Morning all

Events have delayed me sorting out replacement batteries for some CW pieces, including several of the Christopher Ward C70 Grand Prix Chronometer Limited Editions. My watches are in mint condition, and therefore I wouldn’t want the beautiful casebacks damaged in any way.
In another time, I’d probably tackle the job myself, but a neurological illness doesn’t allow this option. I’ve heard some very high prices mentioned for CW to replace, which for a relatively simple job, goes across the grain a little, although I know it’s an industry wide situation.

I’d very much welcome the wisdom of forum members, to give me a push in the right direction, and perhaps give some approximate prices too? I’m in the UK btw.

Thanks in advance

A warm welcome to the forum.

I’m sure you’ll get some answers.

@Seatime - welcome to the forum and I'm sorry to hear that all is not well with you.

Batteries for your C70 Grand Prix Chronometer Limited Editions?

You'll no doubt get recommendations to use a variety of Independents but, personally, I prefer to stick with CW, they know the watches and are the only people to have the correct spares (as required). CW does not supply parts to third parties.

My last two battery replacements by CW were in November '23 on a C7 MkI 47 AD and C4 BBMF. Cost was £52.10 each. A tad pricy, a year earlier it had been quite a bit less, but this price includes postage Royal Mail Special Delivery both ways (CW sends you a Returns Pack) and a pressure test on the watch.

To get this organised, rather than using the online Service / Returns request on CW's website, where you may not have all the relevant information to complete the form, I start the process with an email to; repairs@christopherward.co.uk

Good luck.

Guy

Thank you, Guy.

I really can’t fault any of your logic, and therefore I’m already leaning towards sending the watches to CW. All the watches are in superb condition, that I’m loathe to risk any problems whatsoever. I guess I was just being too financially cautious, I’m probably just a bit frustrated, as I used to be pretty good at attending to my pieces in such situations!

I really appreciate the ideas of costs too, as it’s not quite as bad as I feared!

Many thanks to all who welcome me and make helpful contributions.

For reference, I have a nothing special C7 that needed a new battery. Here in the US I took it to my local jeweler who replaced the battery and cleaned inside the case. After cleaning, they ran a simple pressure test on the watch. It was 20 USD all in. Mind you, the watch is in only fair condition and is treated decently but not really good care. Sound like going to CW directly, especially if UK based, for watches in VGC makes sense for their experience with the parts and all.

I suppose it depends how you remove the case back. If it's.not so simple there's bound to be scope for scratching something. I wouldn't fancy paying £50 for a battery change even though it comes with other stuff. I imagine if you want to be sure it's watertight, that's worth a premium though.

There’s no magic to this and it would be misguided to think that CW would take any more care than a good independent.

When I say ‘independent’ I don’t mean any old jewellers that might offer watch servicing, but an actual watchmaker with a reputation to uphold.

You are looking at one hours worth of labour (max), to include pressure testing and a battery of around £2.50.

Edit: you might even be charged 50p for a gasket.

I just want to take the opportunity to thank all those who’ve commented.
I’m going to pay a call to well renowned independent jewellers not too far away, who also service watches and replace batteries to see how much they would charge. If I’m unsatisfied with them in any way, I’ll send the watches to CW.

Thanks again