Servicing a Vintage Datejust

[hellom]

Hey all, I want to service a vintage Datejust 1603 that I inherited from my grandfather. I want to preserve as much of the original watch and condition as possible, while servicing it so that it can remain functional enough for everyday wear. I’m hoping to take it to a local watchmaker (likely Rolliworks) rather than an AD/RSC.

What is OK to replace and what isn’t? For example, I was told by an AD that RSC would replace the acrylic crystal for all watches, and would likely replace the crown for water resistance. Are those generally thought of as OK to replace? Is there anything else I should consider? I’ll also ask for the case to remain unpolished.

I’ve never sent a watch in for servicing before, and this piece in particular has a lot of sentimentality attached to it, so I want to ensure I make the right decisions.

Thanks for your help!

[TudorTom]

Originally Posted by hellom

What is OK to replace and what isn’t? For example, I was told by an AD that RSC would replace the acrylic crystal for all watches, and would likely replace the crown for water resistance. Are those generally thought of as OK to replace? Is there anything else I should consider?

Yes - very common, and encouraged in order to maintain water resistance. Gaskets around the crystal and inside the case will be replaced for the same purpose. I still wouldn't take the watch swimming or wear it in the shower, though.

Originally Posted by hellom

I’ve never sent a watch in for servicing before, and this piece in particular has a lot of sentimentality attached to it, so I want to ensure I make the right decisions.

I always use a qualified local watchmaker for anything I can't handle myself - sending a watch away for service makes me nervous. That, and the staff at my local AD are mostly clueless when it comes to my Tudors.

I don't know how Rolliworks' pricing compares to that of a "neighborhood" watchmaker like the one I use - but I'd use either before RSC/an AD.

[CoinWatchCo]

For a Datejust I would say replacing the crystal and gaskets is alright. The crown could be replaced with a vintage crown if needed though I would check it is needed first. If your Rolex was a 1665 or 5513 I would not suggest replacing the crystal unless desperately needed, I would suggest keeping the original.

As it is a Datejust I think a polish from an AD or Rolex specialist would be good.

I would highly suggest Mike at Rolliworks. I send him my high end Rolex watches and he has done wonders. I can send you some before and after photos if you would like if his work, just send me a message

[Richard Carver]

Don't fall victim to the originality idiocy. This is not a semi-religious object of worship, it's a watch. The crystal, crown and gaskets are consumables, meant to be replaced at service to keep the watch functional. Internal parts are consumables, meant to be replaced as needed.

Those items have been replaced as needed at every service since new. Why get weird now? :)

[05carbondrz]

Originally Posted by Richard Carver

Don't fall victim to the originality idiocy. This is not a semi-religious object of worship, it's a watch. The crystal, crown and gaskets are consumables, meant to be replaced at service to keep the watch functional. Internal parts are consumables, meant to be replaced as needed.

Those items have been replaced as needed at every service since new. Why get weird now? :)

I don’t think wanting a 100% original Watch makes Me an “Idiot” but I’ve been wrong once before.

[Richard Carver]

Originally Posted by 05carbondrz

I don’t think wanting a 100% original Watch makes Me an “Idiot” but I’ve been wrong once before.

Saturday is curmudgeon day. :)

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by Richard Carver

Don't fall victim to the originality idiocy. This is not a semi-religious object of worship, it's a watch. The crystal, crown and gaskets are consumables, meant to be replaced at service to keep the watch functional. Internal parts are consumables, meant to be replaced as needed.

Those items have been replaced as needed at every service since new. Why get weird now? :)

This. #carverforpresident

[Sublovin]

Originally Posted by Richard Carver

Don't fall victim to the originality idiocy. This is not a semi-religious object of worship, it's a watch. The crystal, crown and gaskets are consumables, meant to be replaced at service to keep the watch functional. Internal parts are consumables, meant to be replaced as needed.

Those items have been replaced as needed at every service since new. Why get weird now? :)

This is right on the money!
People have gotten foolish....

[hellom]

Thanks all! Took it to Mike at Rolliworks this morning. He opened it up and told me what he suspected would need changing — gaskets and mainspring. Crown isn’t likely need to be changed because the gasket should be fine and the new service crowns aren’t the same. Crystal may remain but they’ll see how it is when they pressure test.

Had a great time talking to Mike at the shop; would recommend stopping by if you’re in the area.


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