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Old 14 March 2011, 06:24 AM   #1
union special
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Watch: 1680 RED/5513 GILT
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rolex 5513 assembly reference

Hi-

I am assembling my first project watch and do not have a lot of experience with watchmaking. I am wondering if there are a few links that cover basic assembly for a rolex submariner. I am looking for some images and instructions on

-removing /assembling the crystal and retaining ring
-removal of the movement from the case
-removal of the dial
-removing / assembling the tube and crown
-assembly of the stem to the movement / crown
-removal / assembly of hands.


Can anyone suggest a website or book that cover older rolex submariners specifically?

I'm purchasing basic tools-

-movement holder
-basic screwdriver plier set
-case-back opener
-hand remover
-crystal press

Is there anything else I should be purchasing? Any info greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Glenn
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Old 14 March 2011, 11:58 AM   #2
crhfish
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I don't think you will find much on the net. There are a few vids that show the movements, but you need to have done other watches before too really use them.

If you have not done one before, get and old bulova, elgin or other windup to start with. You can try and hand clean, but it does not really get the job done very well on something really dirty. Old acrylic crystals are easy and cheap. Saphire or mineral crystals are a bit harder and have to be done right. You will need oilers, watch oil, cleaner, rinse, screwdrivers, good closeup eyewear and the other items you mentioned. Once you have done 20 or cheaper watches and feel confident, you might try a rolex.

The hard parts to me are hand removal (get a good tool and protect the dial), tiny springs, and some of the real tiny screws some movements have. Be patient and be prepared to do what all watch makers do, get on your hands and knee's to find some little part you dropped.

Also, real watch repair that involves hair springs, jewel replacement, pivot replacement, pallet reapirs, etc is best left up to the professionals so you can only go so far on your spare time. I just clean mine and oil them, I've done hundreds now but anything else I send it off.

One last thing, do it for fun. You won't really save any money. You will tear up enough to offset any savings you think you might have.
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Old 14 March 2011, 02:41 PM   #3
union special
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Thanks for the tips. I have collected up a few dials/ cases and parts and more interested in just basic assembly as a hobby as apposed to real repair or movement work. I'd like to be able to just change the cosmetics of my watches like dials, hands, crowns, crystals etc.. and plan on leaving real servicing to a pro, especially on a vintage rolex movement!
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Old 14 March 2011, 05:28 PM   #4
swatty
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Check out youtube

ps:love to see some pics
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