What to do? 16234 got run over by a car :/

[doctorluxe]

Dont ask.

But this 2001 era 16234 got ran over and its a hot mess. Ill preface by saying that its not going to be for sale, no emotional or family value in it, maybe if fixed for the right price could be a trade towards something else, just curious on whether its worth it or not.

Took it to a local reputable watch shop and they said it needs $3800 in work to get it going again - broken down to about :

- $750 service fee just to get in there
- $700 replacement bezel which is missing
- $600 dial replacement
- $200 crystal replacement
- $200 re-straightening of band (deployment clasp does not close)
- $1000 case replacement
- $400 something else I forgot
*plus potentially any other issues they find once the movement comes out

Now they said they think the movement is actually fine (shocker) but the case is bent and they cant get the movement out in order to actually check it - so Im looking at $3800 to get it going with all replaced parts. Is it actually even worth it at that point? The crown doesnt even come out or turn.

Yes, yes, I know the answer if you're gonna wear it and you love it of course its worth it but is that right? Do you think that theres another more renowned watchmaker that could be less? Am I getting ripped off? Should I send to RSC at this point? Ugh. So many questions! Sorry, just have never had this extent of repair ever!

[Zaslice]

Wouldn’t hurt to get a second estimate. NY has a service center

[Dan S]

I would definitely get a price from the RSC on this one.

[Kingface66]

Sorry about the watch, man.
Which reputable watch shop?
And def agree with Dan. Bring it to RSC.

[Old Expat Beast]

Definitely try RSC, though I expect they will charge more than 1,000 for a new case.

[harry in montreal]

Dang, I hate when that happens

Based on what you wrote, I would guess that removing the band (62510h) and pulling the movement and just selling them would be what I would do. You could earn upwards of a couple grand. Then add in the 3500 you are thinking of spending... you could just buy a suitable replacement. You are essentially replacing every other part. Plus the crown and stem and hand side are likely warped. That’s another few hundred easily

[Bestdj777]

I’d venture to say you’d get more out of it in its current shape then you would for it repaired, less the cost of repairs. People tend to overpay for broken stuff on eBay thinking that they can fix it up for a reasonable cost. I’d stick it up with a decent minimum on it and see what happens before paying out any money for it.

I don’t think it would be a very easy sell once it has a new dial, crown, and case.

[Woody]

I would move it on and buy a replacement (preowned).

[KY..]

Originally Posted by Bestdj777

I’d venture to say you’d get more out of it in its current shape then you would for it repaired, less the cost of repairs. People tend to overpay for broken stuff on eBay thinking that they can fix it up for a reasonable cost. I’d stick it up with a decent minimum on it and see what happens before paying out any money for it.

I don’t think it would be a very easy sell once it has a new dial, crown, and case.

I totally agree with this idea as a 2nd option if it’s just too pricey to fix since there is no personal attachment.

[karleone]

1000 for a replacement case? A replacement case at Rolex RSC would be more in the 3000 range…

[karleone]

I would bring it to Rolex RSC and ask for a quote.

[TuRo]

Just a thought 95% of household insurance policies would cover about $5k items 'away from the home' - if it's owned by you /pal then perhaps check. And if buying a mashed piece like this pls be careful as the serial number may have already had an insurance payout on it so it's an insurance paid 'marked piece' - When perfect this is a £4500-5000 watch so might be worth getting it fixed - I suspect SHWR in London could sort the case out and you could source other bits but as others say it's a marginal decision this one !

[L.K Johnson]

Keep it as is and let it raise in value and get yourself a new piece…You have an unique Rolex piece that has been driven over by a car. Not so many available! Write down the story as the provenance to go with the watch : )

Will kinda be like this Alec Monopoly Tag Heuer:

[harry in montreal]

I only buy broken stuff on eBay. It’s the only way with the prices today. I’m happy with watches that have wear or damage. You can’t fake rust !

[zapokee]

Originally Posted by doctorluxe

Dont ask.

I'm asking. You can't leave out the most interesting detail of the whole affair!

How did it get run over by a car? Hope it wasn't on a wrist at the time...