When Unrestored/Vintage = A Lousy Looking Rolex

[BristolCavendish]

First and foremost. I fully comprehend the notion/practice that an older vintage-era Rolex should be kept as original as possible from the standpoint of collector appreciation and long-term value.

On the other hand, when it comes down to a cosmetically deteriorating watch that essentially looks like crap, where does one draw the line?

It's somewhat difficult (for me) to imagine anyone wanting to actually wear one of these examples unless the timepiece had some sort of special significance (i.e. a family heirloom, previously worn by a historical figure, first edition serial # etc.).

Is the best course of action to opt for period-correct 'service replacement' and keep the old parts in a zip-lock bag?

[SubKing]

Please send me your zip lock bag of “crap parts” I will take em.

[Redtele58]

Those are some battle-scarred veterans. I'd wear them with pride just like they are.

[sensui]

I must be brainwashed...some of the examples look exquisite....not so sure on the spider stuff, not my cup of tea.

[southtexas]

I believe all of those are called “tropical” ;)

[roh123]

Beautiful Explorer!

Not sure what the fuzz is about. Old watches are fragile. Much more fragile then watches from the 70’s and forward. The above examples differs quite a lot in quality and some of them are beautiul if not shown at their worst. The flaking lacquer is of course never pretty and water damaged dials is what it is. Damage.

The Explorer looks amazing and many people actually like the old domed crystals with micro cracks. It is mostly only visible from an angle and the BC with radium eaten lacquer probably also looks good if problems aren’t forced like they are here.

Vintage isn’t for everyone. Some like mint examples only and others like ’character’. It’s however important to note the difference between patina and damage imho. Damage is rarely beautiful on anything. Old watches are of course no exception.

Each to their own

[Vincent65]

You just don't get it.

[Robbyvm]

i think someone is missing the point of the vintage attraction.... ?
except for the spider dial in the series above i love all of them and some pieces are extremely rare and valuable.

I have besides vintage Rolexes some vintage furniture and guitars and every little scar on them breaths history

[roh123]

Originally Posted by Robbyvm

i think someone is missing the point of the vintage attraction.... ?
except for the spider dial in the series above i love all of them and some pieces are extremely rare and valuable.

I have besides vintage Rolexes some vintage furniture and guitars and every little scar on them breaths history

For what it is worth there’s a huge difference between a spidered gilt dial and a dial where the top lacquer is flaking. Normally the top layer stays put even if it cracks.