1942 Rolex Skyrocket

[Jimcanuck]

Hello

This is my grandfather's Rolex, he was an RCAF pilot in WW2. Everything is as purchased, all original, including the leather airman's strap. Has never been serviced to my knowledge, all parts original.

A couple of questions - does it require any maintenance or can it be left as is without worry? And does anyone have a sense of value? I understand this is a rare piece.

Thanks :)

[larryccf]

nice watch, and the accessories really do a nice job giving a glimpse into the "styles" of that era.

you might try posting over on the MWR forum, they're heavily into military era watches, i suspect they'll be more tuned into actual value.

As to repairing or restoring it, i don't know about a Rolex that old, ie whether to let Rolex service it - they have a reputation for replacing components, like the dial, hands etc that they feel need replacing, but removing them degrades value.

There are a number of independent Rolex service people that do outstanding work, a few that are members here.

If exporting your watch to the US is a concern, there's a watchmaker in BC, Canada that actually does outstanding work but i don't know if he'll tackle something this old. His name is Steve Cotton, and i'll PM you his contact info. He actually mfgrs some small parts for Rolex

congrats on a nice watch -

[J_H]

WOW! That is insane, congrats!

[DONGinsler]

Yes it requires maintenance before using if it's been sitting all this time. Oil dries out and could cause wear to some areas of the movement.

Caliber 59 with 17 jewels. Signed under the dial.

Not a military piece, but military look. Sold through the PX's most likly with other numerous Canadian Rolex models and the Rocket's twin. The Victory.

The Victory and Rocket were sold in Rolex sign or contract signed cases with Rolex signed more valuable. Also type of case with Sterling Silver and signed Rolex at the top

While it's nice you have the original box. The overall condition of the gold filled case is poor. Well used watch with wear.

Little rub with a jewellers rouge cloth and a new crystal with clean it up a bit

Rolex will not repair it as parts are long discontinued, but you may not need anything. Just a clean and crystal

Don't wind or try to run it.

If in Toronto. Maybe Google Shane Ede. He might be able to help tif you want to bring it back to life and wear.

DON

[WCHROLX]

Its a nice watch but i think it need maintenance and good polishing.
Needs servicing from professionals.

[Dr.Smellody]

Originally Posted by WCHROLX

Its a nice watch but i think it need maintenance and good polishing.
Needs servicing from professionals.

No polishing except the crystal.

[vintagewatch]

If you want to wear the watch as a functioning timepiece service is definitely required. As far as value and additional information here's a link to an auction from 2014.

https://www.aspireauctions.com/#!/ca...1720/lot/69491

[RyanPrasad]

Very cool!

[emersm]

I love the watch and that you have all of the original accessories.

That strap!

[dhknola]

Very cool find; the original bracelet and case really make it special.

[214270Explorer]

Thank you for showing us this nice old Rolex!

Keep it as much "as is" as possible. (A new crystal, if you go wanted to go that route) would not cause any devaluation. But from what I can see the crystal may only need a bit of polishing.

[Jimcanuck]

Thanks all for the comments. I gave it a bit of a polish with a fine cloth and looks much better. Was a green residue on the metal (bronze?).

From the military watch board the strap is not original to the piece, it's a pocket watch holder from probably earlier than 1940.

I've put it in the display cabinet, and there she shall remain. Unless I happen upon a major vintage / military watch auction from one of the better houses!

Will get a better camera and post of picture of it in its current resting place.

[Rebel]

Sweet.

[Razorsedge1]

What a great glimpse into history! Look forward to seeing some more pictures.