Frankenwatch

[motoikkyu]

If you do a fully correct build: all vintage genuine period-correct parts, any new parts genuine replacements, you still have, strictly speaking, a "frankenwatch." However, when all the parts are right for the serial, you really have a genuine Rolex that is just not like it came from the factory. Serviceability and utility and beauty are not affected, only re-sale value. This watch should be disclosed as "all-genuine" as opposed to "all original." And many collectors and wearers will not care that it is not as it left the factory. I've seen many an 1803 wearing a smooth 1802 bezel: someone just liked it better that way and the difference in inherent value isn't huge.

[themaninblack]

In order for a watch to be a "Frankenwatch" once the movement is wound and set in motion it has to turn on it's maker and try to destroy him!

[J!m]

Originally Posted by John in MA

Here is my take which is an expansion on larry's IMO.

Frankenwatch: A watch created using parts from different watches to make one watch. Term only used when a seller is attempting to sell the item whether as original, or as something it isn't.

Project Watch: A watch created using parts from different watches to m ake one watch. Used when a seller is up front on what the watch is and prices accordingly.

Modded/Custom watch: A watch that uses genuine Rolex parts to modify an existing model into something that doesn't exist. Clear indication is given if the seller ever attempts to sell. If no clear indication is given, the watch falls into the Frankenwatch category.

All Original: A watch that has all the original parts and pieces.

NOS: A watch that was NEVER used. Not something that was worn and stuck in a drawer, but something that was NEVER used. An attempt to sell something as NOS that isn't is just a bastard who deserves to be hung and dried. In that case it falls into the All Original category.

Restored: A vintage watch that has visible parts such as dial/bezel/hands/etc. replaced during service with modern replacement parts.

Vintage: An All original that might have a new bezel insert, or dial, or hands etc. which keeps it from being able to be classified as All Original.

Period Correct: A vintage watch that has had parts such as a dial/hands/movement etc. replaced with other parts that are period correct. Full disclosure needed that it is a Period correct but not original. Otherwise, it falls into the Vintage category.

That's my take on the whole thing.

I agree. Some may argue on the semantics but this illustrates the point.

[Mick P]

Originally Posted by Vincent65

You could get another bezel, and keep the original. Nothing lost. Just a bit of money spent. Then you have best of both.

Hi Vincent

Yes that is an option. Out of curiosity, would you rather buy a totally original watch that still has worn bezels etc or a watch that has been refurbished with Rolex parts.

On one side you have a worn watch with history and on the other a newer and smarter looking watch.

Regards

Mick