The Rolex Forums   The Rolex Watch

ROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEX


Go Back   Rolex Forums - Rolex Watch Forum > Rolex & Tudor Watch Topics > Vintage Rolex Discussion

Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
Old 7 February 2023, 03:13 AM   #31
some.idiot
"TRF" Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2023
Location: Nashville
Posts: 60
Quote:
Originally Posted by amh View Post
Nice OP, I'd love to be given a project watch like that.

What I would do:
- New dial
- New hands
- New crystal
- New bracelet
- Movement service/lube

Not sure I'd even polish. The insert would look out of place on a "like new" case.
Would you put an acrylic crystal back on or go sapphire?

I love the durability of sapphire but wonder if it would lose the warm glow and softness if I didn't go acrylic

the movement is rusted in a lot of spots, and several pieces are already found to be broken. the watchmaker is figuring out what all needs to be replaced at this point

he talked about polishing the case, but honestly I love it to show some wear
some.idiot is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 03:16 AM   #32
Dan S
2024 Pledge Member
 
Dan S's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2018
Location: Colorado, USA
Posts: 5,841
Quote:
Originally Posted by some.idiot View Post
Would you put an acrylic crystal back on or go sapphire?
Go sapphire? You can't be serious. You would consider installing a crappy aftermarket sapphire crystal that isn't appropriate and won't seal properly?
__________________
@oldwatchdan on IG
Dan S is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 03:19 AM   #33
Dan S
2024 Pledge Member
 
Dan S's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2018
Location: Colorado, USA
Posts: 5,841
Quote:
Originally Posted by some.idiot View Post
Would you put an acrylic crystal back on or go sapphire?

I love the durability of sapphire but wonder if it would lose the warm glow and softness if I didn't go acrylic

the movement is rusted in a lot of spots, and several pieces are already found to be broken. the watchmaker is figuring out what all needs to be replaced at this point

he talked about polishing the case, but honestly I love it to show some wear
Don't install a crappy aftermarket sapphire crystal that isn't appropriate and won't seal properly.

Improper polishing can destroy the original lines of the case.

Maybe it would be better to step back and do some more research before moving forward with the project. You seem to have some very basic questions.
__________________
@oldwatchdan on IG
Dan S is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 03:52 AM   #34
ronricks
2024 Pledge Member
 
ronricks's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2013
Location: ATL
Watch: 126610LV
Posts: 2,628
Quote:
Originally Posted by some.idiot View Post
I'll have to see what I can find for an original dial. I quickly looked around last night and they were like $5,000 - 20,000. That's really not worth it to me just to get it back in serviceable condition and give it back to my FIL. I don't know.
There are several watch makers who can clean up that dial a bit for you. I would have the movement serviced and the plexi replaced and maybe the crown and that would be it.
ronricks is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 04:30 AM   #35
HERITAGE82
"TRF" Member
 
HERITAGE82's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: South Florida
Posts: 3,418
Quote:
Originally Posted by some.idiot View Post
Would you put an acrylic crystal back on or go sapphire?

I love the durability of sapphire but wonder if it would lose the warm glow and softness if I didn't go acrylic

the movement is rusted in a lot of spots, and several pieces are already found to be broken. the watchmaker is figuring out what all needs to be replaced at this point

he talked about polishing the case, but honestly I love it to show some wear
As others have said no sapphire. You cheapest route to getting a wearable watch it to get the movement working and clean the current dial up as much as possible. Next cheapest is putting lumínova dial & hands.
__________________
- Rolex Explorer - 214270
- Tudor Black Bay - 79230B
- Tudor Chronograph - 79270P
- Breitling Chronomat - 10th Anniv.
- Huguenin Freres Speedmaster Prototype
HERITAGE82 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 05:13 AM   #36
some.idiot
"TRF" Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2023
Location: Nashville
Posts: 60
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dan S View Post
Go sapphire? You can't be serious. You would consider installing a crappy aftermarket sapphire crystal that isn't appropriate and won't seal properly?
I didn't know. Thanks for enlightening me.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dan S View Post
Don't install a crappy aftermarket sapphire crystal that isn't appropriate and won't seal properly.

Improper polishing can destroy the original lines of the case.

Maybe it would be better to step back and do some more research before moving forward with the project. You seem to have some very basic questions.
Thank you for your concern about my plans. Aside from asking about a sapphire crystal, which other "very basic" questions am I asking that have you concerned?
some.idiot is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 05:26 AM   #37
ronricks
2024 Pledge Member
 
ronricks's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2013
Location: ATL
Watch: 126610LV
Posts: 2,628
Quote:
Originally Posted by some.idiot View Post
I didn't know. Thanks for enlightening me.

Thank you for your concern about my plans. Aside from asking about a sapphire crystal, which other "very basic" questions am I asking that have you concerned?
I'd call up a few of the suggested watchmakers people have given you and tell them what your goal(s) are for the watch. They will steer you in the right direction on what to do and what not to do.
ronricks is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 05:45 AM   #38
XavierM
"TRF" Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2019
Location: Paris, France
Posts: 351
Cool Project, love it !
I think I would clean everything as much as possible:
See what can be done with the dial and hands.
Clean the date disk
Disassemble the case (caseback, retaining ring and midcase), put everything inside a magic watchmaker bath.
Polish the crystal (change it if water resistance is not possible with it)
Change the crown if needed to achieve water resistance.
Service the movement (change any mechanical part that needs it to have a perfectly working movement).
At the end of the day, as long as you can use it to read the time, it’s a cool piece of family history you have here, not need to make it new again.

Keep us posted :)
__________________
Instagram: @vert_eternel
XavierM is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 06:48 AM   #39
TimeLord2
2024 Pledge Member
 
TimeLord2's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2019
Location: Valencia, CA
Watch: GMT Master 1675/3
Posts: 2,028
I know what I said earlier, regarding a period correct restoration. However, given the cost of a period correct dial and hands being too costly for you (at this time) I would go the Rolex route. Have them return the dial and hands and no polish to the case unless you want to that is. Rolex will replace all movement parts that need to be replaced and also replace the hands and dial with a Luminova set that will glow. IMO, hands and dial are not attractive and would need to be stabilized at the very least. Take off the bezel insert and place the bezel ring back on before it goes to Rolex as they will place a new insert too, and they are only about $60. By taking off the insert, you won't have to pay them to get it back or remove it. After all is said and done, put it on a NATO. Cost will still be around $2500-$3000 I think. Either way, send it to Rolex, have them authenticate it ($260 or so) get an estimate for Necessary repairs and Optional recommendations.

Alternatively, contact a vintage specialist for an estimate and sourcing original parts so you can truly weigh your next steps. Restoration or Resto-Mod with the potential of finding period correct parts over the coming months/years. Yes, there have been some stories about Rolex polishing when they have been told not to but I do think those are few and far between. In it's current condition, I would go Resto-mod but no on the Sapphire crystal.

Dan also makes a good point. "Maybe it would be better to step back and do some more research before moving forward with the project. You seem to have some very basic questions." In the end it is your watch and you will make the final decision. Just keep the original parts (hands, dial, insert).

Good Luck!
TimeLord2 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 06:50 AM   #40
hutch300
2024 Pledge Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2016
Real Name: Jeff
Location: PNW
Posts: 1,278
Quote:
Originally Posted by TimeLord2 View Post
I know what I said earlier, regarding a period correct restoration. However, given the cost of a period correct dial and hands being too costly for you (at this time) I would go the Rolex route. Have them return the dial and hands and no polish to the case unless you want to that is. Rolex will replace all movement parts that need to be replaced and also replace the hands and dial with a Luminova set that will glow. Take off the insert before it goes to Rolex as they will place a new insert too, and they are only about $60. By taking off the insert, you won't have to pay them to get it back or remove it. After all is said and done, put it on a NATO. Cost will still be around $2500-$3000 I think. Either way, send it to Rolex, have them authenticate it ($260 or so) get an estimate for Necessary repairs and Optional recommendations.

Alternatively, contact a vintage specialist for an estimate and sourcing original parts so you can truly weigh your next steps. Restoration or Resto-Mod with the potential of finding period correct parts over the coming months/years. Yes, there have been some stories about Rolex polishing when they have been told not to but I do think those are few and far between. In it's current condition, I would go Resto-mod but no on the Sapphire crystal. Good Luck!

The insert could be sold and fund most of this. Probably the best route if you won't like the patina.
hutch300 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 06:50 AM   #41
Dan S
2024 Pledge Member
 
Dan S's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2018
Location: Colorado, USA
Posts: 5,841
Having 15XX movements serviced by Rolex seems to be hit or miss these days, but he can try.
__________________
@oldwatchdan on IG
Dan S is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 06:58 AM   #42
TimeLord2
2024 Pledge Member
 
TimeLord2's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2019
Location: Valencia, CA
Watch: GMT Master 1675/3
Posts: 2,028
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dan S View Post
Having 15XX movements serviced by Rolex seems to be hit or miss these days, but he can try.
That is a sad state of affairs.
TimeLord2 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 07:12 AM   #43
some.idiot
"TRF" Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2023
Location: Nashville
Posts: 60
Quote:
Originally Posted by TimeLord2 View Post
I know what I said earlier, regarding a period correct restoration. However, given the cost of a period correct dial and hands being too costly for you (at this time) I would go the Rolex route. Have them return the dial and hands and no polish to the case unless you want to that is. Rolex will replace all movement parts that need to be replaced and also replace the hands and dial with a Luminova set that will glow. IMO, hands and dial are not attractive and would need to be stabilized at the very least. Take off the bezel insert and place the bezel ring back on before it goes to Rolex as they will place a new insert too, and they are only about $60. By taking off the insert, you won't have to pay them to get it back or remove it. After all is said and done, put it on a NATO. Cost will still be around $2500-$3000 I think. Either way, send it to Rolex, have them authenticate it ($260 or so) get an estimate for Necessary repairs and Optional recommendations.

Alternatively, contact a vintage specialist for an estimate and sourcing original parts so you can truly weigh your next steps. Restoration or Resto-Mod with the potential of finding period correct parts over the coming months/years. Yes, there have been some stories about Rolex polishing when they have been told not to but I do think those are few and far between. In it's current condition, I would go Resto-mod but no on the Sapphire crystal.

Dan also makes a good point. "Maybe it would be better to step back and do some more research before moving forward with the project. You seem to have some very basic questions." In the end it is your watch and you will make the final decision. Just keep the original parts (hands, dial, insert).

Good Luck!
I appreciate you
some.idiot is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 08:50 AM   #44
harry in montreal
"TRF" Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: Montreal
Watch: The Habs pick 1st!
Posts: 3,589
I was on eBay and noticed some really interesting service dials for 1675s. You could consider this as it would make thé watch amazingly functional. I would just be careful as these are oft faked. The prices seem to be in the 1500 range. I’d get some feedback on here for authenticity bef buying. Good luck !
harry in montreal is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 10:23 AM   #45
TheVTCGuy
Banned
 
Join Date: Jul 2008
Real Name: Paul
Location: San Diego
Watch: 126619LB
Posts: 21,541
First of all, congratulations on a fine timepiece and what a tremendous project for your plans.

Second, and I know I am probably in the minority and will be burned and flamed for saying this. I understand there are lot of purists on here and I completely understand… BUT…. If it were me.

I would send it in to the RSC (or private GOOD independent restorer). Let the experts bring it back to life. It may not end up accurate to the particular date of manufacture, but IMHO, that will not detract from it being a fantastic piece of family history and fine timepiece.

Just MHO
TheVTCGuy is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 10:47 AM   #46
some.idiot
"TRF" Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2023
Location: Nashville
Posts: 60
Quote:
Originally Posted by TheVTCGuy View Post
First of all, congratulations on a fine timepiece and what a tremendous project for your plans.

Second, and I know I am probably in the minority and will be burned and flamed for saying this. I understand there are lot of purists on here and I completely understand… BUT…. If it were me.

I would send it in to the RSC (or private GOOD independent restorer). Let the experts bring it back to life. It may not end up accurate to the particular date of manufacture, but IMHO, that will not detract from it being a fantastic piece of family history and fine timepiece.

Just MHO
I tend to agree with you and I am already afraid of the hate I'm going to get going forward

Maybe I'll just have to run away when I'm done
some.idiot is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 11:49 AM   #47
rusty427
"TRF" Member
 
rusty427's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Australia
Posts: 204
Quote:
Originally Posted by some.idiot View Post
I tend to agree with you and I am already afraid of the hate I'm going to get going forward



Maybe I'll just have to run away when I'm done


I personally think it is a good option for you to get a reliable outcome with a new start. You don’t seem invested in it’s originality, which is okay.
If you can keep your parts, you can always revisit a vintage restoration at a later date.
Selling the insert is an option to help funds.
While it’s at Rolex perhaps splash out for a bracelet.
You will have a legitimate modern 1675 to enjoy for years to come.
rusty427 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 11:53 AM   #48
rusty427
"TRF" Member
 
rusty427's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Australia
Posts: 204
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dan S View Post
Having 15XX movements serviced by Rolex seems to be hit or miss these days, but he can try.


Hi Dan, are Rolex reluctant to service these movements?
rusty427 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 12:06 PM   #49
Dan S
2024 Pledge Member
 
Dan S's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2018
Location: Colorado, USA
Posts: 5,841
Quote:
Originally Posted by rusty427 View Post
Hi Dan, are Rolex reluctant to service these movements?
Some of this is hearsay, but it seems to depend on where you are in the world, and perhaps the specific movement. I just know that it's no longer routine for an RSC to service a 15xx-series movement. Sometimes yes, and sometimes no ... it depends. What does it depend on? No idea. If you want them to service your watch, give it a try, and maybe you will get lucky.

And as of this year, apparently Rolex is no longer supplying parts for those movements to the small number of independents who still have parts accounts in the US. So for vintage watches, the difference between watchmakers with or without a Rolex parts account is shrinking year by year.
__________________
@oldwatchdan on IG
Dan S is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 01:46 PM   #50
rusty427
"TRF" Member
 
rusty427's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Australia
Posts: 204
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dan S View Post
Some of this is hearsay, but it seems to depend on where you are in the world, and perhaps the specific movement. I just know that it's no longer routine for an RSC to service a 15xx-series movement. Sometimes yes, and sometimes no ... it depends. What does it depend on? No idea. If you want them to service your watch, give it a try, and maybe you will get lucky.

And as of this year, apparently Rolex is no longer supplying parts for those movements to the small number of independents who still have parts accounts in the US. So for vintage watches, the difference between watchmakers with or without a Rolex parts account is shrinking year by year.

Cheers
Australia is becoming almost impossible,
regarding parts availability for independents I think.
Even a RSC service is a challenge these days with limited service centres.
rusty427 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 7 February 2023, 01:51 PM   #51
TimeLord2
2024 Pledge Member
 
TimeLord2's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2019
Location: Valencia, CA
Watch: GMT Master 1675/3
Posts: 2,028
Seems many of those willing to send their 1675 to Rolex went with the Dallas RSC. They will probably send it off to Lititz, PA where their training facility is and apparently where they do vintage. They may or may not ask you to authenticate first, which they did want to do on mine. The cost of that would be folded into the service cost in the end should you choose to go with Rolex and their recommendations. Even when I brought my watch in (RSC, Beverly Hills as I was able to walk it in…), the guy behind the counter suggested I use an Independent. Rolex did provide a service estimate after about 5 weeks. That was 2 years ago. Things seem to have changed dramatically since then. Dan would know better than I as he is a true collector and knows more about any and all of these references than I ever will. Still, worth a shot if you have an RSC in your area. If not, Contact RSC Dallas directly and wrap it up per their instructions and send it off. BTW, tell them exactly what you want done, and don't want done in writing.
TimeLord2 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 8 February 2023, 05:23 AM   #52
kegan
"TRF" Member
 
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: Anchorage Alaska
Posts: 600
Quote:
Originally Posted by hutch300 View Post
The insert could be sold and fund most of this. Probably the best route if you won't like the patina.
Whatever you do don’t let Rolex anywhere near that insert that thing is worth thousands and they will happily throw it in the garbage for you
kegan is online now   Reply With Quote
Old 8 February 2023, 06:05 AM   #53
winst
"TRF" Member
 
winst's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2019
Location: UK
Posts: 6,466
Quote:
Originally Posted by TimeLord2 View Post
I know what I said earlier, regarding a period correct restoration. However, given the cost of a period correct dial and hands being too costly for you (at this time) I would go the Rolex route. Have them return the dial and hands and no polish to the case unless you want to that is. Rolex will replace all movement parts that need to be replaced and also replace the hands and dial with a Luminova set that will glow. IMO, hands and dial are not attractive and would need to be stabilized at the very least. Take off the bezel insert and place the bezel ring back on before it goes to Rolex as they will place a new insert too, and they are only about $60. By taking off the insert, you won't have to pay them to get it back or remove it. After all is said and done, put it on a NATO. Cost will still be around $2500-$3000 I think. Either way, send it to Rolex, have them authenticate it ($260 or so) get an estimate for Necessary repairs and Optional recommendations.

Alternatively, contact a vintage specialist for an estimate and sourcing original parts so you can truly weigh your next steps. Restoration or Resto-Mod with the potential of finding period correct parts over the coming months/years. Yes, there have been some stories about Rolex polishing when they have been told not to but I do think those are few and far between. In it's current condition, I would go Resto-mod but no on the Sapphire crystal.

Dan also makes a good point. "Maybe it would be better to step back and do some more research before moving forward with the project. You seem to have some very basic questions." In the end it is your watch and you will make the final decision. Just keep the original parts (hands, dial, insert).

Good Luck!
Sound advice if you are considering this route and as another poster said, if you weren’t bothered about keeping the original insert, put it towards the cost of the Rolex service.
winst is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 8 February 2023, 07:08 AM   #54
nr1416
"TRF" Member
 
nr1416's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2011
Location: NA
Posts: 741
So cool, can't wait to see how this turns out.
nr1416 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 8 February 2023, 07:25 AM   #55
MrBlobby
"TRF" Member
 
Join Date: Jul 2022
Location: UK
Posts: 264
I’m a big fan of the insert. It’s part of that watch’s history. Your father in law was working on it a long time to create that unique look so you’re in danger of losing his hard work.

To some extent if you are swapping lots of bits of this watch then what are you actually saving? That feels particularly true to me when the bezel looks so good.

I also think the super fat font gmt bezels are much less common (someone correct me). So it’s a less common bezel with a very nice aged effect. That’s something I don’t think you can ever get back.

Bezel info https://gmtmaster1675.com/the-bezel/
MrBlobby is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 8 February 2023, 08:52 AM   #56
some.idiot
"TRF" Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2023
Location: Nashville
Posts: 60
Quote:
Originally Posted by MrBlobby View Post
I’m a big fan of the insert. It’s part of that watch’s history. Your father in law was working on it a long time to create that unique look so you’re in danger of losing his hard work.

To some extent if you are swapping lots of bits of this watch then what are you actually saving? That feels particularly true to me when the bezel looks so good.

I also think the super fat font gmt bezels are much less common (someone correct me). So it’s a less common bezel with a very nice aged effect. That’s something I don’t think you can ever get back.

Bezel info https://gmtmaster1675.com/the-bezel/
Cool info on the inserts! Thanks for sharing.
some.idiot is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 8 February 2023, 11:23 AM   #57
montblanc97
"TRF" Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2022
Real Name: Christopher
Location: Cleveland
Watch: Rolex 1675 "Gilt"
Posts: 5
What a stunning fat font insert
montblanc97 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 8 February 2023, 11:45 AM   #58
Rebel
"TRF" Member
 
Rebel's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2008
Real Name: Dr Mark R Nail
Location: New Albany
Watch: Tudor Sub 75090
Posts: 8,045
Best wishes on your project.
__________________
-------------------------------
Member of the Nylon Nation
Rebel is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 8 February 2023, 05:38 PM   #59
MrBlobby
"TRF" Member
 
Join Date: Jul 2022
Location: UK
Posts: 264
Here is an idea of where you might be headed:

https://tropicalwatch.com/watches/zqfv
MrBlobby is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 8 February 2023, 06:54 PM   #60
Andad
2024 Pledge Member
 
Andad's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2006
Real Name: Eddie
Location: Australia
Watch: A few.
Posts: 36,692
Quote:
Originally Posted by rusty427 View Post
Cheers
Australia is becoming almost impossible,
regarding parts availability for independents I think.
Even a RSC service is a challenge these days with limited service centres.
There is only one in Oz.
__________________
E

Andad is offline   Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
 
Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off

Forum Jump

Takuya Watches

Bobs Watches

Asset Appeal

My Watch LLC

OCWatches

DavidSW Watches

Coronet


*Banners Of The Month*
This space is provided to horological resources.





Copyright ©2004-2024, The Rolex Forums. All Rights Reserved.

ROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEX

Rolex is a registered trademark of ROLEX USA. The Rolex Forums is not affiliated with ROLEX USA in any way.