Generic Spares

[BawlaDK]

I cant help but be a little worried about what the future holds for owners of vintage Rolex like myself. I don’t own a LOT of vintage watches – Actually I only have one, a 1972 GMT-Master 1675 which I love to bits….. But still I find myself considering to sell, simply because I am scared that I may not be able to have it serviced by Rolex in the future, because parts becoming unavailable – But maybe Im just paranoid. But it got me to thinking about what I would be willing to accept in terms of aftermarket spareparts if original Rolex parts for the 1575 caliber DID at some point become unavailable… For me I wouldn’t mind if a tiny screw or maybe a gearwhell or other very tiny unbranded Rolex parts were replaced by a generic part – If it ment that the watch would be running again.. Rolex calibers are not prone to breaking so I assume that the parts that often require replacement at service are gaskets and other parts with "short" lifespan

But where do others draw the line?

[jdmi32]

I think it's safe for you to hang onto your GMT. There are many independent watchmakers who can service that watch, and parts for the 15XX movements are plentiful and will be for many years to come.

Where I'd worry is if you need a period correct insert. Prices for these are just nuts.

[exador]

Buy a spare movement while they're still cheap...oh wait...

[Ghould]

I don't think sourcing old Rolex parts will be something to worry about in our lifetimes...

[77T]

Should it ever come to that terrible state of affairs, buying a 16750 would be a logical step before cobbling aftermarket parts into the movement.

[Tools]

There are plenty of good aftermarket parts producers, and those parts are used in watches throughout the world.

The idea that only Rolex can produce proper parts isn't a logical conclusion.

[BawlaDK]

Originally Posted by Tools

There are plenty of good aftermarket parts producers, and those parts are used in watches throughout the world.

The idea that only Rolex can produce proper parts isn't a logical conclusion.

So you wouldnt mind if gaskets etc werent original either?

[Ghould]

Originally Posted by BawlaDK

So you wouldnt mind if gaskets etc werent original either?

Even if gaskets were still available, I still wouldn't mind them not being "original", they're literally pieces of plastic/rubber

[Tools]

Originally Posted by BawlaDK

So you wouldnt mind if gaskets etc werent original either?

I'm sure that you really meant "authentic Rolex", as the ones already inside are the originals..

Rolex does not make magic parts that are better than well known and responsible aftermarket manufacturers. If a manufacturer did make parts that did not last at least as long as the OEM parts they wouldn't be in the watch parts business very long.

Exceptions are counterfeit parts that are made to deceive, not replace.

Generally we all want our watchmakers to use Rolex parts and have a parts account. However, when parts are no longer provided by the Manufacturer, known makers move in to provide the market with good quality like-parts.

To keep old seals or overly worn parts just because you can't get authentic Rolex parts any longer may be a disservice to the watch itself and make it un-wearable.

[cajunron]

Originally Posted by Tools

I'm sure that you really meant "authentic Rolex", as the ones already inside are the originals..

Rolex does not make magic parts that are better than well known and responsible aftermarket manufacturers. If a manufacturer did make parts that did not last at least as long as the OEM parts they wouldn't be in the watch parts business very long.

Exceptions are counterfeit parts that are made to deceive, not replace.

Generally we all want our watchmakers to use Rolex parts and have a parts account. However, when parts are no longer provided by the Manufacturer, known makers move in to provide the market with good quality like-parts.

To keep old seals or overly worn parts just because you can't get authentic Rolex parts any longer may be a disservice to the watch itself and make it un-wearable.

[michael067]

There is a facility in Pennsylvania that services vintage Rolexes the watchmaker at the Wynn Rolex Boutique told me about it. Don't have details though.

[Andad]

Enjoy wearing your GMT Morton.

It will still outlast most owners.

[BawlaDK]

Sounds like I should just shut up and enjoy it..... Guess Im just paranoid for no apparent reason