Rolex GMY Master II Service

[PeterA280]

I have a 1999 era GMT Master II (A serial number) Watch has been a safe queen for most of the time. I wear it very occaisolnally so its in excellent shape. Main reason being is the number of watches I have. Watch runs great but I should probably have it serviced since lubrication dries out over time.

There are very few wear marks and the watch has never been polished. If I send it in for service, I don't want Rolex to polish it or change any parts. How do I make sure that they keep the watch original?

[swish77]

Originally Posted by PeterA280

How do I make sure that they keep the watch original?

Simply tell the RSC you want a movement-only service with no polishing/refinishing. And make sure the paperwork states that.

[brandrea]

Welcome to the forum.

If it’s running great I wouldn’t have them service it

[omar-rye]

Are you planning to drop it off in person? In my experience, they’ll ask if you'd like to wait, which usually takes about 30 minutes, or if you'd prefer they contact you later with a quote. I always choose to wait in their waiting area.

Once the evaluation is complete, they’ll call you back to the front desk to review their findings. Some recommendations might be optional—like a dial replacement, which was the case for me—where you'll need to sign or initial if you agree. Other recommendations could be necessary, such as replacing the hands. If you don’t agree to the necessary work and refuse to sign, they’ll reassemble the watch and return it to you as is without a service.

You’ll also confirm your choice about whether or not to have the watch polished on the paperwork. While there’s always a slight risk that a mistake could be made, they’re generally very good at following your instructions.

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by swish77

Simply tell the RSC you want a movement-only service with no polishing/refinishing. And make sure the paperwork states that.

And then cross your fingers.

[Tools]

If it's just lube and seals, find a good local watchmaker.

[omar-rye]

Originally Posted by Tools

If it's just lube and seals, find a good local watchmaker.

I understand your point, but RSC has its advantages. They provide a card that helps build the watch’s provenance, and they offer a two-year warranty that they’ll honor without any hassle—something that’s not always guaranteed with an independent service. It also gives you the peace of mind that the watch hasn’t been reported stolen previously. Additionally, Rolex won’t charge you for parts, and in my experience, independent services can actually be more expensive when movement parts need replacement. I could probably list a few more pros of going with RSC.

[Tools]

Originally Posted by omar-rye

I understand your point, but RSC has its advantages. They provide a card that helps build the watch’s provenance, and they offer a two-year warranty that they’ll honor without any hassle—something that’s not always guaranteed with an independent service. It also gives you the peace of mind that the watch hasn’t been reported stolen previously. Additionally, Rolex won’t charge you for parts, and in my experience, independent services can actually be more expensive when movement parts need replacement. I could probably list a few more pros of going with RSC.

The guy has a watch that is seldom worn and likely doesn't need any parts or provenance, he just wants it lubricated and sound seals.

Sending to RSC from Hawaii and spending the money for a full service it likely doesn't need is always a choice, but in this case an expensive choice.

The RSC is some folks always go-to response, but it isn't always the most cost effective, or even the best maintenance, option.

[zapokee]

There's a Rolex AD in Waikiki, just off the beach. Have a word with them.

[omar-rye]

Originally Posted by Tools

The guy has a watch that is seldom worn and likely doesn't need any parts or provenance, he just wants it lubricated and sound seals.

Sending to RSC from Hawaii and spending the money for a full service it likely doesn't need is always a choice, but in this case an expensive choice.

If that’s the case for his watch then I fully agree.

Originally Posted by Tools

The RSC is some folks always go-to response, but it isn't always the most cost effective, or even the best maintenance, option.

Similarly, some people instinctively bash RSC and advocate for independent service, especially for vintage watches, under the false pretense that RSC will replace everything under the sun without the owner’s permission. However, the decision to go with an independent or RSC should be made on a case by case basis. There are pros and cons to both options, depending on the individual circumstances.

[MitchSF]

Originally Posted by omar-rye

Idditionally, Rolex won’t charge you for parts, and in my experience, independent services can actually be more expensive when movement parts need replacement. I could probably list a few more pros of going with RSC.

That was an issue for me. A trusted independent quoted almost $500 for a crown, tube, and bezel insert for a 16710, in addition to the service. I decided to use RSC for this overhaul because it worked out to cost much less.