Pressure Test

[finance21]

I am enjoying my 5513 which I have had for just over two days now. Of course the watch won’t see any abuse but, I do want to wear the watch fairly regularly (I work behind a desk) without and worries. I am thinking about taking the watch in for a pressure test to keep out any potential moisture and prevent any potential damage. Does anyone know what exactly is involved in a pressure test, cost of the test and cost of gaskets/work should they need to be replaced?

If in fact the gaskets do need to be replaced, should I have the watchmaker regulate or lubricate the watch while they have it open? Any suggestions?

[rolexfan21]

http://youtube.com/watch?v=chfgUuOz6_Y this link should help you with some of your questions. my guess is it wouldnt have any problems with pressure because that would be a problem if ur watch ever went into water. Rolex parts are not cheap.. a tiny spring being replaced can cost 300$. and just getting someone to open up your watch will cost 60$.

[finance21]

How about moisture? I personally have no intentions of exposing the watch to water of any kind however, my fear is more that moisture might build up inside the watch and cause some damage.

[mrbieler]

My local watch guy charges $25 to pressure test to 100m. He firsts tests in an air chamber to 30m and then in water to 100m assuming it passes the air chamber.

I do it every year on watches I know I'll swim in. Cheap insurance.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by finance21

How about moisture? I personally have no intentions of exposing the watch to water of any kind however, my fear is more that moisture might build up inside the watch and cause some damage.

Now Mike you are over worrying about your 5513,now the simple dry chamber pressure test will be more than adequate for your needs.And thats only to put your mind as rest,and most good watchmaker jeweller stores have the testing equipment.Now the 50-100m test will be fine.But not really necessary,if watch is running OK and crown is kept screwed down.And showing no signs of moisture etc on crystal.Best left to when a service is due perhaps in a few years,or when watch starts keeping not so good time just wear and enjoy.

[nko51]

If you love your Rolex, you should send it in to RSC, as recommended.

[finance21]

Thanks guys, however a RSC will change out my hands, dial, acylic ect. (unless I am mistaken) so I think it may be best to skip out on the RSC.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by finance21

Thanks guys, however a RSC will change out my hands, dial, acyclic ect. (unless I am mistaken) so I think it may be best to skip out on the RSC.

Well first all acrylic crystals are changed at service time,its part of normal service,but you must state that all the rest is left. There are a few in the US that Mike knows that are much more sympathetic to the vintage watch owners.These are a few links below posted by Mike,copy them for reference. .


An alternative would be to contact one of the two independent authorized Rolex repair centers in the states.

1.--Rolex Service Center
55 E. Washington #311
Chicago Ill. 60602 (312) 782-7768

2.--Rolex Service Center
210 Post St. #705
San Francisco Ca. 94108 (415) 982-9830