Vintage Rolex Tudor Restoration Query

[Broddy]

Hi,
First time posting.
I have a Tudor sub that’s been in neglect for many years.
There is a fair amount of rust in the movement.
I have found a great working Tudor movement of the same caliber.
My query is, am I better to just have the original movement replaced with this second movement or should I have the watchmaker salvage whatever parts he can of the original movement. For example, any parts that are branded or have serial numbers etc.
Cheers!

[southtexas]

I’d think the question can only be answered by a competent watchmaker once he’s evaluated it. I’ve seen some clean looking movements have fatal problems, and I’ve seen impossibly dirty looking movements come squeaky clean.

[VintageVagabound]

They’re ETA movements. Unless it’s totally beyond repair nearly any competent watchmaker can service it and bring it back. My vote is to keep it original.

[linesiders]

It is is pretty messed up, you may need another movement. Best for a Watchmaker to tell you.

I'd see if Prem @ https://primetimecanada.com/ could check it out because he is not far. He knows Tudors and has a lot of time restoring Tudor subs.

In the US, Phillip Ridley would be one of many great choices.

[TuRo]

Watchmakers can do wonders truly ... Make do and mend if poss I'd suggest - esp as sub eta calibres now over £1000 - £250 ten years ago !

[Tools]

Originally Posted by Broddy

Hi,
. .
I have a Tudor sub that’s been in neglect for many years.
There is a fair amount of rust in the movement.
I have found a great working Tudor movement of the same caliber.
My query is, am I better to just have the original movement replaced with this second movement or should I have the watchmaker salvage whatever parts he can of the original movement. For example, any parts that are branded or have serial numbers etc.
Cheers!

Generally it is best to keep as much of the original movement as possible if you want to retain value and heritage.

Rust can be removed and mitigated, although parts that are thoroughly damaged should be replaced.

Yes, you should keep branded and serialized parts - it's the soul of your timepiece.