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G-Web · 30 May 2014, 02:04 AM

Hi There,

I recently acquired a NOS P Serial Rolex Explorer II 16570, with all factory plastics intact. To the best of my knowledge, this watch has sat in a safe for the last 14 years.

The watch is now keeping good time (approx +5 secs per day), and for a lay person like me, it would certainly appear as though the watch has suffered no negative effects of sitting unused for so long.

But I just wanted to ask the tech experts on their thoughts?
Is there a likelihood the watch will require service soon? Should I be concerned, or should I simply take satisfaction in Rolex movements being so great that they can just get up and go after so many years?

Thanks for your input,
-GW

Lgear080 · 30 May 2014, 02:10 AM

Probably worthwhile to have a good tech re-oil and gasket the watch.

rmfnla · 30 May 2014, 04:11 AM

Rolex uses synthetic lubes and seals so I would be surprised if your safe queen has any issues.

That being said, if it was mine I'd have a pressure check done just to be sure; the last thing you want is for water to get inside...

subtona · 30 May 2014, 04:23 AM

congrats on a beautiful find.

a service to replace gaskets and oils would probably be smart but then again, with the service experience' that i have had… i would rather wear it until it stops.

pressure test is a must & while you wait.

i had tourneau test a watch while i waited & they gave me the printout to go with it.

ps… wrist shot:)

G-Web · 30 May 2014, 05:08 AM

Thanks Gents,

I'll get it pressure tested right away.
In the meantime, did someone say "wristshot?"
With pleasure...
-GW

Yesterday...

...and today.

b06tmm · 30 May 2014, 05:12 AM

I hope you didn't pay full retail for that old watch. <smile>

Frosty · 30 May 2014, 05:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by b06tmm

I hope you didn't pay full retail for that old watch. <smile>

Good one!

subtona · 30 May 2014, 06:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by G-Web

... did someone say "wristshot?"
With pleasure...
-GW

Yesterday...

looking great

rmfnla · 30 May 2014, 06:45 AM

That really is a classic... great find!

roadie1 · 30 May 2014, 09:07 AM

Good lookin' piece!

Presa canary · 30 May 2014, 09:12 AM

Loneliness, depression, possibly even a broken heart.... Besides that. Wear the hell out of it. Congrats!

G-Web · 30 May 2014, 10:43 AM

Thanks gang, I appreciate your input (and your compliments).
I haven't been this stoked about a watch in quite some time.

Cheers,
-GW

francis · 30 May 2014, 01:22 PM

Wow. I just got a p series white explorer that also sat In a safe for most of its life...
It runs great and looks great...
I was also contemplating having it serviced but opted for a pressure test instead which it passed..
Is now my daily..
Congrats on your watch

tecknik10 · 30 May 2014, 01:54 PM

Excellent find, congratulations.

crowncollection · 30 May 2014, 01:55 PM

pressure test and new seals imho

G-Web · 31 May 2014, 11:35 AM

UPDATE: The watch failed a pressure test.

The watchmaker told me that the holographic sticker on the caseback could be the culprit.
He said sometimes they can mess with the testing equipment.

When I told him the watch had been sitting for 14 years, he said I should go ahead and have the seals and gaskets replaced.

My question is: If I send it to RSC to have seals and gaskets replaced, will they do only that? Or are they likely to insist upon a complete service?

As always, I appreciate your input.
Thanks,
-GW

subtona · 31 May 2014, 11:42 AM

1 thing they will do is most likely peel off your sticker.

i find it difficult to believe the sticker would effect the pressure test.

G-Web · 31 May 2014, 11:56 AM

I was a little disappointed in my watch having failed, and I wasn't paying complete attention when he explained why. I think he said something about A) the sticker preventing the watch from laying completely flat, and B) the potential porosity of the sticker having a negative effect.

I offered to remove it and have him test it again but he said he'd have to hang on to it for another half hour or so. Having run out of time (lunch break) I declined but said I'll bring it back next week with the sticker off to try again.

Any thoughts on whether Rolex will just do seals?
Thanks,
-GW

Vanessa CW21 · 31 May 2014, 02:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by G-Web

UPDATE: The watch failed a pressure test.

The watchmaker told me that the holographic sticker on the caseback could be the culprit.
He said sometimes they can mess with the testing equipment.

When I told him the watch had been sitting for 14 years, he said I should go ahead and have the seals and gaskets replaced.

My question is: If I send it to RSC to have seals and gaskets replaced, will they do only that? Or are they likely to insist upon a complete service?

As always, I appreciate your input.
Thanks,
-GW

No, RSC will not only replace gaskets. Any watchmaker with Rolex parts can do that though, but there wouldn't be any warranty obviously.
I have never heard of a case back sticker interfering with the pressure test!!! Maybe he has some "special" equipment...

rmfnla · 1 June 2014, 01:28 AM

I am not surprised it failed the pressure test but the sticker thing has me totally confused...

Baco Noir · 1 June 2014, 02:47 AM

Did you buy it NOS from an AD? If so, it should have warranty and thus RSC should service it for free!

G-Web · 1 June 2014, 03:02 AM

Thanks again for the input everyone.

To some earlier points, the watchmaker said he thought the sticker COULD have somehow effected the pressure test, but he wasn't certain. Based on the reactions here, it sounds like this is a bunk theory, and what we're really looking at are seals that have deteriorated or dried over the years enough to compromise watertightness.

That said, in the interest of empiricism, I'll remove the sticker and take it back for another test next week. Stay tuned for the results, and if anyone can point me in the direction of an Atlanta-area watchmaker who can replace my seals and gaskets, I'd certainly appreciate it (the watchmaker I've taken it to for testing is at Tourneau, and they refuse to work on Rolex in house. They only send to RSC).

Thanks again all,
-GW

PS: To Baco Noir's question, no, I did not buy this NOS from an AD, rather a private seller.

rmfnla · 1 June 2014, 12:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Baco Noir

Did you buy it NOS from an AD? If so, it should have warranty and thus RSC should service it for free!

After 14 years..?

Quote:

Originally Posted by G-Web

Thanks again for the input everyone.

To some earlier points, the watchmaker said he thought the sticker COULD have somehow effected the pressure test, but he wasn't certain. Based on the reactions here, it sounds like this is a bunk theory, and what we're really looking at are seals that have deteriorated or dried over the years enough to compromise watertightness.

That said, in the interest of empiricism, I'll remove the sticker and take it back for another test next week. Stay tuned for the results, and if anyone can point me in the direction of an Atlanta-area watchmaker who can replace my seals and gaskets, I'd certainly appreciate it (the watchmaker I've taken it to for testing is at Tourneau, and they refuse to work on Rolex in house. They only send to RSC).

Thanks again all,
-GW

PS: To Baco Noir's question, no, I did not buy this NOS from an AD, rather a private seller.

Good plan; you don't want to back to that quack...

BNA/LION · 1 June 2014, 12:23 PM

Nice find! Get a second opinion from another CW21 Certified Watchmaker. Congratz!

Baco Noir · 1 June 2014, 01:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rmfnla

After 14 years..?

Yes...if an AD had sold it as a safe queen, I'd expect it to come with a warranty since it was new.

strafer_kid · 1 June 2014, 10:14 PM

Very nice watch - seems strange though that a sticker could impact upon case integrity given all Rolex's claims and also what these watches are designed to do? If you got it at a good price, why not run it through a service anyway for peace of wind - that way, you know all is well! Good luck!

Sublover2166 · 2 June 2014, 12:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by G-Web

UPDATE: The watch failed a pressure test.

The watchmaker told me that the holographic sticker on the caseback could be the culprit.
He said sometimes they can mess with the testing equipment.

When I told him the watch had been sitting for 14 years, he said I should go ahead and have the seals and gaskets replaced.

My question is: If I send it to RSC to have seals and gaskets replaced, will they do only that? Or are they likely to insist upon a complete service?

As always, I appreciate your input.
Thanks,
-GW

RSC will always want ALL your money and I'm sure they will want to do a complete service. Why don't you get a second opinion and call Rikki. He can let you know if he can replace all seals and inspect the movement and determine if it is fine to not service. He will not milk your wallet like RSC will. And he is in Florida, your watch would probably get to him in a day from Georgia by USPS. Give him a call, he will gladly answer all your questions and he is a great guy and awesome watchmaker. www. Timecare Inc. .com

GTS Dean · 2 June 2014, 02:19 AM

Applying the sticker can trap little pockets of air underneath. When submerged in the test chamber, the air gets squeezed out giving a false positive for leakage.

MATCH1969 · 2 June 2014, 07:01 AM

Lucky you, Congrats for your purchase

rmfnla · 3 June 2014, 04:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Baco Noir

Yes...if an AD had sold it as a safe queen, I'd expect it to come with a warranty since it was new.

True, it was NOS...

30 May 2014, 02:04 AM	#1
G-Web 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: May 2012 Real Name: Grant Location: NZ Watch: Moon Posts: 1,699	Any effects on a watch unused for 14 years? Hi There, I recently acquired a NOS P Serial Rolex Explorer II 16570, with all factory plastics intact. To the best of my knowledge, this watch has sat in a safe for the last 14 years. The watch is now keeping good time (approx +5 secs per day), and for a lay person like me, it would certainly appear as though the watch has suffered no negative effects of sitting unused for so long. But I just wanted to ask the tech experts on their thoughts? Is there a likelihood the watch will require service soon? Should I be concerned, or should I simply take satisfaction in Rolex movements being so great that they can just get up and go after so many years? Thanks for your input, -GW

30 May 2014, 04:11 AM	#3
rmfnla "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Real Name: Richard Location: Los Angeles, CA Watch: TT DJ Posts: 4,456	Rolex uses synthetic lubes and seals so I would be surprised if your safe queen has any issues. That being said, if it was mine I'd have a pressure check done just to be sure; the last thing you want is for water to get inside... __________________ Today, I believe my jurisdiction ends here... Lug Hole Lover®

30 May 2014, 04:23 AM	#4
subtona "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Real Name: gus Location: East Coast Watch: APK & sometimes Y Posts: 25,997	congrats on a beautiful find. a service to replace gaskets and oils would probably be smart but then again, with the service experience' that i have had… i would rather wear it until it stops. pressure test is a must & while you wait. i had tourneau test a watch while i waited & they gave me the printout to go with it. ps… wrist shot:) __________________

30 May 2014, 06:45 AM	#9
rmfnla "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Real Name: Richard Location: Los Angeles, CA Watch: TT DJ Posts: 4,456	That really is a classic... great find! __________________ Today, I believe my jurisdiction ends here... Lug Hole Lover®

30 May 2014, 01:55 PM	#15
crowncollection "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Real Name: David Location: australia Posts: 20,157	pressure test and new seals imho __________________ watches many

30 May 2014, 02:10 AM	#2
Lgear080 Banned Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: NYC Posts: 3,506	Probably worthwhile to have a good tech re-oil and gasket the watch.

30 May 2014, 05:08 AM	#5
G-Web 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: May 2012 Real Name: Grant Location: NZ Watch: Moon Posts: 1,699	Thanks Gents, I'll get it pressure tested right away. In the meantime, did someone say "wristshot?" With pleasure... -GW Yesterday... ...and today.

30 May 2014, 05:12 AM	#6
b06tmm "TRF" Member Join Date: Jun 2011 Real Name: Tim Location: South Shore Posts: 834	I hope you didn't pay full retail for that old watch. <smile>

30 May 2014, 09:07 AM	#10
roadie1 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Southeast Watch: Divers, GMT Posts: 2,144	Good lookin' piece!

30 May 2014, 09:12 AM	#11
Presa canary "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2012 Real Name: Justin Location: Pa Watch: Explorer ii Posts: 3,151	Loneliness, depression, possibly even a broken heart.... Besides that. Wear the hell out of it. Congrats!

30 May 2014, 10:43 AM	#12
G-Web 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: May 2012 Real Name: Grant Location: NZ Watch: Moon Posts: 1,699	Thanks gang, I appreciate your input (and your compliments). I haven't been this stoked about a watch in quite some time. Cheers, -GW

30 May 2014, 01:22 PM	#13
francis "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2013 Location: a few places Watch: Datejust Posts: 796	Wow. I just got a p series white explorer that also sat In a safe for most of its life... It runs great and looks great... I was also contemplating having it serviced but opted for a pressure test instead which it passed.. Is now my daily.. Congrats on your watch

30 May 2014, 01:54 PM	#14
tecknik10 "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Location: HCM, Viet Nam Watch: 16600N, 1625 Posts: 61	Excellent find, congratulations.

31 May 2014, 11:35 AM	#16
G-Web 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: May 2012 Real Name: Grant Location: NZ Watch: Moon Posts: 1,699	UPDATE: The watch failed a pressure test. The watchmaker told me that the holographic sticker on the caseback could be the culprit. He said sometimes they can mess with the testing equipment. When I told him the watch had been sitting for 14 years, he said I should go ahead and have the seals and gaskets replaced. My question is: If I send it to RSC to have seals and gaskets replaced, will they do only that? Or are they likely to insist upon a complete service? As always, I appreciate your input. Thanks, -GW

31 May 2014, 11:42 AM	#17
subtona "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Real Name: gus Location: East Coast Watch: APK & sometimes Y Posts: 25,997	1 thing they will do is most likely peel off your sticker. i find it difficult to believe the sticker would effect the pressure test. __________________

31 May 2014, 11:56 AM	#18
G-Web 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: May 2012 Real Name: Grant Location: NZ Watch: Moon Posts: 1,699	I was a little disappointed in my watch having failed, and I wasn't paying complete attention when he explained why. I think he said something about A) the sticker preventing the watch from laying completely flat, and B) the potential porosity of the sticker having a negative effect. I offered to remove it and have him test it again but he said he'd have to hang on to it for another half hour or so. Having run out of time (lunch break) I declined but said I'll bring it back next week with the sticker off to try again. Any thoughts on whether Rolex will just do seals? Thanks, -GW

1 June 2014, 01:28 AM	#20
rmfnla "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Real Name: Richard Location: Los Angeles, CA Watch: TT DJ Posts: 4,456	I am not surprised it failed the pressure test but the sticker thing has me totally confused... __________________ Today, I believe my jurisdiction ends here... Lug Hole Lover®

1 June 2014, 02:47 AM	#21
Baco Noir "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: Roger Location: Colorado Watch: this ya'll Posts: 4,814	Did you buy it NOS from an AD? If so, it should have warranty and thus RSC should service it for free! __________________ Current Collection: Rolex 116710BLNR & 216570 polar Explorer II; Omega Apollo 8 Speedmaster; Tudor BB Bronze Bucherer Blue Edition; Heuer Heritage Autavia; Nomos Club Sport Neomatik 42; Breitling Aerospace, Avenger Blackbird, & Superocean 44; Seiko Black Monster; Mickey Mouse Timex Electric; and dare I say it...an Apple Watch too

1 June 2014, 03:02 AM	#22
G-Web 2024 Pledge Member Join Date: May 2012 Real Name: Grant Location: NZ Watch: Moon Posts: 1,699	Thanks again for the input everyone. To some earlier points, the watchmaker said he thought the sticker COULD have somehow effected the pressure test, but he wasn't certain. Based on the reactions here, it sounds like this is a bunk theory, and what we're really looking at are seals that have deteriorated or dried over the years enough to compromise watertightness. That said, in the interest of empiricism, I'll remove the sticker and take it back for another test next week. Stay tuned for the results, and if anyone can point me in the direction of an Atlanta-area watchmaker who can replace my seals and gaskets, I'd certainly appreciate it (the watchmaker I've taken it to for testing is at Tourneau, and they refuse to work on Rolex in house. They only send to RSC). Thanks again all, -GW PS: To Baco Noir's question, no, I did not buy this NOS from an AD, rather a private seller.

1 June 2014, 12:23 PM	#24
BNA/LION 2024 ROLEX DATEJUST41 Pledge Member Join Date: May 2011 Real Name: Larry Location: San Diego, CA Watch: ROLEX Posts: 25,206	Nice find! Get a second opinion from another CW21 Certified Watchmaker. Congratz! __________________ ✦ 28238 President DD 18K/YG ✦ 16610LN SS Sub ✦ 16613 18K/SS Serti ✦ 16550 Exp II Non-Rail Cream Dial ✦ Daytona C 116500 ✦ 126710 BLRO GMT-Master II ✦ NEXT-->? ⛳ Hole In One! 10/3/19 DMCC 5th hole, par 3, 168 yards w/ 4-Iron.

1 June 2014, 10:14 PM	#26
strafer_kid "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Real Name: Kenny Location: northern ireland Watch: SDs, Subs & GMTs Posts: 5,127	Very nice watch - seems strange though that a sticker could impact upon case integrity given all Rolex's claims and also what these watches are designed to do? If you got it at a good price, why not run it through a service anyway for peace of wind - that way, you know all is well! Good luck!

2 June 2014, 02:19 AM	#28
GTS Dean "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: NB, TX Watch: 3570.50 Posts: 1,012	Applying the sticker can trap little pockets of air underneath. When submerged in the test chamber, the air gets squeezed out giving a false positive for leakage.

2 June 2014, 07:01 AM	#29
MATCH1969 "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2012 Location: PARIS Watch: Vintage Posts: 2,761	Lucky you, Congrats for your purchase

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