Terms and conditions

1. Scope

These terms apply to the servicing, repair and restoration of watches and clocks entrusted to L’Établi du Temps, Nephtali Birchler (“the watchmaker”). Trade clients receive specific terms on request.

2. Handing over the watch

Each watch receives a written repair slip describing the piece and its visible condition. By handing over a watch, the client confirms being its owner or being authorised to have it repaired.

3. Estimate

The estimate is free and in writing. It lists the diagnosis, labour, parts and lead time, and is valid for 30 days. Prices on the website are starting prices and the online estimate an indicative range: only the accepted estimate is binding. No work starts without the client’s consent. If opening the watch reveals a further fault, the watchmaker stops and asks for new consent.

4. Estimate declined

If the client declines the estimate, the watch is returned wound, with no diagnosis fee. Only any postage remains payable.

5. Parts

The client chooses whether to keep original parts as far as possible or to replace faulty parts, and whether the watchmaker may order the parts needed or must ask first. Replaced parts are returned on request.

6. Lead times

Classic: 21 days. Express: 10 days, for CHF 150 more, subject to monthly availability. Lead times run from acceptance of the estimate and, if parts are ordered, from their arrival. The supplier’s lead time is announced before ordering. Supplier delays or force majeure give no right to compensation.

7. Warranty

Work is guaranteed for 12 months, labour and fitted parts included. A 24-month warranty can be chosen with the estimate, for CHF 100 more per watch. The warranty does not cover knocks, drops, water or moisture beyond the tested water resistance, magnetism, normal wear (strap, crystal, battery) or work done by a third party. For quartz watches, only battery replacement is offered.

8. Delivery and shipping

The watch can be handed over at the Horlogerie du Lac shop in Morges, at your home by appointment, or by registered post with declared value. Shipping to the watchmaker is at the sender’s risk. The return follows the method chosen on the estimate, at the cost stated.

9. Payment

The amount of the accepted estimate is payable when the watch is returned or as invoiced. Payment methods are stated on the estimate. The watchmaker may ask for a deposit for a large parts order.

10. Uncollected watches

The client is told when the watch is ready. If it is not collected within six months, the watchmaker sends a written reminder and may then charge storage fees announced in advance. The watchmaker holds a right of retention over the watch until payment (art. 895 Swiss Civil Code).

11. Liability

The watchmaker handles every watch with care. Liability is limited, within the law, to damage caused intentionally or by gross negligence. For a very valuable piece, the client may declare its value at drop-off.

12. Personal data

See the privacy policy.

13. Governing law and jurisdiction

Swiss law applies. Jurisdiction lies at the watchmaker’s domicile, subject to mandatory statutory jurisdictions, in particular for consumers.

The French version prevails.