when it comes to watchmaking and let alone service, they are only considerd serious contenders because they bought out Genta and Roth which i think is a truly smart move but im sure they will become more formidable in the future, as for your experience with the boutique sounds like they are short staffed and have overlooked your service which can happen, i wouldnt complain too much as i have experienced waiting for a watch to be repaired replaced for more than 2 and half years YES 2 1/2 YEARS from a BIG or i thought they were Big watch brand and now know they are just jokers amongst the big boys , a great watch company is one who has 5 star back up service, now i only buy watches from brands who are known to have the best service or i will stay away. This message has been edited by gazoz on 2010-09-07 17:24:46