Vintage Rolex Band Q.

[FLi GLi]

I'm a newbie to vintage watches and Rolexes.

I have been looking at vintage Rolexes watches recently. My question-

I have noticed a lot of vintage Rolex watches from the 50s-60s come with new bands. Is this normal? Does this reduce the value of the watch?

I don't mind buying a vintage watch with a new band, but I'm wondering if i would be better off buying a watch and sourcing a new band from Rolex?

My concern is that with the new band, I would not be getting the original Rolex clasp.

I apologize if this has been addressed previously. I have been lurking on this forum for a while trying to learn and haven't see this question before.

Cheers,

FLI

[pz93c]

As long as you are getting the buckle, I don't have a problem with a new band.

[FLi GLi]

Originally Posted by pz93c

As long as you are getting the buckle, I don't have a problem with a new band.

Brian,

Thanks for the input. Something I will ask a seller before purchasing a watch.

[Tools]

Vintage watches are a mixed bag... Most who continued to wear their watches after the band stretched out or broke, or those who routinely sent theirs in for service and maintenance, have had the bracelet replaced with the most current service replacements..

Bracelets have always been considered expendables..

For the true collector, the quest is for the best example of an original piece..... and they are hard to find; consequently, sellers can ask for big bucks for these relatively few original watches.... They are only original once..

If you are looking for vintage because of it's rich heritage, history, and looks; a vintage with up-to-date parts can be a good buy....

[SLS]

FWIW, I prefer to have all my vintage pieces on modern bracelet, I just feel more secure that way.
Scott

[FLi GLi]

Originally Posted by Tools

If you are looking for vintage because of it's rich heritage, history, and looks; a vintage with up-to-date parts can be a good buy....

Thanks for your input. I do appreciate it. I'm primarily looking for a vintage Rolex for several reasons, as listed below.

1. I like the styling and history of the older models
2. I can't afford newer, pre-owned Rolex watches
3. I already have an Omega Seamaster, so I'm not in the market for a Sub-style watch
4. I'm looking for something to wear for dress, which the older models with a nice leather strap seem to meet my likings
5. I have several new watches and am looking to, carefully, get into the vintage watch market. I'm not looking to buy investment watches. I'm looking for watches that I enjoy and are good examples of the brand from years gone by.

So I think your advice of a vintage watch with up to date parts is a good avenue for me to explore.

Originally Posted by SLS

FWIW, I prefer to have all my vintage pieces on modern bracelet, I just feel more secure that way.
Scott

Scott,

Good point. I didn't think of this. Thanks!

FLi

[mkolesa]

I don't think vintage bracelets were meant for the long haul and that's why older watches don't often have the original bracelets. And even if they did, as has already been mentioned, the bracelet may not be robust. Often, the solution is to switch over to a leather strap. But if you prefer the look of the bracelet there are people making vintage style replacement bracelets (to me the modern bracelets just don't look right on a vintage piece, but that's a personal preference). good luck!

[jdc]

Originally Posted by SLS

FWIW, I prefer to have all my vintage pieces on modern bracelet, I just feel more secure that way.
Scott

x2 my two vintage are on modern bracelets from Rolex UK

[FLi GLi]

Originally Posted by jdc

x2 my two vintage are on modern bracelets from Rolex UK

Please excuse my ignorance as I am still learning the vintage watch world...

A strap I'm assuming refers to a leather band. Whereas a bracelet refers to a band made of some metal, usually SS. Am I correct?

I'm looking at a vintage Rolex that would look best with a leather strap/band. Does Rolex make leather straps/bands (modern or "retro", doesn't matter to me) that can be purchased and mated with a vintage watch? I would prefer to keep all components of the watch Rolex brand.

Cheers,

FLi

[jdc]

Originally Posted by FLi GLi

Please excuse my ignorance as I am still learning the vintage watch world...

A strap I'm assuming refers to a leather band. Whereas a bracelet refers to a band made of some metal, usually SS. Am I correct?

I'm looking at a vintage Rolex that would look best with a leather strap/band. Does Rolex make leather straps/bands (modern or "retro", doesn't matter to me) that can be purchased and mated with a vintage watch? I would prefer to keep all components of the watch Rolex brand.

Cheers,

FLi

Bracelet would be SS.
Have a word with your local AD. If it is the same as the UK they will ring Rolex and give you the options and prices. The AD had to have my watch in front of them to give the model and serial number to Rolex.

[FLi GLi]

Originally Posted by jdc

Bracelet would be SS.
Have a word with your local AD. If it is the same as the UK they will ring Rolex and give you the options and prices. The AD had to have my watch in front of them to give the model and serial number to Rolex.

Wonderful idea.

Cheers mate!

FLi