New'b question

[locutus49]

Excellent. You are very fortunate to have inherited a genuine Rolex and a stunning one at that. I would rock that baby every day of my life.

Originally Posted by etinetalmai

The gold band is the original band. The blue band is one he bought for it later on so it wouldn't be so "flashy". I personally love the gold band and don't mind a little "flash".

[JnmEaton]

One suggestion......... Soap and warm water...... a soft brush. One of the differences from "moderns" is that ours do not have solid links. If you want to help prevent "stretch" clean the band with soap and water every so often. I do every cpl weeks.

[z80]

That is one beautiful watch. Keep that forever

[cdmorenot]

Andres,

Fantastic inheritance. Think of the DD as a Porsche 911 - It is such a perfect design that even the most modern ones have the DNA of the older ones. The changes on the DD have been subtle and somewhat more on the technological side. Upgraded components, better clasp design, solid end links to name a few but yours is a wonderful example of what many of us (Dads) hope to leave our kids.

[etinetalmai]

Thanks everyone! I plan on keeping it forever. I find it kind of amazing that after so much time it's still in perfect shape. The watch probably sat in a safe for 30 years. When my dad came to the United States he didn't have a penny and then when he did start to make some money, he bought the watch in a way to say "Look, I made it." And then he tucked it away and only wore it on rare occasions and never gave it another thought. Now that he's getting older (in his 70's) he decided I should have it. To me the story behind the watch is more valuable than the watch itself, and that's mainly why I enjoy wearing it. Aside from that, it is such a beautiful piece that I feel it deserves a little attention. Honestly, I'm quite surprised in all the reactions I've gotten from all of you. I just don't know any different I guess. To me it's just my dads old watch. I'm humbled tho. Thank you all for the kind words. I feel like I've found a hidden treasure.

[rouxeny]

Great looking watch.

Enjoy it!

[OpusXIII]

Beautiful watch aside. Given it was your dad's, I'd NEVER let that one go. EVER!!!!! There are always other watches to be had. But watches like yours, coupled with the circumstances therein, are once in a lifetime deals. KEEP IT, WEAR IT, and think of the old man each and every 'time' you check out that beauty.

[Etschell]

great looking watch.

to answer your questions you have an 18038.

here is a brief history of the model. my understanding is the 118238 had a bracelet redesign to make it more sturdy along with SELs.

http://www.mkmotorsport.com/watches_...803history.htm

[mschafer]

Stunning piece, your dad had great taste. Sorry to hear he passed. Not contributing anything further, i suggest to insure it and see if you find any service record, maybe get it to Rolex for a checkup for seals and an oil change...

[etinetalmai]

Hello everyone! I was hoping you all would tell me what you thought of this 1978 DateJust that was also handed down to me by my dad. This one definitely needs a lot more work and love than the Day-Date did. Im assuming he wore this one much more regularly. What do you guys think I should have done to it without ruining its vintage appeal? Again, all input is greatly appreciated!

[actionkwj]

Id get a new plexy crystal and leave the rest alone That bracelet is pretty tired so personally Id wear it on a nice strap like this one on my vintage Omega

[cdmorenot]

I would probably send it out to one of our recommended and TRF trusted watchmakers. Rik D is in Florida. I'd get it serviced, possibly a new plexi and wear it on leather as the previous person suggested.

The Jubilee is a nightmare waiting to happen - There is a guy out of Hong Kong, Michael Young, who is able to service and re-tighten the jubilees but I don't have too many details.

[Ferdelious]

That DD is a cool example, love the blue dial! As for the DJ, I think that bracelet is past the point of no return. Keep it for sentimental value but have the movement serviced, plexi replaced and put it on a nice strap. Wear both in good health!

[Onikage]

I'd just throw the DJ on a dressy slim croc or gator strap (the one pictured above is too sporty) and happily add to the family wear. I wish my dad gave me a couple of old watches like these!

[Tbonewalk]

Originally Posted by etinetalmai

The gold band is the original band. The blue band is one he bought for it later on so it wouldn't be so "flashy". I personally love the gold band and don't mind a little "flash".

it looks great with the bracelet or the strap... I may need one myself...

[Camel]

I love the DD and DJ that you got from your Father. I'd send the jubilee bracelet of the DJ to Michael Young in Hong Kong.

[watchwatcher]

Originally Posted by etinetalmai

I feel like I've found a hidden treasure.

That't the way I would feel, too.

[AKmethod]

really is a classic watch. all the better the sentimental value it has.

Do make sure you have an accurate appraisal done so you can add it to your home owners or renters insurance. Something like that will require a rider on your policy to make sure it is covered properly

but to repeat what has aptly been stated already, it's priceless. (and my apologies if bringing up the insurance thing files under the "Thank you, Captain Obvious" category)... can't help it, I'm a dad, and I'm safe and boring these days :)

Wear it proud!!!!