Rolex Service declined due to "Corroded & Mod 93160A SEL"

[Explorer2polar]

This has to be the most bizarre reason ever that I'm aware that Rolex UK have declined to service my 16600 from 2006 unless I pay £1145 for a new bracelet. Why because they say the bracelet is "Corroded & Modified" and deemed an Essential replacement. In the last few months I elected to have the original bracelet refurbed by a specialist to keep my watch as original as possible.

To rub salt in an open wound they say they will not return the old bracelet, if I agree and buy new !

The original bracelet has had a some new pins fitted by one of the UK's top Rolex bracelet restorers and not only works perfectly it looks amazing with little to zero stretch and in No way likely to fail or become disconnected from my wrist.

As far as corrosion is concerned I think this is BS and so does the Bracelet restorer I used.

Has any body been in a similar situation with Rolex UK service centre at Kent ?

I cannot even use an Independent UK Rolex Authorised Service centre as they cannot get the parts for the Sea Dweller service from Rolex UK as this is one of the few models that they are not allowed to service and purchase spare parts for. It also has to do with pressure testing it.

Any advice..........other than let Rolex charge me for the cost of a new bracelet !