To Overhaul or Not To Overhaul?

[Davew833]

Took my "new" 1970 red 1680 in to a local watchmaker and Rolex servicer for an appraisal today. The good news is that he carefully (and quickly!) disassembled it and pronounced it to be 'authentic.' However, he said the movement, though running correctly, was quite dry and worn and recommended overhauling it. He quoted about $450 labor and $100- $300 parts depending on what was found upon disassembly. Is this a fair price? He said he'd recently done a 1575 and showed me that he had the parts necessary in stock.

He also insisted that any money I spent on an overhaul now would be more than returned if I decide to sell it. I don't question the value of an overhaul for reliable operation and my own enjoyment, but I wonder if it really improves resale value.

My breathing is just now returning to normal-- I think I hyperventilated watching him swiftly and skillfully tear down my watch to the bare movement! (He was, of course, well-trained and very careful, I was just nervous.)

[Mr. Greene]

there's nothing wrong with a tune up and as long as they are Rolex parts I think it's ok but you should be able to get it serviced by Rolex.

[dsio]

At the very least it needs a crystal and seals to ensure its safety long term, spend the money while its cheap before it becomes more expensive down the track like it was for me.

[Racer X]

You might consider using the San Fran RSC. From what I've heard, they will work on vintage pieces, unlike the other RSCs. You might want to call them. If you do use them, you'll get Rolex service papers, which adds value.

Aside from that, there are many trusted watchmakers who can service the watch. For example, many recommend Bob Ridley.

[Frogman4me]

If its just the movement then go for it, to me a serviced movement is worth more just as long as the dial and hands are untouched and the case and bracelet are not polished.

[HL65]

I am using Bob Ridley-Watchmakers International--a great guy and great way to preserve a great investment!!! Not only do you gt his valuable service-you get his knowledge as he shares his time on the phone with you-at least 30 minutes to an hour. You also get the added value to your watch by having receipts from Bob-as he is a well known man in the watchworld--triple play!!!!

[nyyankees]

That's a good price if he's using genuine parts and you trust his ability.

[Davew833]

I don't have any experience with the technician except that he had certificates from the Lilitz school in PA, and it's a longstanding family watch & clock repair business- 40 years I think. I was impressed watching him with my watch today.

[Clay]

Do it....

[DoubleRedRolex]

Seems expensive. For that money, send it to RSC. As others have said, make sure they do not touch the dial, hands, datewheel, bezel insert or do any polishing. Replace the crystal, get new seals and a new crown and tube. Ask them to return the removed parts.

[HL65]

Actually that is quite inexpensive for that watch. If getting it done for cheapest price is you main goal-that rules out all of the great watchmakers as with them you get what you pay for. As for replacing crystal-for me I prefer a period correct one--new old stock! Also--make sure as stated above nothing is changed of significance-i.e. hands, dial, etc. As for returning parts--not going to happen with Rolex-only with a good independent. Rolex does not return parts as they do not want them out there in the marketplace.

[adam78]

I seriously doubt that any Rolex service center in the US will work on a Red Sub at this point, although Giovanni at his San Francisco authorized center might.

$450 as a base rate is pretty high for an independent. Now Bob Ridley may charge about that much, but with him you can be assured he knows what he's doing, and has many great references (including from me).

My local trusted watchmaker charged me $150 to overhaul each of my 5513 and gilt 1016, but although he still has many Rolex parts, he doesn't have a current parts account, so with anything problematic (especially such vintage pieces as bubblebacks) I send to Bob. There are also other trusted guys who post here (I'm thinking of Dalton)...

[swish77]

Take it to an RSC! The Rolex paperwork alone, proving the watch's authenticity, is well worth it, especially on such a valuable piece. Also, you'll get a 2-year factory warranty. (Heed the wisdom of others here: Don't let them change or polish a thing on the watch, except as needed in the movement.) Not sure why others have posted that RSC will not service vintage watches. I've been taking vintage Rolexes to the NYC RSC for years and never had a problem. I posted about my experience with my 5512 Sub earlier this year. They do indeed still service vintage Rolexes.

[adam78]

I've heard many stories that RSCs will no longer work on "exotic" dial vintages, at least in the US. I'm not talking about the garden variety Subs and Datejusts.

[RolexPete32]

I thought rolex would not touch anything past 30 years of age??? Is this not true.

[Flash Gordon]

Originally Posted by adam78

I've heard many stories that RSCs will no longer work on "exotic" dial vintages, at least in the US. I'm not talking about the garden variety Subs and Datejusts.

I agree. I have great experience with my bubbleback at RSC, SFO. $450 base price from an unknown independent is expensive and risky.