Stopped running I am having problems with my 1911, roughly 5 years old, it just stopped working. I sent it in and was told it needed an overhaul, it was gummed up from the lubricant etc and was told that that needed to be done every 3 to 5 years. I told what are you kidding me at 560.00 repair cost.I told them that I have a tissot automatic that is almost 30 years old and never needed service, and that the price I paid for this most beautiful watch,almost 5 grand, it should be almost bullet proof. has anyone had similar problems? [email protected]

Let me tell you that the ebel 1911 chrono has the ebel calibre 137, based on Zenith El Primero 400, which beats at 36600 bph. Most watches beat at 21600 bph or 28800 bph. Zenith EL Primero is the one which more beats in the watch world and its truly a gem. You should have of course sent it out to servicing 3 years ago. Watches like this suffer more than other mechanical watches. I am not surprised that they asked 560 usd for a repairing service. Even lower automatic chrono watches like the hamilton or tissot chronos with eta 7750 do have expensive servicing too, about 250 usd.. Read more about watch servicing and you will know more about your watches care. Dont you replace your car tires after some miles? Why dont you service your watch then? Best Regards Manuel

Unfortunately watch service is often calculated based on the value of the watch, as insurance, and quality/cost of materials and spares and tools are factors. With the correct lubricant there should be no reason why a quality watch should need that particular job done so regularly, but a 4/5-yearly service is not a bad idea at all, as most problems with this sort of watch can be avoided with regular maintenance. Hope this helps :)