1675 questions - Loose bezel, Bracelet wear, Price

[Christian B]

Hi everyone,

I have been offered a 1977-vintage GMT-Master (serial 546xxxx). It has had one owner, who wore it regularly. It has recently been fully serviced by the local Rolex service centre. Price is the equivalent of 5,000 US$.

I have three concerns/questions:

1. The bezel feels quite loose. Not having had experience with non-ratcheting bezels, I'm unsure how big an issue it is. It does not turn freely, but rather feels as if it would turn from rubbing against clothes etc. Can this be remedied easily, by changing or modifying the friction ring? The bezel does not feel "worn", as in lateral play, but simply turns too easily for my liking. The watchmaker says "can be adjusted."

2. The bracelet has some stretch. Of course, this is to be expected. The watchmaker says that it is 30% worn/stretched. It feels okay to me, but tighter would be nicer, naturally. Is this degree of stretching acceptable/normal given its age? Should I budget for a new/NOS/slightly worn bracelet?

3. The price seems somewhat high to me, but I have not made a counter-offer yet. I do take into account that the parts are all original. (I spoke with the Rolex watchmaker.) I get a 2 year guarantee. The dial is original. Case has been expertly, carefully polished. (unpolished would have been nicer.) No visible corrosion on hands. Very slight unevenness/graininess on hands-lume. So, basically, for this price, I get a nice, risk-free 1675. No shipping required, no insurance, no import duties. Is the price fair?

I attach two pictures that have been snapped with a cellphone. My apologies for the lack of close-up detail; my phone struggles with macro photography.

Your opinons will be much appreciated.

Thank you!
Christian

PS. There are two small scratches on the bezel at 14:00 and 22:00.