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1 August 2009, 02:32 PM | #1 |
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Vintage Rolex Band Q.
I'm a newbie to vintage watches and Rolexes.
I have been looking at vintage Rolexes watches recently. My question- I have noticed a lot of vintage Rolex watches from the 50s-60s come with new bands. Is this normal? Does this reduce the value of the watch? I don't mind buying a vintage watch with a new band, but I'm wondering if i would be better off buying a watch and sourcing a new band from Rolex? My concern is that with the new band, I would not be getting the original Rolex clasp. I apologize if this has been addressed previously. I have been lurking on this forum for a while trying to learn and haven't see this question before. Cheers, FLI |
2 August 2009, 02:45 AM | #2 |
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As long as you are getting the buckle, I don't have a problem with a new band.
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2 August 2009, 07:33 AM | #3 |
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2 August 2009, 09:00 AM | #4 |
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Vintage watches are a mixed bag... Most who continued to wear their watches after the band stretched out or broke, or those who routinely sent theirs in for service and maintenance, have had the bracelet replaced with the most current service replacements..
Bracelets have always been considered expendables.. For the true collector, the quest is for the best example of an original piece..... and they are hard to find; consequently, sellers can ask for big bucks for these relatively few original watches.... They are only original once.. If you are looking for vintage because of it's rich heritage, history, and looks; a vintage with up-to-date parts can be a good buy....
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2 August 2009, 09:31 AM | #5 |
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FWIW, I prefer to have all my vintage pieces on modern bracelet, I just feel more secure that way.
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3 August 2009, 01:12 AM | #6 | ||
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Quote:
So I think your advice of a vintage watch with up to date parts is a good avenue for me to explore. Quote:
Good point. I didn't think of this. Thanks! FLi |
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3 August 2009, 01:19 AM | #7 |
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I don't think vintage bracelets were meant for the long haul and that's why older watches don't often have the original bracelets. And even if they did, as has already been mentioned, the bracelet may not be robust. Often, the solution is to switch over to a leather strap. But if you prefer the look of the bracelet there are people making vintage style replacement bracelets (to me the modern bracelets just don't look right on a vintage piece, but that's a personal preference). good luck!
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3 August 2009, 04:38 AM | #8 |
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3 August 2009, 07:33 AM | #9 |
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Please excuse my ignorance as I am still learning the vintage watch world...
A strap I'm assuming refers to a leather band. Whereas a bracelet refers to a band made of some metal, usually SS. Am I correct? I'm looking at a vintage Rolex that would look best with a leather strap/band. Does Rolex make leather straps/bands (modern or "retro", doesn't matter to me) that can be purchased and mated with a vintage watch? I would prefer to keep all components of the watch Rolex brand. Cheers, FLi |
3 August 2009, 08:14 AM | #10 | |
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Have a word with your local AD. If it is the same as the UK they will ring Rolex and give you the options and prices. The AD had to have my watch in front of them to give the model and serial number to Rolex. |
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3 August 2009, 01:48 PM | #11 |
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