patrick_y
[PuristSPro Moderator]
33543
Hello and welcome to WatchProSite!
You've brought up an excellent question. Reliability is generally hard to predict; especially if you're considering a used watch. In general, smaller brands are not great when it comes to reliability. Even large brands like AP, VC, Breguet, which make thousands of watches a year, are not always very reliable. Thin watches are also more difficult to regulate (an accuracy issue) and can be tricky to assemble (a reliability issue). I've heard mixed stories about Laurent Ferrier.
Laurent Ferrier (the watch brand) is mostly owned by Francois Servanin - I don't know, but I think Richemont at one point had shares in the enterprise as well. While it is possible the brand could go under, I can't state I know for certain how easy these watches would be to service. They don't look terribly difficult, but I am not a watchmaker, so this is not an expert opinion. It would be more difficult if there were ultra-thin parts (doesn't apply), strange bridges, unusual 3D parts (very difficult to machine for a servicer, would need to buy the part from the factory), proprietary lubricants (not likely on this piece), etc. Overall, there's nothing immediately obvious that suggests this watch would be terribly difficult to service.
If I recall correctly, the servicer for Laurent Ferrier is Alkis Kotsopoulos in New York City. Alkis is the same servicer for Lange North America. Alkis might be more capable to answer this question.
It's good you're doing your due diligence on an important watch purchase!
What are the top reasons that made you interested in LF? The finishing? The design? Movement architecture?
Again, welcome to the forum!
Questions for Laurent Ferrier Owners
I was wondering what LF owners experience have been with their watches with regards to durability, accuracy and reliability. I’m finally in the market for getting my first “big boy” watch and I have been enamored with LF for quite some time. In particular...
I have not had my LF for that long but it’s ran perfect thus far.
I know others may not have such a great experience. But honestly I have had issues with two other indies so it seems the indies are prone to possibly more issues than the main houses. That being said it’s a gorgeous watch and well finished. I wouldn’t wor...
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Yeah my general take is that indies will likely be more receptive to making things right so I think I’m ok with that. Additionally the dealer I’m working with seems pretty reasonable. Thanks for confirming that a qualified watch maker should be able to se...
I have several LF pieces and all of them keep great time.
Others haven't had the same experience. LF is better equipped than most independents to survive in the long term thanks to the string design language and the LMVH connection. In theory an independent watchmaker can service some of their watches. In practi...
LVMH?
Oh interesting! Is the connection a direct investment in the company or that they source movement parts from Fabrique du Temps?
Sorry I wasn't clear - meant sourcing parts from FdT.
I just think that if the company ends up being in financial trouble it is highly likely that it will be added to the LMVH stable.
Hello and welcome to WatchProSite!
You've brought up an excellent question. Reliability is generally hard to predict; especially if you're considering a used watch. In general, smaller brands are not great when it comes to reliability. Even large brands like AP, VC, Breguet, which make tho...
Thanks for the reply!
Man, NYC is such a treasure. It always wows me that NYC has such talent every where. My interest in Laurent is that they are an independent manufacturer that takes pride in form and function. I love the clean dial and the movement finishing is absolutely ...
I concur, the 5226G and the Laurent Ferrier are not comparable.
Your last sentence says "I also don't love PM watches" and I don't know what you mean by "PM watches" could you clarify? I also concur, the Laurent Ferrier pieces do have a beautiful and handsome look. One that is both casual and elegant. While most peopl...
Oh! Precious metals! Of course!
I'm not especially drawn to precious metal watches neither. Perfectly okay with steel or lesser metals. That being said, I do have a lot of gold watches since many brands prefer to work in that medium. Enjoy the hunt!
Micro Rotor it is
I ended up stretching for the Laurent Micro Rotor. The natural escapement is super cool and I love the aesthetics.
Congrats! Please share photos of the watch once you receive it!
Geniuses think alike! I'm a big fan of micro rotors myself!
I’m probably not the one to ask because my experience with the brand was extremely disappointing. I’m sure you can research the threads
I’m sure if you research the threads you can read my issues at that time. I am no longer an owner and quite honestly at this point. I’m staying clear of any independents due to concerns about their viability and customer service.
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I saw your post which definitely caused some of the concerns that I had. That being said I’ve also had some service issues with Omega (granted my crown didn’t fall apart). I’m a bit more flexible assuming the brand or AD tried to make things right. Thanks...
You are exactly the one to ask.
Direct experience. Positive or not. Is a valuable data point.
My personal experience with my Classic micro rotor is good.
I bought the watch second hand and it has never been serviced, but works and keeps time very fine. Best, Emmanuel PS: and (late) warm welcome on WatchProSite! ...