FAQ

Do our watches have a warranty?

Yes, our warranty covers one year after the date of purchase (does not include customer-caused flood or abuse). We offer service options after warranty. We keep service costs as low as possible, and we'll be here to assist you if needed!

Does Resco offer a return policy?

Yes. $50 restock fee will be applied to every watch return, and shipping fees are never refunded. Customers must return the watch within five days of receiving the timepiece; there must be no signs of wear, and all pieces, parts, and the case must be returned. No returns outside of 5 days (of customer signing for watch) will be accepted. Ship returns to our post box (shipping address only, not physical address):

Resco Instruments
555 N EL CAMINO REAL
Suite A, PMB #281
San Clemente, CA 92672

All carriers accepted. We recommend shipping via UPS versus USPS, though the choice is yours!

Within the shipment, please identify yourself and note the refund request. Do not ship refund pieces in an envelope (not even a padded envelope); rather, ship in a box! And tape your box closed.... We will not refund something we do not receive!

Where do I send Upgrades, Service and Returns (Resco pieces only)?

You can view pricing for common service items in the Service section of our site (top/center of homepage). We will always invoice return shipping fees.

Please ship upgrades, service, and return requests to our Watchmaker's post mailbox:

Resco Instruments
555 N EL CAMINO REAL
Suite A, PMB #281
San Clemente, CA 92672

The above address is a shipping address (not a physical Resco shop address). Please include a service request form (link in the service tab, top center of our homepage). Please note who you are, the service you are requesting, contact information, and a return address. We recommend shipping with insurance and tracking. We recommend shipping via UPS rather than USPS, though the choice is yours!

Do not ship service pieces in an envelope (not even a padded envelope); rather, ship in a box! And tape your box closed... We cannot service what we don't receive!

Repairs take 1-2 weeks, depending on the current building queue when we receive the repair. Service fee (s) and UPS return shipping will be invoiced to the customer. PO Box addresses ship via USPS. We will email tracking or send it via text.

Items left in Resco Service Center (customer not responding to Resco) for more than 90 days become the property of Resco!

Does Resco ship knives to all countries?

No. We will not ship if there is any question about knives being illegal in your country. Resco will cancel order if we are uncomfortable with your shipping location.

I've emailed/called Resco and have not heard back; what should I do?
We get so many emails/calls each day, and we receive a ridiculous amount of spam... If you have emailed and haven't heard back, email us again or give us a call. We do check our email daily, and sometimes your emails end up in our spam folder. Just reach out; we're always happy to assist. HQ direct: 619-203-4581; Watchmaker's work cell: 619-319-5864.

Interesting Resco Facts...

We have never increased the prices of our watches; our watch pricing is the same as it was back in 2009, when we opened our doors. Rather than raising prices, we keep our site discount of -15% live; we ride the ups and downs with you. We always strive to be better (for our customers and ourselves). We have never accepted a bailout, and we will always have your best interest in mind.

Does a portion of each sale go to Navy Seals?

No, though we donate 10+/- watches per year to functions that directly support Military, LEO members, and their families.

Does Resco sell customer information?

No.

Can a customer visit the Resco Shop?

No. After having a storefront in CA for 12+ years, our CA Shop has closed, and we no longer have a physical store. However, we attend several trade shows each year.

Is a Quartz movement more durable and accurate than an Automatic movement?

Yes, without a doubt! Most of our models can be built in either Automatic or Quartz; contact us if you see a watch on our website that you prefer in Quartz, and we can likely convert it. Standard battery life is 3 years.

We provide lifetime battery changes for Resco Quartz watches; the customer is invoiced for return shipping; all Resco service includes a pressure and vacuum test certificate.

What is the difference between a Quartz movement and an Automatic movement?

Quartz:

A battery movement; brings accuracy and durability. It has a 3-year battery, and we offer lifetime battery changes (the customer is invoiced for return shipping). A Quartz movement offers more wear and tear and accurate timing. Only negative to Quartz (in our opinion): if hit hard enough (as in dropped on the ground), the battery could be knocked out of the battery holder, or the hands knocked off the stem. We can assist if you find yourself in that situation - quick turnaround in our service center. The seconds hand will tick rather than sweep; it may not always line up with the printed indexes or minute track on the dial.

Accuracy of a Quartz build is within 1/10 of a second, spot on!

Automatic:

An automatic movement; self-winding mechanism. No battery; this movement requires winding and calibration to keep time. Automatic movements are more valuable and more collectible. Only negative to Auto (in our opinion): parts are more expensive to replace. We can assist if you find yourself needing Resco Auto service - quick turnaround in our service center. Seconds hand will sweep versus tick.

Accuracy of an Auto: Realistically, a fully wound auto has a run time of 30-36 hours and an accuracy of +/- 7 seconds per day.

Sellita Specs (Elaborate): SW200 is a beautiful automatic movement! Offers: hours, minutes, and sweep seconds. Date with quick setting function. Self-winding mechanism with ball bearing and a 41-hour power reserve.

Why did Resco switch their Auto builds from Eta to Sellita in 2022?

All we ever do is try to make things better for the Customer. We think Sellita is a better movement; we see this in the timing, hand alignment, date wheel alignment, and wear. We have the equipment to back this up. Overall, on our workbench and on our wrists, the Sellita is better than ETA.

If you prefer any of our Auto builds in the Standard ETA 2824 movement, please contact us and pay the Eta movement fee. We prefer Sellita, though we understand that some prefer Eta. The movement fee cannot be discounted.

The SW and ETA movements are interchangeable; we sometimes fulfill an order with ETA versus SW if we have the build ready to go in ETA. The price difference (increase) on the Eta is solely due to the difficulty of securing the movement.

Can Resco pieces be built with the crown on the left?

Yes - we can build our Auto Gen1, Gen2, UDT, Bullfrog, and Sea Pearl as a lefty. Email or call us with your build request, and we'll send you a build picture.

Where does Resco source their parts?

Loose lips sink ships! We do not disclose where we source parts; those are trade secrets. We have worked hard over the years to find quality vendors.

After purchase, can a customer convert an Auto to Quartz (and vice versa)?

We can easily convert Automatic to Quartz.

Converting Quartz to Automatic depends on the watch collection (and the movement required). We cannot yet convert the Chronograph to Automatic.

Either way (to Quartz or to Auto), you would also need to purchase hands, as each movement uses different hands.

Can Resco convert their Quartz GMT to Auto?

Yes, as long as we have the parts in stock. We do not promise the availability of this conversion. Please contact us if you are interested. We offer a conversion kit for customers who currently have a Resco Quartz GMT and want to switch to Auto. For conversion pricing, check the Service Tab.

Our Automatic GMT is the SW330-2, with a 56-hour power reserve.

What is DLC and PVD Coating?

We utilize both (primarily DLC); they are two types of durable black coating. While very similar, each has a different composition.

Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) is a vapor deposition process that uses blasted carbon to create a durable black coating found on the majority of our watch cases. We prefer DLC.

Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) is a process that produces a durable baked-on black coating found on our Manus watch cases.

Will Resco change the watch dial or hands to a different color after I purchase a watch?

Yes. It depends on available in-stock inventory; contact customer service to discuss. A service fee will be applied.

Does Resco offer engraving?
Yes. This service requires up to an additional week+/- before we can ship your completed order (dependent on our availability). Engraving fees cannot be refunded. Engraved pieces cannot be returned. Our case backs are screw-down; engraving will not line up with lug bars.

Can I order extra parts for my watch?

Yes, you can purchase parts in the Straps and Parts section of our website. Make sure you know if your watch wears a 20mm or 22mm strap, as we sell both.

What to do if you break a lug bar?

You can purchase lug bars on our website. Don't over-tighten lug bar/s or you will snap the head off the lug bar screw. We will always have lug bars for all collections.

What should a guy do if he is struggling to remove a lug bar?

First, take a deep breath. Maybe walk away for a minute and come back after you take your dog on a walk.

Here are some basic watch tools that we keep at our workstations: Resco multitool (wonderful tool for all levels of watch collectors; use on Resco as well as other watches), spring bar tool, standard 2mm hex wrench set (each watch comes with a set and we sell them), toothpicks, mini screwdrivers (we sell a variety of sizes), and watchmaking cleaning putty/Rodico (no we do not sell this). If you don't want to purchase putty, use some well-chewed gum.

Remember to replace your lug bars (they're inexpensive and crucial; buy new ones from time to time!).

Do not use a hammer on a watch... ever!

Work at a table, over a towel, in a well-lit area.

If you are still struggling... Feel free to call us, and we'll walk you through the process.

Does Resco offer a Payment Plan?

Yes. Customers can pay as much or as little as they would like each month; minimum $100. We send the monthly invoice from checkout. No interest is collected. The watch will ship when paid in full (WA residents must pay state tax only). We will keep a 4% processing fee if a refund is requested.

Resco will cancel a payment plan (return paid funds minus 4%) if a payment is not made toward a payment plan within 3 months.

Customers can adjust the monthly payment amount and/or request more frequent invoices. Just communicate - we are easy to work with.

Does Resco offer a military and FD/LE discount?

We currently offer a discount on our website (-15%) and do not stack discounts.

Are you looking for a majorly discounted piece?

We have bump/ding/floor model cases from time to time that discount up to -35%. Let us know which piece you are looking for (model and dial), email rescoinstruments@gmail.com, and we'll let you know if we can help! Mar/ding pieces are sold as-is. Hex wrenches and a warranty card are included, but a Resco watch box is not included with mar/ding/discount pieces (customers can purchase a watch box separately). It can take us about a week to respond to mar/ding requests, as we respond based on our daily workload.

Does customer pay state tax?

WA residents pay tax, as we are located in WA.

Where do I enter the discount promo code?

In the final stage of checkout. Though there are no current discount codes, as we currently have a discount applied at checkout.

Does Resco offer gift cards?

Yes, you can purchase gift cards on our website or by phone; gift cards never expire and cannot be refunded for cash.

What shipping method does Resco use?

We ship new watch purchases via Expedited 2 Day UPS; customers can also choose Next Day UPS or FedEx for an additional charge. Contact us to arrange Next Day shipping. Next Day shipping fees are nonrefundable, regardless of whether the carrier delivers.

Service Center Shipments: Customers can choose USPS Priority or UPS 3 Day (shipping fee is invoiced to the customer).

Knives, straps, parts, apparel, APO and PO Box ship via USPS.

Does Resco ship watches every day of the week?

Our shipping days are Monday and Wednesday; though we most often ship daily. We ship new watch purchases via UPS 2 Day with signature required. If you will not be home to sign, please coordinate accordingly. Your local UPS Store will often accept packages and hold them for customer pickup (you'll need to coordinate with them and confirm they will receive your package).

Does Resco Ship Internationally?

We sure try, depending on the location. We reserve the right to refund and not ship an international purchase if we feel uncomfortable with the order details.

Shall I keep my watches on a watch winder?
We do not recommend a winder, as a winder puts continued wear on your movement. We suggest you let your watch run down when not being worn; then give it a wind (25 rounds), set the date and time, and wear it again.

Where can I find my serial number?

You can find the serial number on the back of your watch case.

Does Resco offer tritium rather than SuperLuminova?

We prefer SuperLuminova; we may eventually have a tritium option.

Is the Gen2 Patriot case one piece or two pieces?

Over the years we have gone back and forth between one-piece and two-piece Gen2 cases; neither is better than the other. They are just different. We have never had problems with either.

Why does Resco change case designs... the answer is to add variety.

What is the thickness of the Sapphire crystal on Resco watches?

3mm.

Are Resco crowns screw-down?

Yes.

Can I dive with a Resco?

Yes; 100–500-meter rating depending on the piece.

What is the temperature rating for movements used?

Per the manufacturer's specification for the oil used in our movements, a safe temperature rating is -29C to +70C.

Should Loctite be used on Resco lug bars?

Yes, we recommend purple. You can use blue or red for a more permanent hold.

What is the best way to stay in the Resco loop?

We know we are bad about posting on social media. Check out the Resco Loyals Facebook page (Downrange to Downtown). There is a lot of RESCO there, along with a great group of watch collectors. Resco doesn't run that page; fans do.

Can a guy buff scratches out of his stainless-steel link?

Grab your Dremel and use a 300-grit buffing wheel tip - it works great to buff scratches as well as give your steel link more of a brushed look versus the blasted!

Does Resco sell product on eBay?

Resco has an aftermarket handle on eBay (Resco HQ); we sell floor model pieces (with defects) on eBay. You will always get a better deal working directly through Resco. If you buy a Resco on a site other than rescoinstruments.com, the product may be stolen or fraudulent. From time to time, we participate in collaborative work; feel free to contact us if you would like to verify authenticity.

Are Resco pieces available anywhere other than Resco's website?

Resco's website is the main place to purchase; we don't have physical locations around the country.

Steel link adjustment notes:
If you are struggling, please communicate with us; we can walk you through installation. This should go smoothly.
- Mount steel with the diver (on clasp) toward the 6 o’clock side of the watch.
- When removing links, it is best to equally remove links from the forward/clasp side.
- On each mini lug bar, one screw head is permanent, and one screw can be removed.
- Loctite is recommended for steel (purple).
- End pieces have been tested to ensure the best fit for the serial number you provided.
- You can push the lug bar against a table edge to assist the lug bar through the end piece.
- Micro-adjustment can be made on the clasp; we recommend using a toothpick when adjusting.

How does a guy use a Tidal bezel?
Put the HW (High water) Pip at the time of the nearest high tide.
Monitor tide progress with the fractions on the bezel.
¾ would represent the tide being ¾ lower than high tide.
Your center lume pip always represents high tide.
NW (no water)
The 2 represents the start of the next tide (after the hour hand goes all the way around).
This bezel function is approximate and only good for a 24-hour time period.

If you struggle with this instruction, look for more information online.

How does a guy use a 12 Hour bezel?

You can use this bezel to track a second time zone; align the bezel's hour markers to the desired time difference.

If you struggle with this instruction, find more information online.

How do I change a nylon strap?

Check out this YouTube video

https://youtu.be/-0Uh4zIZtU0

How do I change a leather/ballistic/buffalo/canvas/rubber strap?

Check out this YouTube video

https://youtu.be/pUy6QEgM_C0

How do I install my link bracelet?

Check out this YouTube video