******************************** In the early 1990s, the brand Mahara (MHR) quietly gained popularity among watch enthusiasts. Though it was absorbed by Franck Muller some time ago, even now in the 2020s, there are still stunning watches like the “Sparviero,” “Red Devil,” and “Kuma” that captivate collectors.
Arguably, the Sparviero is the most famous. If I found one in good condition in this color, I’d still want it today.
I own two Mahara watches myself. One is a chronograph that has appeared a few times on this blog, and the other is a mechanical watch called the Guilloché.
The chronograph is quartz-powered. Besides battery replacements, I had it overhauled a few years ago. It’s still running fine, but since replacement straps are no longer available, I treat it with extra care.
On the other hand, the Guilloché has been neglected. I believe I bought it used at a jewelry shop called Hirosawa in the mid-1990s. It has an ETA movement. Despite being over 25 years old, it still starts ticking when I give it a few shakes.
Recently, I heard rumors that overhauling old ETA movements is becoming increasingly difficult. So, I asked a question on the Q&A section of tamtime, where I have turned to several times before: tamtime Q&A
They responded quickly. It seems overhauling is still possible without issues, and the cost would be under 30,000 yen, which is reasonable.
I haven’t used this watch much lately; it’s been gathering dust in my desk drawer. But I figured I’d send it for an overhaul and have it serve alongside my other veteran watches until I retire.
I’ve already ordered the “estimate request kit” from tamtime, and once I get the formal estimate, I’ll report back here.