KEN, was wrong. My watch has worked perfectly these past three-plus years because Mirza at Swiss Service Center in La Grange knew how to repair a Swiss Army watch and in a timely manner. KEN's childish name calling aside, I highly recommend Swiss Service Center for watch repair. read more

Fine Swiss Watch Repair - Watch repair service center. - Watch Repair Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

What a great person! Kent was amazing and so was his work on my timepiece. Knowledgeable and trustworthy is obviously what you want when dealing with these type of things and Kent is both. If you find you have to drop off your watch for repair or service, I found it to be in great hands with Kent - so worry not. And estimates are no charge! read more

I have been a Yelp member for many years and have never felt the urge or need to leave a review . After visiting Kent today, I just had to write this to convey how amazing and skilled he is. He was able to fix a problem with my watch in under 5 minutes when multiple other watch repair shops said it was impossible. I cannot overstate how amazing he is. Bring your watches here with confidence read more

I've never had a manual watch before and was intimidated to ask for help. I brought it in thinking it was broken, but turns out I just didn't know how to wind it properly! Kent was so patient and kind and taught me what I needed to do. I will definitely be returning with any future business. read more

My Master Watch Maker (Kent Mikolite) of Fine Swiss Watch Repair here in Chicago. Kent Mikolite of Fine Swiss Watch Repair has more than 10 Diplomas from leading watch manufacturers. He has been featured in the Chicago Tribune newspaper for his work! Kent will take your watch completely apart. Piece by piece! Clean polish oil and calibrate. Unlike a watch repair! A really great guy to talk watches with. He is also a Certified Accu-tech! He has overhauled two of my Bulova's and a Bulova Accutron so far. read more

Excellent, knowledgeable, service! I stopped in unannounced today to have Kent Mikolite (the watchmaker) take a look at a very expensive watch I bought through an online dealer. It had a strap that needed repair, but I also wanted him to verify for me that it was indeed genuine. He took the time out of his VERY busy day to open the case, look at the parts, and tell me that it definitely was the real article. The repair for the band and his inspection of my watch...again, with no notice...cost $10! I felt like he deserved more, but that was the price. Kent is a certified (I believe that is the term) Rolex watchmaker, so as you can imagine, he is highly skilled at what he does. Super nice person as well! What a GREAT find. I will be back, 100%! read more

When something breaks and you take it in for repair, very rarely do you get unexpectedly good news. That, for instance, the repair will be easier, faster, and / or cheaper than you expected. Well, I took my watch to Fine Swiss Watch Repair and Kent had all sorts of good news for me. Seems like the kind of guy who'll have good news for you, too. read more

I am sure that Kent knows how to fix watches, I wouldn't know because he had 2 of mine for 4 months with no progress. I think Kent should hire someone to manage his business because he has no clue how to communicate with people and has terrible business practices. read more

Second update. (May 6th 2014) First a few corrections, the Glashutte service was 700 dollars, not 500. Also, Kent's assistant and Kent contacted me today about my negative review. First, Kent denied having worked on the Glashutte but anyone who wants can PM me their email and I'll forward them the email thread of our correspondence regarding that watch. Then Kent went on to describe his credentials in a private message (I know his credentials very well, which was the reason I'd gone to Kent in the first place). After explaining to Kent that I'm simply describing the negative experience I had, he proceeded to complain that he had "not been given a second chance" with the watches. This is simply untrue for both cases. For the first watch, I had called Kent to complain about the abnormal rate after the overhaul as well as screw heads which had their slots slightly deformed but Kent said it was normal. For the MIH I'd sent Kent an email saying the issue had returned but it was never replied to. Kent then went on to declare that "if" he had been given a second chance he would have corrected the issue and/or given me a refund. So I offered to provide evidence that the watches indeed weren't repaired properly, but then he reverted to complain that he wasn't given a second chance so it would be unfair to give me any refund. It seemed quite strange that initially he offered to correct the issue/give a refund but declared I had no evidence, but when evidence was available, he complained that he didn't get a chance to fix the watches again. I'm not sure about other collectors, but I wouldn't let someone who mucked up a repair by marring parts of the watch touch that watch again... Regarding the strap which I was promised in 2 weeks but didn't hear about for a month and a half, Kent declared he was "too busy" to call. While that is perhaps a relevant and real reason, being busy is a very poor excuse for poor service. Unfortunately, we weren't able to come to a resolution despite him asking me to remove this review so here it is. I'll be glad to give more details along with photos and email threads to anyone who may be curious or skeptical about my experience. ******* Update to my previous review: I used to take my jobs to Kent for work, but I've stopped going altogether and here's why. I'll admit Kent is a really nice guy but his work does not seem to be up to par. First I had him service a Glashutte for over 500 (it was 700 dollars) dollars (full overhaul), when I got the watch back it was running fine if worn daily but if left for one day the rate would deviate greatly. I eventually got access to a timing machine and found the amplitude to be wildly below spec. I ended up trading the watch in and the watch had to be overhauled by a more competent watchmaker. Thinking this may have been an isolated incident, I had a Valjoux 7750 based chronograph that wasn't resetting. So I gave it to kent who said he could "overhaul the Valjoux 7750's blindfolded." 3 hours and 100 dollars later the watch seemed to work again but a few days after the chronograph had the same issue. Additionally, there was dust on the dial and the seconds hand was marred (brass showing through the black coating). Since it was still under warranty the watch had to be sent back to Switzerland for a full overhaul. Perhaps stupidly again I decided to order a strap through Kent (what could possibly go wrong, right?) I paid on the spot but three weeks later I had neither heard from Kent nor gotten the strap. I went back and got my money back, Kent was quite good about giving the refund. I really want to like FSWR but with these three continuous poor and overpriced experiences over the course of 2 years I can't recommend the service. Sorry Kent... ******* My previous 4 star review from 11/24/2012 First of all Kent's a great guy and a certified master watchmaker as well as a Rolex certified technician which means he can get genuine Rolex parts. I wouldn't hesitate to have him service watches Rolex and below but I would highly recommend that you use manufacturer services for high end watches (VC, JLC, PP, AP). His rates for mechanical service are reasonable but definitely not cheap like others have described. His location is very convenient and I continue to go to him for smaller jobs. Cash and cheque only! read more

Dear watch fans, I have been going to Fine Swiss Watch Repair for years. I have taken my high end watches, Rolex, Panerais, vintage chronographs, budget watches, battery operated watches here for a variety of service. The service is top notch as he is an AWI watch maker. The place is located in the loop near public transport and the service is also of the highest caliber. Prices are more than fair and you can trust the quality wth hesitation. I recommend this place to watch aficionados and low budget watch lovers with equal gusto. Anyone who has a negative review of this place has some ulterior motives at play. read more

Fine Swiss Watch Repair - Watch Repair Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I came across this place because of Yelp and I'm very excited to report my experience was FANTASTIC!! I called Kent about my problem and he told me to come on in. I showed up, he fixed my problem and sent me on my way! Kent took the time to explain to me as to what was going on and showed me the inside of my watch. It was really cool to see all of the moving parts. Kent is a Certified Rolex Watchmaker and Certified Master Watchmaker. He can fix your Rolex so you do not have to be without it for 6-8 weeks. read more

Kent has provided me with SUPERB service on my pre-owned Cartier watch. He adjusted the bracelet for me free - and even let me try a few different sizing options to see what worked best. I was concerned that the links on the bracelet might not be 100% authentic, as the Cartier store on Michigan Avenue had made me question things. He examined the watch and confirmed it was the real deal. Several weeks later I scuffed a prominent section of the watch and came in to see if he could help. He once again saved the day - AND did so free of charge! I'll be here again for battery changes, adjustments, and pretty much anything else that comes up with my new watch. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Fine Swiss Watch Repair! read more

I'd had my AP chronograph for about 15 years before I brought it to Kent. The watch was in a rough shape: multiple scratches, never had been cleaned, broken joints and clasp. I received my watch back today and it looks brand new ! What a great feeling! It did take some time - so please consider that and be patient , however , the value is unbeatable ! Strongly recommend! read more

Fine Swiss Watch Repair - Watch Repair Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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When I use to work in Chicago's Loop, I would bring Kent my Omega Seamaster Professional and could always rely on his expert counsel, and service. Kent is extremely knowledgeable, skilled, and well-trained. I may be accepting another position in the West Loop in 2018. If so, I will definitely be bringing my Fine Swiss time pieces back to Kent! read more

I should have taken the time to read the one star reviews on Google. It's the same story -- I took a nice, working Rolex in to have the crystal replaced -- a 1-2 day job, then a 2 week job, then he stopped returning my calls -- 4 weeks later it wasn't done and now the Rolex wasn't working as well. The owner is a very gentle personality, but was unapologetic about the massive delay, failure to return my calls, or returning to me a non-functioning watch. I hate to leave bad reviews, it truly kills me -- but I would also hate for you to be in my position. read more

I just came back from a visit to see Kent about a Rolex that I inherited from my father. The metal band had a few bent links, and it needed to be reattached to the watch. Kent's shop is on the 7th floor of a very old building, and you must knock on his suite door to get buzzed in. It's a tiny little shop, but Kent obviously knows his stuff - he is the only certified master watchmaker in the city. He fixed the bent links on the metal band and reattached it to the watch, all for the princely sum of... $0. That's right, no charge! Great guy. He does do full overhauls on Rolex watches and is a certified Rolex tech. I will *definitely* be taking my watch to him when it's due for overhaul. This is a stand-up guy and establishment. You don't find places like this very often. read more

Located on the 7th floor of an old Jeweler's Row building, in suite 736. If you care about your time piece, this is the repair shop for you. Kent is a professional, and he clearly knows what he is doing. Frankly, I'm surprised to be the first Yelper to check him out. This is a five-star shop all the way. Small note: Cash or Check only (no plastic accepted). I think that's why the prices are so reasonable. read more

Kent was thoughtful, careful, and informative about my watch repair. I felt completely comfortable entrusting him to overhaul my Rolex (an emotionally priceless family heirloom). I will, without hesitation, continue to visit Kent with the other invaluable watches I've inherited. read more

20 years ago my wife gave me a then-20 year old Rolex. I've loved it since, but it took several service attempts with other jewelers until I found Kent. Mr. Mikolite has serviced my watch for the past two years, and does his work like a fine Swiss Watch repair person (!) He really knows his stuff, is certified by a number of professional organizations, and most importantly, he keeps my watch running, from replacing gaskets to spring repair to a complete rebuild - Kent does it all with quality and professionalism. His work is not limited to Rolex, either - just ask him about the Acutron he has! read more

Stopped in to have a watch band looked at that wasn't latching. I thought a piece had been broken. After he looked at it for a couple of minutes he handed it back all fixed. No charge! This after stopping by the place up the street and was told by the man 'broken, need new piece for $55' Guess whose getting my business in the future! read more

After reading all of the excellent recommendations on Yelp, I took in my watch to Kent for a minor adjustment. He completed the work while a waited (a big plus for me), checked to make sure things were correct, made a second adjustment based on my feedback, and sent me on my way. He provides excellent, rapid service at a very good price. In my opinion, that's an unbeatable value proposition. I highly recommend FSWR. read more

I had a really good experience. He knew right away what was wrong with the watch. He was quick and reasonably priced. I'm glad I found this place. I recommend him. read more

I have always been fine with his service and I hope Kent is fine but lately I have called multiple times to see if my Master Geographic Compressor is ready and no one answers the phone. I also went to the shop twice and it was closed. I hope all is good with him and I receive my call back soon. read more

Do you love your watch? If you love your watch, you want it repaired right and you take it to Kent at Fine Swiss Watch Repair. He repaired my beloved Gucci watch, high in sentimental value to me, in minutes, after I had taken it to a different watch repair place that nearly ruined it. He was able to fix mine right (and fast!), but if you need more extensive repairs, it might take longer - be patient because the wrong place can literally ruin your watch. Stop in on the 4th floor of the building; no appointments necessary. read more

I'm a returning customer here. Fast and friendly service. Takes very good care and is really considerate. Thanks Again!

I work in New York a few blocks from Jewelers Row. I have many Swiss watches including marques like Breitling, IWC, Rolex, Tag Heuer and Zenith. I have taken these watches multiple times to well reviewed repair shops in New York and have never been satisfied. I found Kent through a review years ago. Since then I now wait until I travel to Chicago to visit Kent for all my watch repairs and servicing. Last month I flew to Geneva, Switzerland and left a broken watch at home. 2 months later I am writing this review after leaving Kent's new location in Chicago. That should say it all. read more

I went in because I needed a new watch band installed -- I had the watch and the band, but I couldn't do it myself. The courteous owner did it in about 45 seconds and charged me the exorbitant rate of $0. He wouldn't take any money! I'll definitely be back. read more

Great job. Took care of my parents Rado's and fixed one for no charge. Kent loves what he does and it shows. I'll be bringing an IWC for him to take a look at next week. read more

Went in for a screw replacement on a metal watch band. Kent was courteous and helpful, and turned the repair around in 10 minutes.

Even though I do not sport the fanciest of watches, Kent was amazingly helpful and fixed two broken pins in my metal watch band. He was quick and a nice guy too. I think I've found a go-to guy for all things watch related. read more

The service reminds me of my childhood and the local jeweler who knew exactly what you needed, and could fix everything with a smile, from grandfather's pocket watch to the clasp on Mary's first communion gold cross. I thought that this type service had died, it hasn't it's just relocated to the loop read more

Stopped by to get a TAG Heuer's battery replaced, in and out in 10 minutes. Kent was great, highly recommended.

I think my most recent transaction with Kent was my third. I mailed my watch in, like I've done previously, along with payment and a self-addressed return envelope. This time, the battery needed to be replaced. In addition to replacing the battery, it appears Kent cleaned it (like usual, but always appreciated), but also tightened the clasps on the band which had become quite loose, and I'm pretty sure he polished the glass face, which wore signs of daily (ab)use. All without me even asking. Where else do you get service like this? Kent does awesome work. You could not ask for a better repair shop. read more

This guy is as terrific as all the other reviews say. Rather than send a Movado back to the factory for what seemed a fixable repair to the band, I took the watch to Kent who repaired it in minutes for VERY small expense. In addition to good work he is personable, accomodating and worth the trip to his shop. Thank you Kent! Your review helps others learn about great local businesses. Please don't review this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're connected in any way to the owner or employees. read more

Terrible. I brought a high end chronograph to this business based in part on the Yelp reviews that I saw. I wanted it overhauled so that I could put it up for sale confident that I was offering a good item. I was quoted $800 and eight weeks. Some time after 8 weeks had gone by, I called to check the status of this work. That's when I learned Kent doesn't answer the phone and his outgoing message is in effect "your item will be ready when it's ready". Nonetheless, I left a message saying it has been more than 8 weeks, so when will it be ready, There was no response. OK, he doesn't want his work interrupted by phone calls. I sent a note with a stamped, self addressed envelope. Still no response. So I waited, after all he has to finish it one of these days. After about four months, I went back and asked for the watch, finished or not. He brought it out of the safe untouched with the comment that he had "gotten busy". I went across Madison street to Chris Watch Repair where I was quoted $600 and two weeks. About 2 1/2 weeks later I was notified to come pick up my watch. I'm glad Kent has such a thriving business, but if he got busy after quoting me 8 weeks, why keep putting me at the back of the line? Actually, I think he avoided this work because it was a complicated watch and he wasn't confident about working on it. If you need a battery change or links taken out of a bracelet, Kent might be your man. For heavy duty watch repair go elsewhere. read more

I am going to echo all the other 5 star reviews. Kent is the best watchmaker in Chicago. He knows watches of all types particulary Rolex. He is honest, dependable, and reasonable. I would recommend him to anybody. I took a very unusual and collectable Enicar Sherpa Jet to Kent for a full service. The price was reasonable and the watch keeps perfect time. If you have a fine Swiss watch that needs servicing go to Kent and rest assured it will be done correctly and reasonably. He is busy so it may take more time than you'd like but he is worth the wait. read more

Kent is the best! I was referred to Kent by a colleague and watch aficionado. I brought him my grandfathers 1977 Omega day/date quartz. It had never worked correctly and stopped completely a number of years ago. Kent cleaned and polished the watch and it keeps better time now than anything else in my collection. More recently, I brought Kent an Omega Speedmaster I had purchased online. He opened the case and confirmed its authenticity and even adjusted the band for free. I plan on taking all of watches to Kent for service in the future. Great guy, and I highly recommend him. Mike read more

I had an issue with a loose crown (my fault) on my TAG Heuer Aquaracer and brought it in for Kent to fix. He was speedy, inexpensive, and definitely earns the title of Best Watchmaker in Chicago. read more

I dropped my Maurice LaCroix off to Kent in August of 2015 for a tune up, as it was starting to run slowly. Kent said it would be 3 months. It's now been about 9 months and I don't have my watch back and have received no updates. I dropped in 3 weeks ago to see what in the world was going on and Kent said it would be another week (I believe I said 'so like a week or two'). No call, no watch. Obviously, no one answers the phone there and Kent makes sure to let you know he will call you when your watch is ready. I wonder when that will be? read more

I recently took my watch, ladies Omega, here on the recommendations of previous reviews. I was a little intimidated that I might be going to "a surgeon for a hang-nail". The watch had just seized up and I was afraid that I was going to need an expensive overhaul for my time piece. I bought the watch in 1995, wear it almost every day and have only changed the battery. En brief. He spent about :20 with my watch. It did need a little cleaning and a battery. Because of the previous reviews I knew to bring cash. I am very satisfied with the price I was charged. Kent is a Master and you would be very fortunate to have him work on your watch!! read more