Vintage Date just Questions

[Bubba Gump]

Hello,

I am new to the forum, I just received my vintage solid 18k Gold Datejust back from Rolex service. This watch was originally my grandfathers, then my fathers, and know mine (my dad passed away in July) I am thrilled to have a Rolex of my own and a piece of family history.

I have a few questions regarding care and setting the time etc. My wife bought me an automatic winder for the watch, if I wear the watch daily do I need to put it in the winder every night? What precautions should I take in setting the watch, any particular movements the stem should not go in?

I would also like to know the history of the watch- the dial says- Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust, the case is solid yellow gold, the original band was a cheap knock off, I replaced with a genuine Rolex brown leather strap with 14k gold buckle. I just spent @$1500 for the service and the band, I am going to take to get appraised for my insurance and recommendations?

The service card says-
Serial # X 64xxx
Model # 6605/8

Look forward to hear about my new watch, this site is a wealth of information.

Thanks,

BG

[volkersports]

Your watch sounds elegant. The serial number reference on the service card is probably an indication that the first number is unreadable. There should be six numbers for that vintage. The 6605 should date from the late 50's. Did the service card indicate the movement number?

[Bubba Gump]

Thanks for the response, from the serial # I have figured out this watch is from 1957 I have attached an image of the watch below. I did not see a movement # on the service card, the watch does have a roulette style date wheel. The picture does not do the watch full justice. For a watch over 50 years old it seem to be in great shape, how rare are solid gold DJ from the 50's?

Thanks,

BG

[gmtking]

Nice piece! take care of using the correct leather band, or it will buff away the serial numbers!

[slcbbrown]

I'm not a vintage Rolex expert, but I've got a gold DJ that dates to the 50's. After a full service, you shouldn't have to do anything special to take care of or operate this watch.

Without being familiar the exact model, I would guess the value at $2,500 to $3,500. The full service might add $500 to either number, though.

My watch is 14 carat. Are you sure yours is 18?

[Bubba Gump]

Thanks Guys, I am pretty sure it is 18k at least that is what the sales guy said at the AD I brought it to for service. As far as the serial and model #'s the were already previously almost buffed off, can barely see them now as it is.

Are the serial and model #'s only located by the lugs? or are they stamped somewhere on the inside of the watch as well? The only way I got the serial # was from the warranty card I received from the service center.

Thanks,

BG

[Flash Gordon]

That's a nice looking watch you have! I am not keen on watch winder. By using it, you generate additional wear and tear on the watch's winding unit. Daily wear should generate enough energy to keep the watch going. Even occasionally not wearing the watch and let the watch stop does not cause any harm whatsoever. I just don't see any benefits about winders. I think most of us with mutiple watches do not use watch winders. My 0.02.