High Street Jeweller for minor works?

[vtecstu]

Wondering if anyone could recommend a particular chain of high street jewellers for doing minor stuff (bracelet adjustment, battery replacement) for what I would regard as a 'nice' watch - Tissot, Christopher Ward etc, rather than a Rolex / Tag / Breitling.

I've used my local Debenhams in the past, but the price of a battery replacement seems to have leapt up from about £7 to £25+ for something pretty basic. Also suspect that they don't really have a clue - I was complimented on my 'Claude Valentini' when I took it in for a battery several years ago, and have heard about them using the wrong type of battery that then fails after a few months.

Any advice? Would you generally find a local watch specialist than bother with any of the high street places?

Mods - don't think this breaks any 'name and shame' rules, but please lock / bin if it does!

[mattley]

I've got a great watch centre that I use for servicing my automatics but they're more than a lunchtime away so I use Goldsmiths for the dat to day stuff. Last week I had a pin go on my Glycine and wanted a link out of the bracelet on the Hamilton. They always quote a tenner for a link and £20 for a new pin with fitting but I always get into a chat about what I might be after next and they try to sell me something hugely expensive on IF Credit.

They never actually charge me for these bits and pieces and when my watch fund permits they will get by business.

[parapaul]

Not sure where you are, but the Watch Lab has a few branches around. Don't be put off by the designer rubbish they sell, their repairs are first class.

http://thewatchlab.co.uk/