HI Kostyantyn,

Its now 5 months later and my watch is in Switzerland with Cartier (they dont have the expertise in Australia to service it!) but more than that they insist on replacing the face and hands which I couldn't detect there was a problem with it but apparently its flaking and will get worse, they also require that they keep the replaced parts. All at a total cost of aprox $1800 AUD. Like you the communication has been very slow and disappointing. I am trying to make the decision to repair and service or request that they return the watch. They wont do just a service, it has to be all or nothing. My concern is that they will devalue the watch by replacing the face and hands but I am really left with no choice if I want to use and wear it. Any thoughts? Regards.

Apologies for not replying sooner. Thanks Kostyantyn for your advices, I weighed up all the pro's and con's and in the end decided to take it into Cartier (Sydney flagship) a few days ago. Ultimately this was based on the fact that I am the original purchaser of the watch from 1980 and should I decide to sell it later on I can attribute the ownership and the maintenance by Cartier. I took into account everything you said and I am monitoring the Cartier procedure - service was good so far but I am awaiting a report as to what might need to be done and how much. Will keep you posted.

Hi Kostyantyn, I just inherited the 1976 NYC Stepped Tank Cartier (as new) with original strap and was enquiring with Cartier in Sydney for a service but they are uncertain as to the likely cost. The watch runs about 1-2 minutes fast over 24 hours. Can you give me any feedback you received and cost on your service if possible? I'm thinking to leave it until I feel it really needs it. Awesome watch love the design, quite unique!