Generic Rolex watch parts

[SOG DIVER]

While doing research on balance staffs and axles, I came across
Rolex watch parts advertised in ETSY.
A packet of apparent & marked caliber: 3135 blister pack axles(10): marked as follows:: 3135 Generic Rolex axle (10). -Watchmaker (2) German Tech (3) hand made.

So-while it appears that while Rolex may be closing some independent accounts,the free enterprise capitalist parts suppliers are providing parts:

1. Are they high quality parts?
2. Within Rolex specs?
3. Excellent metallurgy?
4. Same or better wear characteristics?
5. Origin-China or Europe?

Or-Does it vary.................?

A response from our horologists/watchmakers/CW 21s on parts availability prognosis respectfully requested.

[SearChart]

I have no experience with aftermarket/generic movement parts, I'd suspect that they are of lesser quality but I really don't know for sure.

[strafer_kid]

With increasing restrictions on Rolex parts availablity, it will be interesting over time to see how the aftermarket parts scene develops and maps out, not least of all in terms of build quality etc

[gunhose]

I would say they will not be the same quality as Rolex.

[Acidstain]

Aftermarket rolex parts have been around for over a decade.

Most are made in asia (china).

Recently, there have been swiss made aftermarket parts entering the market. But so far they have only started with the smaller (and relatively fast moving parts) IE. 2130 sliding pinion (always wears out), and axles for the most popular calibers (15xx, 21xx, 30xx, 31xx).

[Andad]

I would feel confident stating that Rolex manufacture their watches using the best quality materials available.

Aftermarket generic Rolex parts suppliers not so much.

[SearChart]

If there's ever a shortage of certain parts and I happen to own a vintage Rolex, I'll just make my own parts.

[Robtayham]

I stay away from aftermarket parts.

Nothing wrong with buying fake parts or even fake Rolex watches.

Just not for me.

[Cryten]

Originally Posted by Robtayham

I stay away from aftermarket parts.

Nothing wrong with buying fake parts or even fake Rolex watches.

Just not for me.

It's funny how after market watch parts are "fake" to watch people, while after market car parts are "reproduction" parts to car guys.

Go to any car show and you'll see cars made entirely of repro parts. Essentially fake cars, and no one bats an eyelid.

I don't have a horse in this race, i just find the contrast interesting.

[Robtayham]

Originally Posted by Cryten

It's funny how after market watch parts are "fake" to watch people, while after market car parts are "reproduction" parts to car guys.

Go to any car show and you'll see cars made entirely of repro parts. Essentially fake cars, and no one bats an eyelid.

I don't have a horse in this race, i just find the contrast interesting.

For me ‘fake’ in the sense not Rolex OEM parts. Aftermarket / replica / imitation parts that Rolex would require to be replaced.

[subtona]

the minute and subtle differences of the machining process, i am sure are proprietary as well as the metallurgy formulas that rolex uses so each and every part plays nice together and wears at the correct rate vs the other components it comes into contact with.

ie even if the intent of the aftermarket parts manufacturer was to make the best darn available alternative parts out there, i strongly believe that manufacturer would still be at a significant disadvantage over OEM manufacturing process and performance.

potentially experiencing breakage or premature wear causing significant damage and/or expense... not to mention the hurdles and shame one would have to endure when that watch finds its way to RSC

[watchdogitalia]

Star Time supply has a good selection of swiss made mechanical parts that look and feel the same as rolex and are even packaged the same.

They also have Chinese made for less but you can generally see the difference in quality

[SOG DIVER]

Recently heard from two U.S. ADs, and one in Amsterdam:
ADs are being advised to return ANY watch for service of any sort-
if non-Rolex parts are found in, on or attached to the watch.

Apparently Rolex may be aware of the issues involved, and is taking steps to correct/police their side of the market as best they can. I see independent watchmakers working on more vintage and "modern" Rolex references. (Also learned that Rolex has grown tired of competing against its own desirable vintage watches.)
Well...maybe they should make more of their SS sports watches available to their dealers. The elves in Geneva must have their own marketing plan unknown to mortals.

[fsprow]

If valid I guess one would need to remove a non-Rolex bracelet (e.g. Rubber B) before sending the watch to a Rolex RSC or AD.

Also, on the "make more" subject, under Swiss law it is very difficult to add extra shifts - even paying overtime - to allow an increase in production over a short time span. Of course the SS "shortage" may be long or short term, it depends on how Rolex management views the longer term demand outlook I'd day.

[Tools]

Aftermarket parts have been around for decades and there are likely millions of watches with such parts.

If a watchmaker does not have a Rolex parts account, he may use aftermarket parts on Rolex as well as many other brands. Rolex is actually pushing watchmakers towards aftermarket suppliers by eliminating parts accounts.

Rolex has also stated that they will no longer make parts for their vary popular and numerous 15xx movements. Again, the aftermarket supplier is where these parts will only be found.

[Bob_Sacamano]

Hi, I won t buy there. Etsy is full of scammers. It s a subjective opinion...