Would you replace this crystal during service?

[pk552502]

Hi All, I'm sending in my 16800 for a service and I'm debating if I should replace the crystal. It has some abrasions at the edge of the crystal near 3 o'clock. The crystal is fine otherwise.

Right now I'm leaning toward not replacing the crystal, but I always like to get perspectives.

[joli160]

After a service i want my watches looking brand new so this would bother me.
The damage is pretty noticeably and crystals are cheap.

Usually Rolex always like to sell me a new crystal anyway claiming the pristine old one has chips.

[RRGHOST1]

I would change it at Service.

[Andad]

That crystal integrity is an issue, I would have it replaced based on the small cost.

[Old Expat Beast]

I would. If it's going to an RSC they almost certainly won't guarantee WR without a new one anyway.

[rmagoo57]

Yes, definitely.

[swaini3]

yes

[996marty]

Replacing the crystal for me isn’t the end of the world especially if it’s like for like

[INC]

Yes: Why to keep the used crystal?

[TuRo]

Always a tricky one for me on a Sapphire.

Acrylic I try and keep a soft edged original. That's a no-brainer for me! But on sapphire comes down to wear. Ref mandatory replacement, an RSC Would insist and an indie specialist wouldn't btw.

I still prefer the less pronounced edge of the original sapphire, though the difference (orig.v service.) is not so pronounced as it is on a 1680 acrylic.

If the edge is rough and unsightly or has a visible chip though I replace.

If it's just even micro marks that are not felt with the pad of your finger/thumb, and it's in keeping with the condition of the rest of the watch i.e. a few odd scuffs and marks, I don't replace.

[pk552502]

Originally Posted by INC

Yes: Why to keep the used crystal?

If the sapphire crystal is original and it's been on this watch for over 40 years, a part of me wants to leave it as is. I'm including a couple additional pictures without 10x zoom and you can see it is rather minor. I didn't even really notice it for a while.

I don't plan to polish this particular watch at service, so it will have a more patina look to it. I'm going the independent route.

It's kind of like restoring an old car and keeping the patina and original paint. But I agree sun spots on a car would be OK but straight up rust is not.

[brandrea]

Originally Posted by Andad

That crystal integrity is an issue, I would have it replaced based on the small cost.

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

I would. If it's going to an RSC they almost certainly won't guarantee WR without a new one anyway.

I agree, I’d have it replaced

[1William]

Yes.

[0nly5iv3Digits]

Replace it, no question in my mind.

[INC]

Originally Posted by pk552502

If the sapphire crystal is original and it's been on this watch for over 40 years, a part of me wants to leave it as is.

Thank you for the pictures and information: Based on these, I withdraw my previous opinion. Now, I'd say keep it as is because you won't gain anything by changing the crystal. This would only be a plastic surgery, which would make the watch look younger than its age, but in the same time it would lose a part of its sentimental value.

Thomas Bertram Lance: If it ain't broke, don't fix it

[Dom9]

There is something about a watch with a new crystal or plexi - it just shines, in a good way!