Can you still call it a Rolex when...

[kip595]

Maybe this is a noob question, but I've been into vintage for about a year, and vintage Rolex for less than that.

I was looking for a nice, presentable early-ish Explorer when I came across a piece described thusly; "This watch has a ETA Tudor movement, Rolex Explorer. This watch has been rebuilt with an authentic Rolex 36mm Datejust 16014 case and a domed tropic crystal.
The dial and hands has been professionally restored and it’s stunning
The crown is an authentic Rolex crown.
Watch comes with Handmade genuine leather and stainless steel non Rolex bands.
The watch has been custom fitted with a Swiss made 25 jewel ETA 2824-2 by Tudor. The watch has a beautiful sweeping movement, just like the original Explorer I. Watch comes with Authentic Rolex box, no papers."

Now to me this describes what some refer to as a Frankenwatch, just sort of a high-end version of one, not a 'true' Rolex, or Tudor for that matter.

What say ye experts? Should I (or anyone) consider this at all a legitimate Rolex/Tudor lineage watch? Or am I correct in that this only has the value someone is willing to pay for it, and approximately zilch as a collector piece? (My money is on the latter.)

Wasn't sure if links for listings like this should be posted, but can provide a link to the ad on the 'bay.

Thanks for any input!

[schoolboy]

I wouldn’t call that a Rolex anymore

Maybe a watch that has Rolex parts in it

But that’s about it


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[Mick006]

Nope.

[Vinnee]

That isn't a Rolex anymore. It's just a watch with some Rolex in it.

[2nastie]

I would run the other direction haha. Would be commonly known as franken watch.

[Paul7]

I hope they're selling it cheap.

[watchmavan]

Agreed with others that's it's not a Rolex. It's a watch that has some Rolex parts. I also don't believe the statements concerning Tudor. Tudor, as a sister brand would no more so this work than Rolex would. There is no ETA Tudor calibre either. It is just an ETA.


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[Singslinger]

Very strange to use a Datejust's case and ETA movement and to call it an Explorer.

[Chewbacca]

Sounds like a tasteful Frankenbuild. If you like it buy it.

[kip595]

It's a decent-looking little build, but definitely what I would normally consider a franken-watch. Too expensive for the sum of its (literal) parts in this case; was just curious as to everyone's opinions.

[Chewbacca]

Buy it. Curious to see it.

[Setarip]

Originally Posted by 2nastie

I would run the other direction haha. Would be commonly known as franken watch.

+1

Better off saving up and buying a complete reference. This would be throwing good money away IMO.


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[Chewbacca]

Every Rolex prototype is a frankenwatch before it’s sold as a Rolex with a reference #.

Just saying.

[GGGMT]

Hilarious


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[77T]

I’m going to guess the rotor on the donor movement is engraved “Tudor”. And that the DJ’s original ticker was beyond repair.

Also, I’d guess the dial was an original Rolex plate, but only refinished.

The case (as in the body) stays a DJ, and perhaps the bracelet came from that 16014, too.

If so, would this be like you getting a heart transplant and a facelift?

Would we call you Frankenstein?

Have we no sympathy for a watch that wishes to live on a few more years????

All just an alternative view...

I do note that the seller didn’t bother to refinish the dial as a Tudor - oh, the bigotry against Tudor continues...

Hey OP - where are the pictures?
Remember, pics or it didn’t happen.


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[Humble michael]

Who cares ??

[beshannon]

Originally Posted by james272

Who cares ??

People who appreciate watches and understand their heritage

[Knappo 1307]

Originally Posted by james272

Who cares ??

But he paid with paypal, and used Amex. You have to love that?

[HERITAGE82]

If 36mm wasn't too small for my wrist I would strongly consider purchasing this watch. It appears to be well put together and the seller is forthcoming regarding its origin. Sure its not high value collector item, but its a great looking affordable watch.

My

[Tools]

Originally Posted by kip595

. . .
What say ye experts? Should I (or anyone) consider this at all a legitimate Rolex/Tudor lineage watch? Or am I correct in that this only has the value someone is willing to pay for it, and approximately zilch as a collector piece? (My money is on the latter.)

. . .

No, it would not be a legitimate Rolex.

It is also likely that the ETA movement is generic, not a Tudor modified ETA used in older Tudor models.

Even if it was a Tudor movement, it's still wrong.

[Pim]

So the question is: Is an ETA a Rolex?

no

[crowncollection]

No longer a Rolex imho


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[freefly]

Originally Posted by Tools

No, it would not be a legitimate Rolex.

It is also likely that the ETA movement is generic, not a Tudor modified ETA used in older Tudor models.

Even if it was a Tudor movement, it's still wrong.

This.

Could all be junk, to include a fake Tudor-marked ETA clone movement (and fake case). Hard pass.