Parts supply?

[dunajska]

I don't recall where I read it, but is it true that Rolex assures the availability of factory parts (dials, bracelets, etc.) for 50 years beyond a model's production?

[Tools]

Have not found anything lately, but they used to publish that they continued to produce parts for 30 years after that part is discontinued. This would not have anything to do with a particular mode, just the actual parts that make up if's function.

It has never been about dials. When they drop a dial they quickly disappear from the Day Date and Datejust line; it is likely that you can still get dials for most models that they have made in the past 50 years on those that are basic black or white.

A couple of years back they made an announcement that they no longer kept supplies of 15xx movement parts and some of those parts were gone. Many suppliers, though, still make aftermarket parts for most Rolex movements

[SearChart]

Originally Posted by Tools

Have not found anything lately, but they used to publish that they continued to produce parts for 30 years after that part is discontinued. This would not have anything to do with a particular mode, just the actual parts that make up if's function.

It has never been about dials. When they drop a dial they quickly disappear from the Day Date and Datejust line; it is likely that you can still get dials for most models that they have made in the past 50 years on those that are basic black or white.

A couple of years back they made an announcement that they no longer kept supplies of 15xx movement parts and some of those parts were gone. Many suppliers, though, still make aftermarket parts for most Rolex movements

15×× parts are still being produced and supplied to RSC and AD watchmakers, in Europe. Don't know about the US though.

[Fredrik]

Originally Posted by SearChart

15×× parts are still being produced and supplied to RSC and AD watchmakers, in Europe. Don't know about the US though.

Yes, I have noticed that too. No problem here in Sweden.

My guess is that Rolex USA, which is a separate entity, just has decided not to import parts for the 1500-series movements anymore.

[77T]

Originally Posted by dunajska

I don't recall where I read it, but is it true that Rolex assures the availability of factory parts (dials, bracelets, etc.) for 50 years beyond a model's production?

No, Rolex doesn’t assure 50 years of parts support after a model is removed from production.

Profitable demand insures continued production for decades afterward. If the installed base continues to use RSC and/or watchmakers with parr’s accounts, then demand for those parts in enough to make continued availability profitable.

It’s the best way I know. So - ergo - Bas’ comment about 15xx parts availability in EU.


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[77T]

Originally Posted by Fredrik

Yes, I have noticed that too. No problem here in Sweden.



My guess is that Rolex USA, which is a separate entity, just has decided not to import parts for the 1500-series movements anymore.

If RUSA’s RSC’s don’t get enough demand, then no need for non-performing inventory.

If I was an owner in USA and was told nothing available to repair my vintage model with a 15xx caliber, then I’d be shipping to Geneva or seeking a good US watchmaker who hordes NOS 15xx parts.


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[SearChart]

There's just so many of them still around ticking perfectly, stopping parts supply would mean the end of a lot of them. Because once they're doing that the only way is the restoration department in Geneva and you can spend a good upwards of 10k CHF for a 'restoration'.

We sometimes send bubblebacks there and I've seen estimates of over 20k CHF, for a watch in pretty decent condition. I don't see a lot of vintage DateJust owners spending that on something that isn't worth it (except for emotional value).

And besides, it means they restore it to factory spec, so you won't be having any vintage looks...

[dunajska]

What about bracelets? I have an "A" series Yachtmaster (16622) and I'm curious if still possible to purchase a new 78760 bracelet. Cost?