The German Watchmaker knows his stuff, is very honest and offers really prompt service: he responded to my yelp message within a few hours and repaired my watch over the afternoon for less than he had quoted me because it turns out the problem was minor. The dial of my watch had become foggy: it is an inexpensive skagen, but 20 years old and belonged to my now deceased mother so very valuable sentimentally. Now it is good as new and I am very relieved. What more can you ask? The shop is accessible, and it's also really neat. Its more of a workshop actually. You can tell that watches are this man's passion and craft. It is really refreshing to find a legitimate, unpretentious, artisan in this city. I will be only coming to this shop from now on. What a gem. read more

Norbert is a very knowledgeable watchmaker and a gentleman. As a hobbyist watchmaker myself, he's my go-to guy when I.... let's say screw things up. It's always a pleasure doing business with him. read more

Took a watch to him which had a higher end movement in it. Was running a bit slow each day, more than what's acceptable for an automatic. I was a bit nervous handing over the watch, but he adjusted it for me on the spot. I watched him work and saw that he indeed knew exactly what he was doing, taking care to open the watch properly and keep everything clean and tidy while he worked. After adjusting he told me to come back for another adjustment if there were any issues. This was a few months ago and the watch continues to run well. I wouldn't hesitate to bring him your mid tier or even higher end watches for work. read more

Have not done any business with Norbert yet. He did give me the advice to where I can get help. A very honest and helpful person!

I can't say enough fantastic things about Norbert. Yesterday I went to Links of London, where my travel clock came from, and was told it would need to be sent to Toronto, where they would estimate the cost of repair. The salesperson said the estimate would probably come in at around $300-$500 and it would take two months. I went to The German Watchmaker and he changed the battery and put the back of the case back on while I waited for a grand total of $15. He couldn't immediately get the alarm working again, but told me where I could buy a replacement part. To top it off: when I thought I might not have enough cash on me to pay for the repair, he told me to drop it by or mail it in. So amazing that people like this still exist in Vancouver! read more

I needed to change the batteries of my sons watch! The owner was knowledgeable, fair and friendly! He changed the batteries and cleaned and oiled the watch as well, while I waited! I will definitely recommend him! read more

So I stopped in thinking the reviews might be wildly bogus... The Yelp reviews are mildly bogus. There is nothing special going on here except this guy having friends and family willing to write great Yelp reviews for him. I ended up not leaving my watch for repairs here with plans to send it to a factory authorized repair station. I live so close and wanted the ease of using someone nearby but after reading the reviews and stopping in... The reviews are just bogus. I would not trust this shop with a watch of grand value. read more

Needed some links taken out of my newly purchased Rolex, local Rolex was going charge me $50. I had it done here for $10 and was a great experience. He gained a customer for life. read more

I had a bracelet that was scratched badly. I took it to Norbert to have it fixed. Now it looks like new again. I'm very happy with the results. I will surely be back for servicing later on. read more

Norbert is the best in Vancouver hands down. I don't take my IWC or rolex watches any where else.

I have a Bvlgari watch that I received as a high school graduation gift. I never wore it, and kept it tucked away for years. 13 years later, I realize the mistake I've made with such a high end watch (leaving the batteries in, not having it regularly maintained, etc.). I originally took it to a high end jeweller who carries the brand, and paid 50.00 for the watch to be shipped off to be looked at. I was then told a few days later that it would take 400.00 - 600.00 to fix (I can't remember the actual value). I couldn't see myself spending that much, so I took it to the German Watchmaker instead. When the owner hears my situation, he offers to take a look right away. He then tells me that the batteries have not leaked and just needs replacing. He also mentioned it needs to be "oiled up" (I didn't ask what this meant). He says it'll come to 40.00 before taxes. I agree to pay the amount, and he fixes it right away. I maybe waited 10 minutes total. I left super happy that I did not have to pay hundreds of dollars to get it working again. I highly recommend him - I feel like he's honest, and he was also so considerate of those that came in after I did, by acknowledging them and telling them he'll just be a moment. I feel like he really cares about his customers and his craft. read more

Norbert's shop was recommended to me by a few friends in the know. In short, I found my mom's 1979 Tudor Princess Oysterdate with cracked crystal and it's never been serviced. It still ran (despite a stiff crown), but thought it was worth getting some TLC for a 38 year old piece. I emailed Norbert for a quote and he asked me to bring the watch in for a look. Maybe I showed up on the wrong day, but he was slammed with work and customers. To be honest, I was a bit intimidated by what other people were bringing in: some expensive pieces where factory servicing costs more than my mom's watch. I honestly wasn't sure if this was the right place for a ladies watch with not a whole lot other than sentimental value. But, as busy as Norbert was, he squeezed me in after wrapping up things with Whale Customer A and Whale Customer B was waiting with a case of watches for him to look at. He listened to what I wanted and made some great suggestions -- in short, we agreed to overhaul the movement, polish the watch and fix and tighten the bracelet and endlinks. The cracked crystal was a problem - given it's a ladies watch, he didn't have the part and it would be difficult/expensive for Norbert to source. So, he suggested that I search online and gave me the OEM part number for crystal (along with tips on how to avoid fakes) and gave me an upfront and reasonable quote. Norbert was very helpful and responsive when I emailed him with more questions and I was able to find a relatively cheap eBay listing for new old-stock crystal... from Italy. Given that I was on short trip to Vancouver, Norbert was willing to hold off on working on my mom's watch while we waited for shipping and my brother will handle dropping off the crystal, payment and pickup. Haven't had the opportunity to check out Norbert's work in person yet. But the crystal made it to Vancouver (Norbert said it 'fit like a glove') and my brother picked it up and paid the quoted price. Smooth transaction and my mom is happy with her revitalized watch. read more

Brought in my father's vintage "Edox Hydromatic" from the 1960s/1970s that hasn't ever had a proper service. He gave me a fair quote and said it'd take 2-3 weeks. After a week and a half, he called and said it was done. The watch looked as good as new! He cleaned up the bracelet, replaced the spring bars, polished the crystal, and serviced the movement. Nothing but good things to say about Norbert and his service! I'll definitely bring my other watches to him if/when they need servicing. read more

AMAZING! Seriously, Norbert rocks. I was in town on a vacation and was having crown issues with my Rolex. I searched around and was happy to discover a watch repair store with such a strong reputation. When I walked in, Norbert stopped what he was doing, listened to my problem and then proceeded to work on my watch. He fixed the problem in a manner of minutes and when I tried to pay. He kindly insisted that it was on the house. This type of customer service is without a doubt above all else. I tend to visit the Vancouver area every once and a while.. from now on. I will be giving my watch needs to this business. Thank you so much and it was a pleasure. read more

I went in with a pocket watch that my dad has had for many years that broke. I wanted to fix it for his 60th birthday. He not only fixed it but told me all about it and the makers of it. Definitely a little gem in Yaletown with an owner that actually cares and knows exactly what he is talking about. Definitely recommend!! :) read more

The nicest business exchange I can remember in a long time! It was a simple battery replacement but he did it on the spot for me and took the time to clean it up and tell me a little bit about my watch which I had bought in Thailand years ago. Thank you so much for making my day! read more

I didn't know about this place until I read the reviews here. Honest price, quick, and the watch smith is a talented one. I'll be coming back if I have any time piece that require attention. read more

I RECOMMEND YOU GO TO GERMAN WATCHMAKER ON HOMER/DAVIE STREET if you want quality work and great customer service...Very reasonable rates. He fixed my watch today but I forgot he is a cash only establishment and I didn't have any cash. I said I would come back and get the cash for him...instead he let me take my watch after he fixed it (without paying) and said to come back when I can when I have the money. You don't see service or trust like that too often these days. So get your watch fixed by Norbert, the German Watchmaker in Yaletown...you won't be disappointed. As an aside...don't even bother going to John Hiew repairs on Granville...they have the worst service I have ever seen. read more

Make a mistake trusting the 5 star review. Beware. I have a vintage Rolex (serviced 2014). Usually +4 seconds/day, The last time I rotated the watch, it ran fast at 10s/day. Could it be magnetism? Brought it to Norbert. Nope, the watch ran faster after Norbert demagnetized it. So, he opened up the case to discover why. He tells me that he thinks the hairspring is too close to the bridge. So, he lowered it. Oops, it ran even faster. Norbert tells me to come back next week to adjust the watch. I take it home, and it runs 1.5 minutes fast per day. Holy Toledo. I tell Norbert that it is a FAIL. He refunds the fee he charged. Mumbled excuses. I tell him that it is my mistake to bring the watch to him. Its his mistake to adjust the hairspring. Lesson learned. Never entrust a precision watch to someone who is not factory trained. read more

My entire family brings their watches to Norbert, "The German Watchmaker" because he's honest, quick and does an amazing job. Most of the time he's able to fix me up while I wait but regardless, all of his work is done on site so there's no unnecessary delay. I would highly recommend using Norbert over any other watchmaker, especially any high end jewelry stores which always outsource and charge an arm and a leg. Just be sure to bring cash with you, as I don't think he takes debit/cc. read more

Outstanding service and servicing of our Rolex watches. Norbert is truly a watch master. Faster and less expensive than going through Rolex repair center, highly recommend. read more

Great guy, had three watches fixed....dropped them off and came back an hour later and they were ready Good location and others stopping seemed to be satisfied as well read more

While on a trip to Vancouver the battery in my watch died. I easily found a shop that was able to remove the back and replace the battery. Unfortunately, they couldn't get the back to re-seat on the watch. I ended up at "The German Watchmaker" where Norbert saved the day and properly replaced the back. Thanks Norbert! read more

Been going to this shop many times. So I thought is time to write a review. I always walk away with very good advices and services from this shop. Price is very reasonable as well. Will buy espresso for him from next door when I visit too, just to thank him. read more

First timer to Norbert: Took an old 1906 Waltham Pocket in that was no longer working. He opened it up, explained the mechanics, jewels and overall value of the watch. Gave me a quote to service it and advised that if I'm not using it - might not want to service it just yet. Wow, I like good honest advice like that. Also brought a pre-owned Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch that I purchased from a collector in New York. He checked it out, took the time to give me information about it, ran timing tests adjusted the bracelet for a better fit. Could have easily told me it needed servicing (it didn't he said) All in all he must have spent 30 minutes with me and did not charge me! He knows his watches, gives good (honest) advice and good old school customer service. Will definitely go back.. read more

Came here to buy a set of spring bar (spring bars are small pins to hold bracelet to the case), he gave it to me for free. Awesome ! not that it's expensive but he could have charge me 5 bucks and i don't care. Will come again to buy Nato strap, he has a decent strap collection. and possibly service my german watch (a sinn) in the future. read more

Took my omega to the omega boutique on Granville to only have a few small parts serviced. Right away without even looking at the watch they quoted me a $600 charge for a full service, and a 4-6 week turnaround after being shipped to Toronto. Norbert replaced only the key elements that needed replacing, polished the bracelet and casing, and did a full inspection and pressure all for 1/3rd of the cost in only a weeks time, he was also very thorough and explained in detail what was done and why. Very impressed with the way the watch looks and functions, his speedy service and great customer service. Would recommend to anyone who needs anything from a timex to a Rolex serviced! read more

The German Watchmaker - Watch Repair Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

I stopped in today to get batteries replaced in two watches, one for my wife and one of mine. Both are relatively inexpensive ($250 or so). Both were taken care of while I waited in less than 10 minutes for $25 plus tax. I don't know much about watch repair but he did some cleaning as well as set the time. I paid cash as cards are not accepted. I much preferred this experience over going to the Bay twice to drop off and pick up, paying twice as much and waiting a week. Highly recommended for routine items. read more

I had my Omega for 12 years and never got around to servicing it. After a couple of years of it always running slow, I took it to Norbert and he replaced a few key parts, services it and polished it. Now it looks and runs like new. All at a reasonable cost and timeframe. Thanks Norbert! Highly recommended. read more

I've been taking my watches new and old to Norbert for years. He is simply the best in Vancouver!

Great experience. Brought in my Oris (Swiss divers watch) as it was running 30 seconds fast per day. Service was immediate while I waited, nice to have such a friendly and experienced watchmaker. It's not running perfect. Great job, couldn't be happier, will definitely be back with any other of my mechanical watches that need service! read more

My Rolex watch holds extreme sentimental value to me. I visited Norbert at his shop only after researching the reviews on this site. All reviews I saw were extremely positive with a recurring description of his approach to customers and professionalism in his business. I am happy to report the reviews are 100% correct. Norbert politely asked me to wait while he finished with a customer, then when it was my turn, he took the time to listen to my concerns, ask questions, and then to proceed to investigate the repair cost and time. I received an informed quote and the option to have the work done in the same day. I was never pressured to have more work done than I asked for. The work was completed on time as promised, for the cost quoted. I am very impressed, and recommend Norbert to anyone who values good professional and knowledgeable work. read more

I came to see Norbert to change the flavor of my watch a little by adding a new strap (see inspiration here: http://forums.watchuseek.com/f99/straps-speedmaster-professional-6410.html). But the secondary reason why I came in was to find a watch repair person I can trust. When I wore lower end watches with quartz movements, I didn't really care who I took my watch in for maintenance (i.e. changing the lithium battery). The stakes were low, and you really can't screw something like that up. But when you start dabbling into haute horology (and if you haven't don't, it is a horrible, expensive hobby), you need to find someone with legitimate skills and knowledge of the intricacies of high end watches (and I don't think that someone is the guy at the mall kiosk selling Timex watches). Someone who cleans out and bring back to life vintage heirloom watches. Someone who himself has an extensive and impressive watch collection. Someone who happily dispenses sage advice to youngins developing an interest in classic watches. That man is Norbert. Very friendly, easy to talk to, and clearly very well trained. By the way, the name "German Watchmaker" is appropriate. Norbert is of German descent. More importantly, Germany itself has a proud watch making tradition, and boasts some of the top brands and most gorgeous watches out there today outside of Switzerland (A.Lange & Sohne, Glashutte Original, NOMOS) with a great reputation for reliability. Same with Norbert. Back to the story, I bought a NATO-strap and a blue leather Hirsch band for my Speedmaster Professional (both you normally only can find online and his prices are comparable to the online prices with the added benefit of being able to see what it makes your watch look like). He took $5 bucks off, and offered to switch my watchbands back and forth at no charge and often as I'd like (probably best I don't do it myself so as to risk scratching the bezel). Couldn't be happier. CASH ONLY. So visit your ATM before coming by. read more

Norbert was a great help. He didn't have the tools to work on my strange watch but pointed me to a place that specialises with the brand. He gave me a breakdown of what needed to be done and a rough idea of what it would cost. When I took my watch to the shop he recommended, I found out he was spot on. They listed the same things that needed work and the price was very close to what he had estimated. Thank you Norbert for your accurate and free advice. I will be back when I have a different watch to work on. read more

I went in this morning to have my Nixon Rotolog battery replaced. Norbert greeted myself with a smile and stopped what he was working on to take on my watch right away. Literally within 2 or 3 minutes, my watch was running as it was when I first purchased it. Great service and his speed and workmanship are incredible! Highly recommended to anyone needing any watch servicing. read more

I have visited Norbert on separate occasions and I must say I have only good things to say about The German Watchmaker. The first time I bought a rubber strap with adjustable deployment buckle at the store. Norbert took his time to readjust the strap and he cut the strap to the perfect size to fit my wrist. He even helped me to put it onto my wrist to ensure I would not drop the watch. First time it didn't fit well and he was very patient to adjust it until finally it fit me perfectly. It was a pleasant experience! This time, I bought in my watch for Norbert to remove the dusts inside the crystal. He was able to fix it very promptly. Norbert kept me updated throughout the repair process and he even went into details to let me know what can or cannot be removed. I am very glad that he was being honest with me throughout because it gives me a very clear expectation for what the watch will look like afterwards. The best part is that the watch came back to me in a much better condition. I can say it looks ten times better than before! He really did everything he can to make my watch look brand new again. The store is very clean and well-equipped, which is a pleasure to visit. Being a workshop means that Norbert will always take his time to talk to you personally and discuss any problems that you might have. Great experience to be able to interact with a great watchmaker. Thanks very much Norbert for your professionalism, passion and friendliness! I will for sure bring in my watches for repair when they are in need for an overhaul. read more

My Fathers 1965 Omega Chrono stop Drivers edition was badly in need of Norbert's help. hands loose and not turning , crystal chipped, I think corrosion from salt water, as my father sailed and it is not a waterproof watch. He told me exactly what he would do and took the time to explain what and why he would change and replace. It is looking great, still my fathers watch but running perfectly, he says if I look after it, it will last a life time.it is an heirloom and holds a lot of memories. I live in Calgary and there is nobody to compare here to Norbert. Thank you Norbert, amazing to watch a true craftsman work and very pleasant too. read more

The German watch maker is reliable and professional,but the best part I like about Mr Norbert is his Honesty. This watch maker is the best in Greater Vancouver, Lower Mainland and surrounding areas or I can safely say British Columbia. I have received impeccable service from this facility on more than six difficult situations and Norbert has reached a perfect solution in a timeless fashion. I can highly recommend this merchant for services. read more

I found Norbert/German Watch Maker through the very helpful and (subsequently happy to learn) accurate Yelp reviews about his work and especially his customer service. Norbert is terrific and represents all the good reasons why we should support the local shop owner. He expertly repaired my watch for exactly the amount of money he promised and within the exact time frame he promised. I had to wait several weeks in order to get a part Norbert required but he told me that up front and then called me promptly when the part arrived. Norbert then offered me an incentive to come back when the battery for the watch needed replacing. The fact that the German Watch Maker does not accept credit cards is all but irrelevant when you receive the quality of service the German Watch Maker provides. I wrote him a cheque; no big whoop. I would recommend the German Watch Maker to anyone as Norbert is well worth the trip to Yaletown if you do not live there. It is completely refreshing to receive customer service from such a friendly, considerate, capable and honest business person. DO'B read more

A wonderful place to get watches serviced. The owner is such a knowledgeable person and knows what he is doing. Will go to him whenever needed and he will get lots of my referrals. read more