In Safe Hands

At Brufords, the care of a Rolex timepiece is about far more than precision alone. From the quiet focus of the service centre to the personal relationships built on the showroom floor, every service reflects a blend of technical expertise, traditional craftsmanship and genuine client care.

Here, we talk to our Rolex-trained watchmaker Brian Birkmyre, Rolex-trained watch technician Becky Lewis, and Rolex sales manager Aldo Olivieri, to discover what makes our Rolex Authorised Service Centre such a special part of our Rolex experience.

Published on 21st October 2026.

What first inspired you to pursue a career in watchmaking?

Brian: I’ve always had quite an acute attention to detail. That, paired with an interest in jewellery and silversmithing, plus a mechanical engineer for a father, just seemed to strike the right balance. On an open day visit to the School of Jewellery nestled in Birmingham’s historic jewellery quarter, I was told courses in horology (the study of time) were also conducted in the building. My interest was spiked, and I knew I wanted to pursue it.

Becky: Since a young age I’ve enjoyed creating things, DIY projects, and problem solving. I enjoy working with my hands and find a lot of satisfaction in fixing and restoring things, so watchmaking seemed like a natural fit for me.

Among the Rolex watches you have cared for, is there one that stands out for its significance or remarkable story?

Becky: We recently welcomed a Submariner into the workshop for servicing and restoration. Purchased by its owner in 1996, the watch has spent three decades accompanying him on countless recreational dives. Now in his mid-seventies, diving remains his great passion, and when asked how many dives the watch had joined him on, he smiled and replied, "Too many to remember... and we're not finished yet." Stories like this are a reminder that Rolex watches transcend their practical purpose. They become deeply personal objects, carrying memories, achievements, and experiences that cannot be replaced.

How do you balance traditional craftsmanship with modern technology?

Brian: Whilst our industry is continuously striving for developments which lead to more precise timekeeping, the base of any watchmaking endeavour harnesses so many traditional methods and processes. From the design concept to service and overhaul, the fundamentals which make a wristwatch desirable haven’t changed – we are somewhat fascinated by them. When servicing, the procedures and processes we carry out might be conducted with state-of-the-art equipment, but the ritual of assembly and encasing the watch before returning it to the customer encompasses many traditional elements.

Our Rolex Authorised Service Centre

What part of servicing a Rolex do you find most rewarding?

Becky: The moment everything comes together: cleaned, serviced, polished, and running perfectly. I like to imagine seeing it through a customer’s eyes, knowing they’ll receive the watch in the best possible condition. Having worked on the sales floor previously and meeting many customers whose watches hold such precious memories for them, I’ve seen first-hand the joy they experience when they are reunited with their watch following a service.

What would customers be surprised to learn about the care and precision involved in servicing a Rolex watch?

Brian: I think the shear impressiveness of the quality is often misunderstood by clients. If a car does 150,000 miles in 10 years, its wheels will rotate approximately 120 million times - the balance wheel in a watch can achieve these figures in approximately 9 months! Ensuring all the microscopic elements are perfect is the only way to achieve reliability in such a finely tuned mechanism. This takes many hours of patience and precision, as almost all of the most sensitive elements of the service and adjustment are done by hand.

What do you think having an in-house Rolex Authorised Service Centre brings to Brufords and their clients?

Aldo: Having an in-house Rolex Authorised Service Centre is a significant advantage for both Brufords and our clients. It allows us to provide a truly complete Rolex experience, from the initial purchase of a watch through to its long-term care and maintenance. Clients have the reassurance that their timepiece remains in the hands of Rolex-trained watchmakers using Rolex parts and tools, all while dealing with a trusted local team they know personally. For Brufords, it strengthens our relationship with clients by enabling us to support them throughout the entire lifespan of their watch. It reflects our commitment to Rolex's exacting standards and reinforces the confidence our clients place in us.

What makes the Rolex experience at Brufords so special?

Aldo: The combination of world-class craftsmanship and genuine personal service. Rolex is one of the most respected luxury brands in the world, but it is the way we look after our clients that makes their experience memorable. Whether someone is purchasing their first Rolex, adding to a collection, or returning for servicing, we take the time to understand their needs and create a welcoming, relaxed environment. Our knowledgeable team, dedicated Rolex showroom, and in-house service centre allow us to offer a seamless journey that reflects the prestige and heritage of the Rolex brand while maintaining the warmth and family values that Brufords is known for.

With expert craftsmanship and a passion for watchmaking, at Brufords we ensure that every Rolex watch is cared for with the precision it deserves. For more information, visit us in-store at The Beacon, Eastbourne, or contact us by email to rolex@brufords.com.