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Old 23 November 2020, 05:37 PM   #1
hinoky
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16700 - please help :

Hi everyone,

I've been looking into purchasing my first vintage Rolex for some time, and have recently come across this 16700 on Chrono 24 (sorry I'm unable to post a link but a screenshot of the page is attached).

Having done some research into buying vintage watches ("buy the seller not the watch" etc), I understand I shouldn't approach this watch in the way I would normally do with brand new watches. However, having read so many horror stories, I would really appreciate your insight and guidance, and help me decide whether this is a good first vintage Rolex.

I'm told by the seller that he is the original owner, and that no parts have been replaced. Nevertheless, because he is a private dealer, it is hard to verify his claims, and I am concerned about a few things: 1) the lumes appear to be patina-free - I would've expected a watch of 26 years age would have developed some patina? and 2) the case does not seem to be in a fantastic condition (see the lug at 8 o' clock) - but this is acceptable if it is indeed unpolished? The lugs seem very sharp on the back of the case.

Thank you and stay safe!
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Old 23 November 2020, 06:47 PM   #2
Lol-x
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To me:
The dial looks original, no problem with that.
There are some marks on the lugs and the watch looks to have some wear which is expected given its age. Edge of lug at 4 O'Clock looks worn or blemished.
The bezel insert may have been replaced.
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Old 24 November 2020, 12:45 AM   #3
swish77
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Need more and better photos. You'd never be able to fully determine if there's any tritium patina based on this bad photo in bright indoor light. Ask for a couple photos in natural light, and even a UV photo.

Case looks OK, and appears to have been polished at some point. (Not a big deal.)

Is it a full set? Any service history?
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Old 24 November 2020, 01:06 AM   #4
lee fowler
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You would need much better pics as already said.
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Old 24 November 2020, 01:17 AM   #5
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I don't see anything wrong with this watch for it's age.

I have one from around ~'95 with only a very hint of ivory to the lume.
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Old 24 November 2020, 01:28 AM   #6
henrylee
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Old 25 November 2020, 01:34 PM   #7
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Can you post more and better pix? Didn’t come thru at least for me.
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Old 25 November 2020, 07:56 PM   #8
Woody
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My advice to you would be to follow the advice of "buy the seller". You admit that your knowledge is limited and that you have heard of many horror stories of people not following the "buy the seller" advice, so I am not sure that buying a watch from a private seller on Chrono24 is the best option for you. I would strongly suggest that you find a reputable dealer and that you take the time to source a suitable watch from them. It may cost you more money (it almost certainly will) but you should then have a watch you are confident in and for which you don't have to make any excuses. I wish you all the best with your search.
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