Part of me wishes I had a Rolex again. My Rolex was no more or less accurate than other mechanical watches but service was fast, fair and reasonable.

I own a few watches, but the main one worth mentioning is my Baume & Mercier....Love it! It's an automatic, self-winding unit. An automatic watch is to Analog LP like a Quartz watch is to Digital Compact Disc! Interesting Analogy I think!

I have owned an Omega Seamaster since 1994. In early 2001, I was living in Germany and it started losing time so I took it to a jeweler who sent it back to Omega Switzerland for an overhaul. It cost me just 400DM ($200) and that included new hands, stem, oring and band parts. They gave me back all of the old parts. I wear the watch almost every day and it is still keeping good time. The red on the hands have faded again a bit, but otherwise the watch still looks great. Since being back in the US, I have been wondering what I should do when it is time for another servicing.

awci.com american Watchmakers Clockmakers Institute. Lists certified watchmakers in your area.