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Frank's Jewelry & Watch Repairing
Categories: Shopping Jewelry Local Services Watch Repair Jewelry, Watch Repair [Edit]
2839 N Clark St(between Broadway St & Diversey Pky)
Chicago, IL 60657
Neighborhood: Lakeview
(773) 348-6268
Announcement
Valentine quandary? Flowers wilt, candy is dandy but sits on the hips. Jewelry is sugar free except for your message, engraved at no charge!
Announced one week ago- Nearest Transit:
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Diversey (Brown Line, Purple Line)
Wellington (Brown Line, Purple Line)
- Hours:
Tue-Fri 12 pm - 7 pm
Sat 10:30 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
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$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
57 reviews for Frank's Jewelry & Watch Repairing
Review Highlights
"...and efficient service I received at this family owned shop."
(in 3 reviews)
"that the necklace was ready."
(in 7 reviews)
"This place is great."
(in 3 reviews)
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57 reviews in English
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Review from J M.
Chicago, IL
2/8/2012
A couple of years ago, I bought an Omega watch on eBay that was defective. In the process of getting my money back, ebay asked me to provide professional evaluation about the defect. I brought the watch to Omega dealers in town, while they agreed that the watch was defective, but none were willing to give me a letter as proof to eBay. So, I walked in Frank's. I explained my situation, she was so nice and understanding. She wrote me the note in 5min.
If ever I need to have a watch repaired, I will use Frank's. -
Review from Gwen T.
Chicago, IL
1/18/2012
Awesome place. Based on Yelp reviews I dropped off three watches for repairs, and they were ready later that day at a great price. While I was in there I checked out all the wonderful jewelry they have -- it's also priced extremely well, and I ended up leaving with not only my watches but a gold chain and a gift for a friend. I'll definitely be back for the jewelry, and of course watch repair if it ever comes up again!
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Review from Derek R.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 12/2/2011
Still a fan, great service again. Super cheap for watch repairs.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/9/2007 First to Review
Walked in, had a few links taken out of my new watch, 5 min and $5 later I was done. The ladies… Read more »
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Review from Madalyne T.
Chicago, IL
11/25/2011
I got my engagement ring re sized here. I didn't want to go to one of the downtown places, and, honestly, I prefer to go to a place in my neighborhood, and YELP led me to Frank's. It's a cute little place on clark st. I called on a Tuesday to ask for a quote, was quoted $20 for a white gold ring that needed to go bigger, and about a week for it to be done. Sounds Great! I Brought it in that evening, a very nice lady greeted me and immediately was able to size my finger. Super quick service & she told me I could come back on Saturday to pick it up, (less than a week)!! YAY! I came in to pick up on Saturday and was greeted right away, shown my ring :-) and she asked me to try it on to make sure it was a perfect fit. They did a FABULOUS job with the metal work. I will come here for any jewelry repair!
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Review from kris k.
Chicago, IL
10/28/2011
I immediately began spreading the word about this place to my friends. We found Frank's while walking down the street with a watch needing a new battery, a bracelet with a broken clasp and a broken, extremely delicate silver chain I got caught in a zipper. Each item had been out of commission for at least a month, with the bracelet waiting to be fixed for over a year so I was anxious to find a decent jewelry store.
From the outside, the place looks a little shady. I was a bit reluctant to go in, but figured I'd at least get a new watch battery. Holy cannoli! So very happy to have found this place. Watch battery replaced, check. Broken clasp fixed on the spot AND free of charge, check check! It took her a good 10 minutes too. Talk about the warm & fuzzies of a family business passed down over the generations. This is some serious customer service you'd be hard pressed to find anywhere else in the city.
The real cherry on top was hearing they could repair my chain and for only $8! We were sure we'd have to buy a new one. I love this place. -
Review from Elizabeth S.
Chicago, IL
3/19/2011
Thanks fellow Yelpers for sharing your experiences with Frank's Jewelry & Watch Repair.
Last weekend, I snagged a spot in the loading zone a few stores north of the place and was buzzed in for my jewelry repair needs. I had a necklace that needed to be re-strung and I was hoping that all of the reviews would lead me to a positive experience. I was given my ticket and told to come back in one week. I did just that, picked up my repaired necklace for a grand total of $18, well worth it, and my piece was good as new. And yes, I managed to nab a spot in the loading zone a few stores up that time as well.
Hopefully, I don't have any other jewelry repair needs but if I do, I will definitely head back to Frank's. -
Review from Katarina X.
Chicago, IL
1/3/2011
Handsome Boyfriend inherited a watch from his Grandfather. His Grandfather was beloved... he still wears the watch, even though it had long since stopped working. It also had a battered band, scratched face and the date function froze far, far back.
I have been waiting for a chance to take it for repair for over a year now. Think about that. A YEAR! If I thought I could pry it off him while he was sleeping and get away with it I would have...
Finally he went out of town for a week! I stealthily snuck watch over here for repair. After reading reviews on yelp, especially during the
Holidays I was prepared to be camped out here for a week or better! This was NOT the case... Cheryl popped the backing, replaced the battery, cleaned the watch, updated the date and even replaced the face in less time than it takes to order a latte, It was awesome. I briefly debated engraving, but decided that really wouldn't go well on a family heirloom.
When he opened the box, he and his family thought it was brand-new watch. They were all very excited to see it, talk about it, and admire both the watch itself and his Grandfather. It could not have been a better present. Cheryl didn't just polish a watch, she polished the memories of an entire family!
I should add my favorite part of the place wasn't the speedy service, the affordable price or the gorgeous shopping options (check out the contents of those polished cases!) My Favorite: the adorable drawings on the wall from the children of the owners. I will definitely be back!Listed in: Boy Shopping
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Review from Leigha I.
Chicago, IL
4/17/2011
I went to this shop after reading a few reviews on yelp and I was not disappointed by their service. My boyfriend had a very nice watch that he had to stop wearing because the band broke and I wanted to surprise him with a new band. When I walked into the shop there were a few other customers waiting, so I patiently waited for my turn. The shop is very small and quaint. One negative thing I could say is in my opinion, it is disorganized, but if the employees can work in that disarray and still meet their customers needs then that is fine by me.
Initially, I was a little turned off because I was not greeted soon after my arrival, but then I realized the woman was fixing the items as soon as she got them in her hands and she was the only one there! She work very efficiently so in less than 10 minutes I was next in line. She showed me a few choices for a new band and once I made the selection, I had the watch with the new band in my hand 5 minutes later. The cost was low, and I was out of there in no time! My boyfriend was very pleased with my gesture and I was very pleased with Frank's! If I ever have other jewelry that is in need of an "operation" I will be going back there! -
Review from Molly L.
6/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
My watch battery recently died, so I took it to Frank's to get it replaced. They swapped it out quickly and it only cost me $10. Hooray! Unfortunately, as I was walking down the street an hour later, my watch popped off my wrist. When the lady at Frank's put my watch back together, the pin must not have been all the way in. I took it back in and they fixed it quickly while apologizing profusely. The service is great and the prices are low. I will definitely be back in the event of future jewelry mishaps!
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Review from Roseann M.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 9/17/2010
So, this time around, I took in a necklace for repair to the clasp. I took it in on May 20th. I got it back on Sept. 9. The cost was $5.00. The clasp does work now. And I'm disgusted.
I originally called to check on the progress of the repair in early June. I was told that they were waiting for the clasp to come in. OK. In mid-July, I called again; at that point, I was concerned because the claim ticket says that Frank's was not responsible for items left more than 60 days, and it was getting perilously close to the 60-day mark. They were on vacation. And by the way, the answering machine does not take messages at any time, so you can only call during business hours and hope that someone picks up the phone.
In late July, I reached someone. I was told that I would receive a call when the necklace was ready. More silence. In the first week of September, I called again, and said I was inquiring about the repair for ticket number whatever. The woman answering the phone said to another woman, this lady is asking about this ticket number, and I heard, "Oh, THAT one!" I heard #2 say to #1, it should be ready soon. Don't call us, we'll call you. Lovely. I debated with myself whether I should just go over and get the necklace, forget entirely about Frank's, and find someplace that would make the repair before the next global ice age began.
About a week later, Frank's left me a phone message on Saturday afternoon (MY phone takes messages!) that the necklace was ready. And I got there as soon as I could. And a miracle occurred - there were 2 people working, and no customers in the store besides myself. I paid up and hustled myself out of there.
Now, Gentle Reader, before using Frank's, you have to ask yourself: do I feel lucky? It'll cost very few dollars. But do you want to put up with a possible wait of months? Literally, months? For me, I'd rather go somewhere else, maybe pay a little bit more, and actually get my repair made in a reasonable amount of time. This little adventure cost me a lot more in angst than it saved me in dollars. It's a shame, because I'd like to see more family-run, neighborhood places stay in business. But geez, 3 1/2 months? For a clasp? Unbelievable. And unacceptable.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/2/2010
Frank's is one of those old-style Chicago places you think exist only in a Nelson Algren novel. It… Read more »
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Review from Jason C.
Chicago, IL
11/6/2010
Do not go on a Saturday morning. I just returned from Frank's and I waited over 30 minutes just to get helped. They just service the next in line and do not ask anyone standing in line if you want to leave your repairs behind and return later to pick them up. This would have been better than just standing and waiting.
That being said, once I was helped, the service was friendly and relatively fast. I got my battery changed in my watch and it was reasonable - $10. -
Review from Sarah R.
Chicago, IL
11/1/2011
Needed a watch battery changed, which seems like such a simple task, but I couldn't seem to find a good place to go. I found Frank's on Yelp and saw that it had good reviews and I agree! They changed my battery in just a few minutes while I waited and at a very reasonable price. I will definitely go back here if I need another changed.
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Review from Will G.
Chicago, IL
10/29/2011
Great! Very reasonably priced watch repair.
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Review from Beth P.
Chicago, IL
11/19/2008
Everything about this little place is charming, but then again, I do love this part of Clark St.
We rushed in on a freezing night, and the friendly women let us bring our shivering puppy in, too. They even gave her a treat. Cute news clippings line the walls; you can really tell this is a close family business.
My watch was polished up, and had a new battery in about 2 minutes, for only $10. Two minutes wasn't really enough to check out their selection of watches, cute pins, and rings, because I was drooling over the turquoise items. There couldn't have been a friendlier vibe in this place.
We'll be back! -
Review from Brian T.
Chicago, IL
3/19/2011
I wish I owned more than one watch! This place is amazing. I broke the pin on my watch and they fixed it in 5 minutes for less than I paid for a cup of coffee this morning. They just earned my business FOREVER...
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Review from Leah P.
Chicago, IL
6/25/2008
After the snooty guy in a finely pressed pink shirt at Movado told me it would take 6 -8 weeks to fix my watch (it has to be sent to NJ), I decided to explore my options.
I checked out yelp for guidance and I read about Frank's. I live in Lakeview so I was fired up. The ladies working were as sweet as they were fast. It took about 10 minutes for the lady to diagnose the problem and give my watch a new battery. Ten dollars for a battery with a year warranty!
I would recommend this place to anyone! Awesome service, fast and CHEAP! Five Stars! -
Review from colette s.
Chicago, IL
5/17/2011
Thanks to Yelp for helping me find this place!
I damaged my tension-set engagement ring, and after a frustrating experience with a fancypants jeweler in the Loop, my husband reminded me of Frank's, which had fixed his watch earlier in the year.
We wandered in on a Saturday afternoon, and was given an estimate of $20, which was great. Service was friendly, and no attitude about the fact that I'd chosen a synthetic diamond (dear other jewelers: I don't come into your store and give you crap about the ethics of the diamond industry, because I think buying a stone is a personal decision. Please extend me the same courtesy).
They had to send it off because it was tension set, and they said it would probably be done the following Saturday.My husband phoned them on Friday on the way home, on the off chance, and it was ready to be collected.
The woman explained that the man who had done the repair had to add a small bridge as the metal was really twisted, and so they'd been charged $40. Would it be ok to split the difference and charge $30? He said $40 was reasonable, and insisted, and handed the card over. She charged $30! He didn't have any cash on him, but couldn't believe how nice and honest they were. She said she didn't like to go over estimates, which I respect a lot.
So I am impressed with the quality of the work and also with their price, and the fact that they try to be honest with their customers. This place is a gem (pardon the pun), and was worth traveling across Chicago for! -
Review from Dab s.
Chicago, IL
1/9/2010
Can't say enough about this place. I own several timepieces. A while back I needed links removed from one of my old Rollies I hadn't worn in a while. After resurrecting it for a holiday party last month, I decided later I wanted one more link taken out, as she suggested to me my last visit to Frank's, but I declined because the slightly loose fit felt fine at that time (women give me great advice all the time, I need to get better at taking it more often, because they usually end up being right, ugh!).
Taking it in was a snap. I luckily got here when I was second in line, and the first lady was in front of me really had more questions about her piece. You could say she was all talk, no action, which was great in this particular case! I've been in here before and waited up to an hour due to heavy traffic, so if you're coming here, BRING READING MATERIAL. Don't say I didn't scoop you on that tip.....
The great thing about this place is that they fix everything on the spot (which is why your waits are usually around 25-30 minutes on the average visit). They handle the most expensive jewelry in the world, have surgeon-like precision in handling it, and charge next to nothing to send you off with a big grin on your face.
I love Franks. Family owned business who has had this location on lock-down for years. Any problems or adjustments you need with your watch or jewelry, no matter where you live, this is your place and it is worth the visit. -
Review from Susan F.
12/6/2009
Yep 5 stars. This place is great! Fast, friendly, and cheap.
I took a watch to get resized, that took about 3 minutes. Had a necklace repair, took about 6 minutes. Cost =$7...amazing. They only take credit cards for amounts over $10 FYI.
I was very pleased and am happy it's so close to me and so cheap! -
Review from Edie B.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 2/16/2011
My husband had a ring made for me on the sly at Franks this last Xmas. The whole process involved him stealing a drawing I did of a ring, extracting granny's diamonds from the safety deposit box, making away with a ring from an adjacent finger I wear regularly for purposes of sizing, purchasing precious metals for the setting, and who knows what else... I will say this, I probably do not have a future in jewelry design, but the people at Franks made something thrilling for me out of a patchwork of ideas and guesses. I'll wear it always. Thanks, Franks!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/20/2009
Dude. How does a person who never wears jewelry need a jeweler so often? Honestly, I wear silver and… Read more »
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Review from J. T.
Bloomington, IN
9/1/2008
Needed a battery for an upscale Relic. Read Yelp reviews and chose Frank's. Parked at a meter 20 seconds from the shop. Was buzzed inside (just a security feature), then waited in line maybe 15 minutes. This was longer than we'd usually desire to wait, but there was jewelry to ponder over, a few funny quotes and Dalai Lama words of wisdom to read, and the news on a tiny tv with rabbit ears. Shop is also cluttered, although rather endearingly so.
Two workers (one repairing, one assisting a customer who was oblivious to the forming line) were kind and thorough (yes, even to oblivious gal) and obviously were highly experienced and knew their stock. Both apologized to us for the "long" wait.
Once we were served, it took about 5 minutes to change the battery. YAY! And 10 bucks including tax. YAY YAY!
All for about a half-hour for drive time, parking, waiting, and walking out with a watch that works again, with helpful and courteous employees. -
Review from Nicole B.
Chicago, IL
9/21/2009
Frank's is a sweet, musty mom-and-pop operation. They have watches and jewelry for sale on display, but these displays look as though they haven't been changed in decades. The area behind the counter looks like someone's home after a natural disaster-- old clothes, toys, and junk are everywhere. After reading the positive reviews of this place, though, I entrusted my diamond necklace to them for a week. I have my fingers crossed that they won't lose it. They're repairing the clasp for $10, a fair price.
I asked them to fix my broken watch. I don't know what's wrong with it; sometimes it just stops working. The jeweler took a look at it and suggested that it was just dirty, so she cleaned the insides for me at no charge. It stopped again three days later. It's great that she didn't charge me, but if you need complicated watch repairs beyond replacing a battery or removing links I'd suggest going elsewhere.
The service is friendly and fair. This is a good place to visit if you need simple repairs done cheaply. -
Review from Anne F.
Chicago, IL
5/27/2011
The ladies at Frank's are so nice. I love the fact that they have kept their father's business going for so many years. They have newspaper articles about their Dad taped up on the wall to read as you wait for your repairs. The place is not fancy and sterile, but they have great jewelry (I recently bought 2 First Communion gifts--perfect jewelry for little girls). Their repairs are done very well. I have had everything done--watch battery replacement, watch band replacement, ring sizing and cleaning. I'd rather go here than any chain store that has impersonal service. As a long time Lakeview resident, I won't go to anybody else for jewelry repair.
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Review from Jessie N.
Chicago, IL
5/20/2011
I looked on yelp for a clock repair shop for a wedding gift clock that did not keep the correct time, and was not solved by changing the battery... I tried Frank's after reading a few reviews and was not disappointed. I went during the week around 4pm and snagged a 15 minute loading zone spot right in front of the strore on Clark St., flipped on my hazards and was thankfully in and out within 10 minutes. The shop is very small as others have mentioned, but no one was waiting when I arrived so I had no line time. The hour hand on my clock had slipped off its groove and the service I received to fix it was free, she simply said bring it back if it stops again. You truly can't get much better than that. Thanks Frank's!
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Review from Karyn K.
Chicago, IL
1/21/2009
Walked in tonight to get my watch battery replaced. Turns out the battery didn't need to be replaced, just cleaned out. All done (for free!!!) in less than ten minutes. Will be returning when I actually need the watch battery.
It's a little odd to have to knock/buzz, but they are very quick to respond. -
Review from Anthony C.
Seattle, WA
2/25/2009
Excellent service and price. I took two watches in to have the batteries replaced, about noon on a Tuesday. My wife and I were the only ones there when we arrived, but shortly after the place filled up, and I can tell why they do great business.
It took mere minutes to replace the battery in one of the watches, and then the woman doing the work told me the other watch didn't need a battery, but simply had some dust and debris in it from the last time I had the battery changed that needed to be cleared out. Now I have two working watches, and only paid for one battery change. I spent $10 and at most 15 minutes here. Great place. -
Review from Jamie C.
Chicago, IL
9/30/2010
The Frank sisters were sincerely sweet and fixed 2 of my watches within minutes and only charged me $10.00. The shop is full of beautiful antique jewelry and I will definitely go back to get a better look at some of their pieces.
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Review from Marc Y.
Philadelphia, PA
8/6/2008
This place was awesome! I went in for a simple battery replacement for two watches. After a slight wait, I was taken care of promptly. The woman was friendly. It only costs $10 per watch, with a 1yr guarantee! (Keep the receipt.)
They are closed on Mondays.
Highly recommended.
I recommend finding street parking and pay the meter. Do not park in the lot across the street. You won't need to spend the money for such a quick, turn-around service.
Thank you for the recommendation Yelpers! -
Review from Antonio F.
Las Vegas, NV
2/6/2011
In one word ... Great!
I found myself with a of broken watch ...then the dilemma of where do I get it fixed? These are the reasons why I would come back:
1. Good service: sincere and friendly staff.
2. Low price: Cheap, cheap, cheap.
3. Reliability: After many months, my watch still works fine.
4. Fast: No waiting for service. However it might take few minutes to repair whatever you bring.
5. Location: excellent. Easy street parking.
Cons:
This s the only one I could notice:
1. "Ghetto" look: a bit disorganized.
Bottom line, if you don't mind too much about the looks, this place is awesome! -
Review from Stephanie L.
Chicago, IL
7/1/2010
Cheap, fast, nice service. This is always where I go to exchange my watch batteries. Its kind of hidden and looks totally shady...especially because you have to buzz yourself in with a doorbell on the outside and there are bars all over the windows....not really sure why but hey whatever works.
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Review from Arlene A.
3/10/2010
Quick, efficient service on the cheap. What else could you possibly ask for? I got links taken off my watch, and three batteries replaced. They offer discounts for battery replacement if you bring in 3 or more, which is a great deal, considering how inexpensive the charges are anyway.
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Review from Emily C.
Chicago, IL
5/26/2011
This place is great! I went in to have a few links removed from a new watch and was out the door in about 5 minutes...only spending $5. The woman behind the counter could not have been nicer. Great experience. I will definitely go back.
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Review from Preenu J.
Chicago, IL
4/8/2010
A while back I made a trek out here due to the yelp reviews, and a ring I had that was way too big on me. Not only was Frank's cheaper than the first three places I got quotes from, they were extremely nice, and knowledgeable. The store itself is tiny, and has an old time feel to it, as if things are simple here and have not been messed with for a while. They have a random assortment of jewelry and watches that you can choose to buy. They do quality work that doesn't take too long for a very good price. What's not to love? I'll definitely be back here for my jewelry needs. P.s parking here is kinda difficult because the location of this store is in a very crowded area, but you're sure to find some meter parking, somewhere. Totally worth that hassle!
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Review from adrian n.
Chicago, IL
11/12/2010
I waited half hour to replace the battery in my Invicta and when she get mi watch she told me she dont have the tool to open it.Not nice.
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Review from Andrew P.
Chicago, IL
9/9/2009
I cracked the face on my Skagen watch. I brought it to several jewelry places in the city that told me they would have to send it out and it would take 3-4 weeks and cost around $60. I took it to Frank's and had it back in 4 days and it cost $20. Viva la Frank's!!
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Review from Tuya S.
Chicago, IL
4/12/2009
Omega, Longines, Patek, I think I'm more adept to parading my marvelous possessions rather than writing useful review in here. Oh well
If you are non-mainstream, rebel, trendy, hip, socialist proletariat you may like its lack of glamor. The small family run business resembles dusty, old fashioned antique store. When you walk in there's a line of two or three people waiting for their turn. I stood my fair share of line during my childhood filled with communal nuptials-hence waiting 15 minutes is actually considered fast. The two women who work there take in right away your watch if it needs just minor repair. However, if it requires more attention they schedule pick up after few days. Initially I was little hesitant to trust my bling bling to any watchmaker after what they did to my other possession in Tourneau. My doubts quickly cleared as I saw fast and professional business the ladies were providing. The batteries that they replaced on my watch cost me only 10 bucks. Sharp service, just the way I like it; cheap and non-verbose -
Review from Rich K.
Miami, FL
5/3/2010
I don't think there is a more no-nonsense watch repair store than this place. I have never paid $10 to replace a watch battery. These ladies don't play around, they mark every battery they change, so don't even think about coming back and complaining. I made that mistake once, and I promise never to doubt the daughters of Frank.
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Review from tk c.
Chicago, IL
3/29/2011
This is one of the best watch repair shop i have been to, period. The service is great and the work is done right. The price point is extremely competitive. These are hard working, honest, and competent watch repairers.
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Review from Luke S.
7/7/2009 1 Check-in Here
What a great place! There seems to be some sort of controlled chaos throughout the store. I rarely wear my watch, but I thought after a few years of a dead battery it was time to get it fixed. They were able to replace the battery in a matter of minutes for only $10. The employees (family) were very friendly. I will be coming back here if I ever need any jewelry or watch work done.
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Review from Rob U.
Chicago, IL
7/28/2010
Chalk up yet another very satisfied customer! I've been to Frank's a few times in the last couple months after discovering them (thanks to Yelp!) and will continue to bring my business to them whenever necessary. Extremely fair prices for great quality work. Friendly, fast service. What more could you ask for? I don't yet own any real collector's watches but I wouldn't hesitate to bring the finest timepieces or jewelry to Frank's.
