Case back removal and pressure testing

[morimotom]

Hello everyone,

First of all, thx for the nice welcome! I'm learning quite a bit (I think).

I have a question, or perhaps it is an observation, regarding watches being sold here. I notice quite a few have their case back removed, presumably so a potential buyer can see the movement and verify authenticity.

If one were to purchased piece like this, should it be pressure tested upon receipt? Or is its basic water "proofness" still maintained once properly reinstalled?

I did a search for "waterproof" and looked through the first couple pages but didn't find a similar question answered.

Thx, and I look forward to your responses.

[mjclark32]

I would think whenever you take off the case back it's a good idea to have it tested

[morimotom]

Originally Posted by mjclark32

I would think whenever you take off the case back it's a good idea to have it tested

I figured it would be. And I considered the fact that I was asking a question that seems to be answering itself.

I just want to be sure, since removal seems to be rather common.

[handsfull]

Yes, everytime the caseback is removed - it should be water tested. Although unlikely if performed correctly/carefully...any hair, dirt, or pinched oring can cause a compromise in the seal.

[77T]

Whenever you buy a pre-owned watch just assume it's been opened. The key is how well it was closed.

The last 2 I took in were just finger tight - my watchmaker and I were scratching our heads

SO always test your incoming pre-owned's

[morimotom]

Thx guys!

[316lad]

If you're looking at the FS (For Sale) Section - and indeed when buying any used Rolex - one of your absolutely MUST ask questions is; Has the back been opened and if so has it been resealed and pressure checked?

As a matter of course if you buy the watch - get it checked. It doesn't cost much - about $100.

It's money well spent - a flooded Rolex is hideously inaccurate and will spoil your whole experience of the brand...

What you don't want is this...

[Lt.Arclight]

I have serviced hundreds of Rolex watches and have NEVER had a failure. Provided the o ring is examined and lubricated-you can open and close the case with no issues. NO WAY would that watch in that condition be running-or at least running accurately. No to mention just trying to wind and set the time -the mechanism would be scratchy and obviously not correct.

This is a wives tail that is repeated over and over again. Opening the watch back is not an issue. In fact, if I bought a used watch that would be the absolute first thing I would do. I want to make sure the correct movement is where it belongs.

Nobody even thinks about unscrewing the crown to wind and set the watch-the orings in the tube are just as important. Its not the Ark of the Covenant- the back CAN be opened....

[kilyung]

I waterproof test all my watches myself every month or when I purchase one without RSC paperwork.

[Lt.Arclight]

For any one interested here are some examples of case pressure testers. They do show up at auction quite frequently very reasonably priced.

I have the Bergeon-they have excellent parts support. It will last you forever.

http://www.ofrei.com/page260.html

[316lad]

Originally Posted by Lt.Arclight

I have serviced hundreds of Rolex watches and have NEVER had a failure. Provided the o ring is examined and lubricated-you can open and close the case with no issues. NO WAY would that watch in that condition be running-or at least running accurately. No to mention just trying to wind and set the time -the mechanism would be scratchy and obviously not correct.

This is a wives tail that is repeated over and over again. Opening the watch back is not an issue. In fact, if I bought a used watch that would be the absolute first thing I would do. I want to make sure the correct movement is where it belongs.

Nobody even thinks about unscrewing the crown to wind and set the watch-the orings in the tube are just as important. Its not the Ark of the Covenant- the back CAN be opened....

...and your point is...?

[Lt.Arclight]

Originally Posted by 316lad

...and your point is...?

It isn't the holy grail. Its a Rolex and its just a watch. If you ask your question and they say yes it has indeed been pressure tested. Do you buy it?

Its been said here many times, by whom I don't recall-BUY the SELLER not the watch. You can rest assured, MANY have been opened and closed-never to be tested for water RESISTANCE then sold. I'm not a diver and don't see the need to wear an expensive watch in the pool,shower or ocean.

If you feel you have the need, then by all means have it tested. The fact is-it isn't a magic seal. Its a good design,it utilizes a reusable o-ring. More emphasis should be on the crown and the seals in the tube.

The picture you posted is a disaster-I'm sure the dial side looks just as bad.