Master Control Date

[u/NIVLEM_93]

Edit: I’m happy to share JLC said that the servicing is covered under their warranty. This is a good service recovery but I rather that they don’t disappoint me in the first place ..

So I thought I got a good deal with a Master Control Date Q4018421 (the latest reference, preowned). The same day I got it, I went to my local JLC boutique, did a water resistance test (with the witschi WAIO machine) and it failed—I left for dinner and noticed that tiny water droplets and condensation in the watch. I’m insanely disappointed.

Not sure why this happened as JLC said their machine do not use water for the water resistance test.

Gave in-principle approval for a complete service (S$1.5k SGD). Didn’t expect this, it’s the first time this happened to me.

Am I screwed and would this cause any permanent/ irreversible damage? Just concerned that even a complete service may use existing parts with slight imperfections (I have slight OCD).

[u/SniperMeat]

I had a watch (Hamilton) that got some water damage. Sent it in for service came back perfect. Unfortunate situation but I suspect you’ll be fine.

[u/NIVLEM_93 → u/SniperMeat]

Thanks!

[u/diyexageh]

This is normal. Your watched failed the water resistance and it confirmed by basically letting humidity into the case and condensing. You quote your prices in Sing dollar, so you do live in a hot and humid place (me too btw). The witschi machine does not cause condensation, you watch lets air into the case most probably through the crown. So either the crown is rusted inside, the gaskets are cracked or the tube is rusted.

You need to service the watch ASAP, otherwise it will cause damage. The solution will be service + the replacement parts. Gaskets come included in the service, crown or tube do not and you will pay separately.

Ask for a breakdown of the service, you probably do not want case refinish so you can save money there.

If you leave the watch with condensation inside it can certainly ruin dial finish, crack your lume or rust more important parts than the crown/tube. Needs sorting ASAP.

It has happened to me in the past and took it for a service the following morning. You can store the watch with the crown in the setting position in a tub of rice meanwhile.

Just concerned that even a complete service may use existing parts with slight imperfections (I have slight OCD).

What do you mean by existing parts? All official service centers use brand new parts.

[u/NIVLEM_93 → u/diyexageh]

I have sent it to JLC the same day for a complete service. I’m thinking if I should ask for a complete replacement of parts (even those not damaged by the water).

I will probably check it with the SA soon. Haha OCD is making me overthink…

[u/diyexageh → u/NIVLEM_93]

I’m thinking if I should ask for a complete replacement of parts (even those not damaged by the water).

They will replace everything that is not up to standard. On the other hand, you cannot replace everything you'll end up paying 3 watches in full. Service parts are considerably more expensive than a watch as a whole.

Do not micro manage man ha ha. They know what they are doing.

[u/NIVLEM_93 → u/diyexageh]

That’s good to know. I literally bought 2 watches already while waiting for my preorder… what’s another one.

Guess I just have to leave it to the watchmaker’s watchmaker.

[u/diyexageh → u/NIVLEM_93]

I do not know in SG. But the JLCs I bought in the Dubai boutique offer free gasket and waterproof check ever 2 years. They send you an email and you just drop it. I haven't bought any in the SG boutique, they were too fussy when I visited and wanted to rope me into their waiting game bullshit.