Overhaul my DJ but undecided by whom...RSC or Independent

[jlm003]

As stated, I want to overhaul my SS "F" Series DateJust that I use daily. The watch has no issues as far as accuracy, function, crystal, dial, hands or crown. The bracelet does have the normal "desk diving" scratches associated with its use but it's my impression that they can be buffed out.

What are my expectations? To bring it back to it's original look as well as replacing/adjusting/cleaning/lubricating the innards to a state that it merits.

However, after reading dozens of posts regarding this matter, I'm now more confused and perplexed if I should have it done at the Dallas RSC or by an independent shop.

I'm leaning more toward an independent but have no idea as to which one. I would appreciate any and all recommendations with the accepted caveat that any suggestion given bears no responsibility for the outcome.

Thanks in advance for your time and advice.

[jlm003]

PS: My major concern is the external refinishing and from what I've read it seems that the RSC results are not overall convincing with customers having to send them back because of flaws.

One post even states that RSC Dallas has a "correction specialist" that does just that... correct the mistakes/flaws that their employees have made. The fact that they have such a person is not very reassuring and since the external refinishing is my main concern, thus my being skewed toward an independent shop.

Hopefully you guys will help me find this unicorn!

[mmaggi]

It sounds like all you want is a standard service. I can only say with certainty that an independent will be cheaper.

Can you find a reputable, local watch maker to service it? That would be my suggestion.

[mmaggi]

Many of this forum speak well of Rolliworks

https://www.rolliworks.com/

[SearChart]

Personally I'd always send it to RSC.

[joli160]

Why you want to throw 1K in the water for a service on a watch with no issues ?

If you must;

I'd go for a normal daily beater to a RSC for service.

For a classic watch definitely Rolliworks for a refinish if that's what the watch needs.
Some truly amazing pictures here of his work. Together with LAWW I have never seen a better job in making a watch look sharp

[Robtayham]

I’m thinking a F series dates it to 2004.

If so, that’s far from being a vintage, classic watch. It’s a mass produced, modern watch that is not, and will not, be a collectible. Disclaimer: I bought my TT DJ new in 1984. Still wear it and I don’t consider it vintage or classic or collectible.

Send your watch to RSC Dallas / NY.

Just my opinion. You have to do what you think is best.

[jlm003]

Thanks to all for your input and I will reconsider sending the DJ to RSC for service although I must admit that I'm still a bit hesitant.

Why? Because of prior negative experiences with both the NYC and Dallas RSC's

In the case of my prize possession, my Cosmograph, I had it serviced some years ago at the NYC-RSC and had to send it back due to very bad case and bracelet refinishing.

Not having learned my lesson, I sent my Turn-O-Graph to the Dallas RSC with the hope and as many told me, would do a better job with the case and bracelet. Wrong, this one I had to sent back twice!

I should add that both watches, as well as my DJ, were/are keeping perfect time and the cases/bracelets in good shape... no deep scratches, gouges, etc. So I just can't fathom why or how they could screw up the refinishing and even more perplexing is what seems to be very lax QC.

Well in both cases I must admit that this happened years ago, so hopefully they now have their act together.

PS: I'm attaching pictures of the two watches for your perusal.

[vesnyder]

My 35 year old DJ is being serviced at Rolliworks and should be back in less that two weeks. Basic overhaul. So far so good. Will be sure to let you know how the experience ends.