Deteriorating Patek quality, need ideas to stop my brand new blue 5711 from rusting

[tom2517]

Well that's a terrible looking bracelet conditions wise for a SS.

Assuming it's real and assuming it hasn't exposed to any harmful substances, it's probably a bad batch of steel.

[enjoythemusic]

Patek Philippe 1579 chronograph circa 1954

Sooo miss the days of Patek true quality.

[dannyp]

Originally Posted by S``

Exactly, they had it in screws before, then took it out of the design....

And people actually believed because it's due to the thickness of the bracelet?

Laughable

Sent from my VTR-L29 using Tapatalk

Admittedly, I cannot tell from the pics I see online whether there seems to be any substantive redesign of the bracelet that would precipitate the change. The one ting I do notice is this:

On the older version, the screw holes appear to go almost to the edge of each link. Is it possible that it was proving difficult to construct with such tight margins, or there was concern that wear over time would potentially damage the links, given how thin the area around the tube was?

Or perhaps I'm just looking for a justification that my speculation about bracelet thickness was the reason since I suggested that prior to knowing it previously had screws .

Originally Posted by Russell996

Presumably as a used piece after being reconditioned? PP aren’t going to scrap a watch for a simple service issue and they will need the papers to sell it on.

I have no idea, to be honest, whether it was being sold as used or new. I would hope preowned, but I hadn't ever seen any preowned pieces in the dealer's case. Perhaps at one of its other locations, though.

I certainly wouldn't expect PP to scrap such a piece either, and always wondered how such things were handled.

[Mbbgysam]

Originally Posted by PJ S

FFwd to 2:25

Thanks for sharing!

[bonsai-man]

Originally Posted by ts3

I'd prefer the 330 all day and twice on Sunday but I believe to remember the OP wrote elsewhere on TRF that he prefers the new dial + old movement version for its rarity. OP pl correct if I am wrong...

The difference in color / shine is not necessarily related to how old the watch is. The exact color / shine of stainless steel depends on the polishing - in this case on how worn the polishing materials / abrasive were when the new bracelet was made compared to the existing case. If you get a new watch the case and bracelet have been polished "together" so to speak. But w the new bracelet the wear status of the polishing materials will naturally have been different. Often you will see this as a Patek Service Center rep explained to me...

You are indeed correct, I saw a few incomings with the new 330 in April but was delighted to get my allocation towards the end of April with the old 324. A friend of mine got the same at the beginning of April (different AD). I did consider myself lucky to miss the price rise, now I am not so sure.

I just checked the watch again and since I cleaned it the rust has not come back yet, but it’s only been a few days. I can confirm the marks are not food, drink or from storage. I am still self-conscious wearing the watch and when I’m not it’s in the case.

I do not want the watch replaced or the bracelet re-polished/finished so soon after getting it. I may consider a replacement bracelet (if offered) provided it doesn’t show as someone on here pointed out. The main worry is should a new 5711 start rusting so soon, and will it come back in the future. The AD has asked to see the watch but there is nothing to see now, so not sure what they can do.

[dannyp]

Originally Posted by bonsai-man

You are indeed correct, I saw a few incomings with the new 330 in April but was delighted to get my allocation towards the end of April with the old 324. A friend of mine got the same at the beginning of April (different AD). I did consider myself lucky to miss the price rise, now I am not so sure.

I just checked the watch again and since I cleaned it the rust has not come back yet, but it’s only been a few days. I can confirm the marks are not food, drink or from storage. I am still self-conscious wearing the watch and when I’m not it’s in the case.

I do not want the watch replaced or the bracelet re-polished/finished so soon after getting it. I may consider a replacement bracelet (if offered) provided it doesn’t show as someone on here pointed out. The main worry is should a new 5711 start rusting so soon, and will it come back in the future. The AD has asked to see the watch but there is nothing to see now, so not sure what they can do.

Did you see the post about how the bracelets are constructed? That was pretty informative in terms of possible explanations. It doesn't seem to be the bracelet itself that is rusting, rather perhaps the pin inside of it. Maybe it wasn't welded shut properly? Or there was moisture in the tube at the time? Or something else is leaking out? But if you take a look at the pics you posted in the OP the stain (whether rust or otherwise) appears to form a ring around where the tube was welded shut. If you look at the "healthy" link next to it, you can also see the vague outline of the welding.

[s.m.b.]

Originally Posted by bonsai-man

The main worry is should a new 5711 start rusting so soon, and will it come back in the future.

No, your new watch should not have rusted so soon... Once the rust reappears, ask for a replacement.

[Murcielagoboy2]

I'm at a loss to understand threads like these... "please help me etc"

Jeez - you've bought a new PP from an AD right? Take it back to them and get the part/watch repaired/replaced. Easy.

More generally, I'm fascinated by how precious people are about their 5711s. This isn't a dress watch - it's meant to be a daily beater. Mine is scuffed, scratched and worn in the pool, the sea, wherever. That's the point....

[dannyp]

Originally Posted by Murcielagoboy2

I'm at a loss to understand threads like these... "please help me etc"

Jeez - you've bought a new PP from an AD right? Take it back to them and get the part/watch repaired/replaced. Easy.

More generally, I'm fascinated by how precious people are about their 5711s. This isn't a dress watch - it's meant to be a daily beater. Mine is scuffed, scratched and worn in the pool, the sea, wherever. That's the point....

On the first point, agree entirely.

On the second, remember: For some veteran PP collectors, a 5711 is the most rugged, least expensive, watch in the rotation, while for others, newer to the brand, it's the absolute nicest watch they'll ever own.

[tom2517]

Originally Posted by bonsai-man

I do not want the watch replaced or the bracelet re-polished/finished so soon after getting it. I may consider a replacement bracelet (if offered) provided it doesn’t show as someone on here pointed out. The main worry is should a new 5711 start rusting so soon, and will it come back in the future. The AD has asked to see the watch but there is nothing to see now, so not sure what they can do.

Why cleaning it? I have to agree with Russell here and would just take it back to AD and at least demand a bracelet replacement, this is clearly not normal.

Don't think anyone should be needing to wipe 5711 with WD40 to prevent it from rusting.

[SearChart]

Originally Posted by Russell996

Changed to pins about 2011.

https://www.patek.com/en/company/sav...-and-bracelets

Funny, they essentially downgraded the bracelet... But upgraded the price

[Rwatcher]

Originally Posted by Murcielagoboy2

I'm at a loss to understand threads like these... "please help me etc"

Jeez - you've bought a new PP from an AD right? Take it back to them and get the part/watch repaired/replaced. Easy.

More generally, I'm fascinated by how precious people are about their 5711s. This isn't a dress watch - it's meant to be a daily beater. Mine is scuffed, scratched and worn in the pool, the sea, wherever. That's the point....

Facts,

Mine has even braved the jacuzzi after plenty of drink

Nice dint on the bezel to remind me of that fun.

[beshannon]

Really would like to hear what the selling dealer has to say

[brmeyers]

Wow, that is the first time I have heard that happening.
I had both a blue and white 5711. The white I kept the longest
and never even had the "thought" this could be an issue.
I am also very interested in what the dealer has to say about this.

[bonsai-man]

Originally Posted by Murcielagoboy2

I'm at a loss to understand threads like these... "please help me etc"

Jeez - you've bought a new PP from an AD right? Take it back to them and get the part/watch repaired/replaced. Easy.

More generally, I'm fascinated by how precious people are about their 5711s. This isn't a dress watch - it's meant to be a daily beater. Mine is scuffed, scratched and worn in the pool, the sea, wherever. That's the point....

I’m at a total loss why member’s like this reply to threads they don’t understand or wish to contribute to. Why don’t they sigh and move on to the next incoming thread?

I don’t recall asking the forum if I should return the watch or ask for a refund. As for precious, I’m surprised you never used the same old “it’s just a watch” line from the Rolex forum. To be clear I wear all my watches including my dress watches and they all will be just as scratched as yours eventually, I just don’t go out of my way to scuff and beat them up unnecessarily, especially when new.

This is not a “please help me etc” thread. I started the thread as I thought other members would genuinely be interested to see and discuss the current build quality of modern steel PP, and to exchange thoughts on rust prevention on steel watches in general.This forum used to be a place where members shared experiences, idea’s and had discussions. Oh, I miss the pre-2017 days before the SS shortage.

I would have liked to provide an update to the forum once I had a reply from Patek Philippe and the AD, but as other members feel the same it would be best if the mods close this thread instead.

[Tha Baron]

Originally Posted by SearChart

Funny, they essentially downgraded the bracelet... But upgraded the price

Corporations do corporate things I guess...

[Commonproject]

looks like you've been eating too much spaghettios while wearing the watch

[Passionata]

Originally Posted by bonsai-man

I’m at a total loss why member’s like this reply to threads they don’t understand or wish to contribute to. Why don’t they sigh and move on to the next incoming thread?



I don’t recall asking the forum if I should return the watch or ask for a refund. As for precious, I’m surprised you never used the same old “it’s just a watch” line from the Rolex forum. To be clear I wear all my watches including my dress watches and they all will be just as scratched as yours eventually, I just don’t go out of my way to scuff and beat them up unnecessarily, especially when new.



This is not a “please help me etc” thread. I started the thread as I thought other members would genuinely be interested to see and discuss the current build quality of modern steel PP, and to exchange thoughts on rust prevention on steel watches in general.This forum used to be a place where members shared experiences, idea’s and had discussions. Oh, I miss the pre-2017 days before the SS shortage.



I would have liked to provide an update to the forum once I had a reply from Patek Philippe and the AD, but as other members feel the same it would be best if the mods close this thread instead.

I think it d be a shame to close it before we hear the suggested resolution from PP,
I m very much interested personally and technically.

TY

[enjoythemusic]

Originally Posted by bonsai-man

I would have liked to provide an update to the forum once I had a reply from Patek Philippe and the AD, but as other members feel the same it would be best if the mods close this thread instead.

Why close this thread? It would be appropriate that you started with a problem and in the name of fair / balanced reporting we read about Patek's solution.

As for using pins versus proper screws, that's soooo un-Patek-like and proves it's time to go F.P Journe, ALS, etc guys.

[subtona]

What was it resting on or in while it was off your wrist? This doesn’t just happen.

[V25V]

Originally Posted by enjoythemusic

Why close this thread? It would be appropriate that you started with a problem and in the name of fair / balanced reporting we read about Patek's solution.

Agreed. I think just about everyone on here would like to see how Patek handles this. That just should not be happening to your watch.

[masterserg]

Originally Posted by subtona

What was it resting on or in while it was off your wrist? This doesn’t just happen.

I don't think is a representation of Patek's quality. It can happen ... I had rust on a stainless steel AP 44 ROO lug (or whatever the small pieces that connect case with strap are called). I sent it to clearwater and they said the part in question probably came from an out of spec batch of steel. Thankfully it wasn't the watch case itself.

I suppose in this case PP should replace the bracelet and the OP (and PP) should have documentation of the issue in case it comes back later on, especially on the watch head.

[bruinmd]

If this is legit rust, this is absolutely insane. I would be taking this back to my AD ASAP and would be pissed.

[bonsai-man]

Originally Posted by enjoythemusic

Why close this thread? It would be appropriate that you started with a problem and in the name of fair / balanced reporting we read about Patek's solution.

OK as I have contacted Patek directly its fair they have a chance to reply, also for balanced reporting on the forum lets keep this thread open for now.

I can also see some have an interest in the outcome, I don't epect a reply though after all my £23,000 purchase is probably not important to them. I will update the thread good or bad if or when I hear from them.

I also mentioned my 5167A which broke the wrong side of the 2 year warranty period, hopefully that may help to get the rust looked at. I'm reluctant to get it fixed as I read they just strip it down, clean it and put it back together so it will probably just stop winding again.

Sometime's I wish I just stuck with Rolex and Omega they have always been no trouble.

[Russell996]

Originally Posted by bonsai-man

OK as I have contacted Patek directly its fair they have a chance to reply, also for balanced reporting on the forum lets keep this thread open for now.

I can also see some have an interest in the outcome, I don't epect a reply though after all my £23,000 purchase is probably not important to them. I will update the thread good or bad if or when I hear from them.

I also mentioned my 5167A which broke the wrong side of the 2 year warranty period, hopefully that may help to get the rust looked at. I'm reluctant to get it fixed as I read they just strip it down, clean it and put it back together so it will probably just stop winding again.

Sometime's I wish I just stuck with Rolex and Omega they have always been no trouble.

Have gone via your AD? If so, why do you not expect a reply? Of course they will reply and by return.

When you say you don’t want to get a 5167A repaired, can you explain as I don’t understand.

Update:
I see you posted back in August, piece was 4 years old not 2 years. Why did you not get it fixed last year?

https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=621556

[subtona]

Originally Posted by bonsai-man

OK as I have contacted Patek directly its fair they have a chance to reply, also for balanced reporting on the forum lets keep this thread open for now.

I can also see some have an interest in the outcome, I don't epect a reply though after all my £23,000 purchase is probably not important to them. I will update the thread good or bad if or when I hear from them.

I also mentioned my 5167A which broke the wrong side of the 2 year warranty period, hopefully that may help to get the rust looked at. I'm reluctant to get it fixed as I read they just strip it down, clean it and put it back together so it will probably just stop winding again.

Sometime's I wish I just stuck with Rolex and Omega they have always been no trouble.

Not sure how you come to your conclusions.

In my experience,

Patek has resolved several issues I have brought to them better than expected.
I would give them the time they need to review (things can move slowly with Patek.)

Rolex on the other hand could not have a worse track record if they tried, RSC has fixed one issue and created another ireperable problem; has charged me for a repair they did NOT complete; has not stood by their product and for the most part has been careless and carefree.

[bonsai-man]

Originally Posted by Russell996

Have gone via your AD? If so, why do you not expect a reply? Of course they will reply and by return.

When you say you don’t want to get a 5167A repaired, can you explain as I don’t understand.

Update:
I see for the wrong side of 2 years we should read 4 years.

https://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=621556

Correctiion to Update:
Yes the warranty was for 2-years, it had very very light use for less than 3 years, then it was cafefully stored undisturbedand and broke soon after I started wearing it in around year 4. So it broke itself somtime between 3 and 4ish years in storage

Strange thing is I looked at it again on Saturday wound it and it seems to be running fine now. Before it would stop after about 10 mins with 40+ turns of the crown. its been running fine for 4 days and keeping good time on anf off the wrist, very strange and unexplained.

[Russell996]

Originally Posted by bonsai-man

Correctiion to Update:
Yes the warranty was for 2-years, it had very very light use for less than 3 years, then it was cafefully stored undisturbedand and broke soon after I started wearing it in around year 4. So it broke itself somtime between 3 and 4ish years in storage

Strange thing is I looked at it again on Saturday wound it and it seems to be running fine now. Before it would stop after about 10 mins with 40+ turns of the crown. its been running fine for 4 days and keeping good time on anf off the wrist, very strange and unexplained.

Sounds like it needs a service.

[bonsai-man]

Originally Posted by subtona

Not sure how you come to your conclusions.

In my experience,

Patek has resolved several issues I have brought to them better than expected.
I would give them the time they need to review (things can move slowly with Patek.)

Rolex on the other hand could not have a worse track record if they tried, RSC has fixed one issue and created another ireperable problem; has charged me for a repair they did NOT complete; has not stood by their product and for the most part has been careless and carefree.

My experience is different, I have never had a reply from Patek regarding several questions posed. My AD still has not sent my Omega warranty card even after 2 years of asking. When I looked for a new AD my current one somehow found out and threatened to stop my orders and remove me from ALL lists. No my experience has not been as good as yours, maybe I never spent enogh $.

[subtona]

Originally Posted by bonsai-man

My experience is different, I have never had a reply from Patek regarding several questions posed. My AD still has not sent my Omega warranty card even after 2 years of asking. When I looked for a new AD my current one somehow found out and threatened to stop my orders and remove me from ALL lists. No my experience has not been as good as yours, maybe I never spent enogh $.

Are you dealing with a Patek service center or an AD?


Perhaps it is a location variance.
In nyc the Patek service center consistently does the right thing.

Rolex consistently has failed.