1996 W series Sub date service ?

[dopesin]

Hi guys,

I just picked up a 1996 W series submariner date 16610 in immaculate condition. I absolutely love it. The problem is that I didn't realise before making the purchase but the watch has never been serviced. It runs smooth at the moment but I'm worried as certain parts might be needing replacement due to the watch being almost 18+ years old. Should I send it to RSC for service ? Or keep it as it is. The watch was not worn much judging by its condition. It came with box and papers.
I could give it back and lose a little or give it to a reputed watchmaker for service as I'm afraid Rolex might replace some of its precious parts with newer ones and de-valuate the watch.

Any light/help would be greatly appreciated as I really like the watch.

Thanks in advance

[Keith1]

I would get it serviced for peace of mind, plus at this age it should be done. Then you will know the watch has been taken apart & cleaned, lubricated, and it will come back to you like new.

[dopesin]

Thanks for your quick reply.
Serviced by Rolex or a reputed independent watchmaker ?
I know one who deals in repairing Rolexes though not sure if older models too

[Keith1]

If you know of a Rolex certified watchmaker that has a parts account, and a great reputation, you should be good to go. Nothing wrong with going with a Rolex service either.

[Tools]

Originally Posted by dopesin

Thanks for your quick reply.
Serviced by Rolex or a reputed independent watchmaker ?
I know one who deals in repairing Rolexes though not sure if older models too

Only you can decide if it's time to get it serviced. They don't suddenly fall apart at some pre-determined date or time..

As to the RSC replacing something to devalue it, they do not do that without asking first. You get an estimate with what they recommend and what they require and you must agree to the service and cost before they do the work..

[ExplorerChris]

I'd service through Rolex and since it's 18 years old I'd do it now and start off on the right foot
You end up with a new watch and a 2 year Waranty from Rolex
I wouldn't worry about your watch being devalued the way the market is going things are looking up

[tkerrmd]

I would if mine

[gwozhog]

Run it till it breaks just to see how long it goes. Why not!

[Ryuden]

Got my then 16610 L serial dated 1990 checked and serviced by my watch maker...for a 24 years old watch, it was running smooth too before I send it in and all my watch maker did was to clean up and oil the movement...

[azguy]

jeesh, wear it until it stops and then send it to RSC.

There are no parts they would replace that would as you say ......."I'm afraid Rolex might replace some of its precious parts with newer ones and de-valuate the watch......"

It's not vintage, it's from 1996

[Rags]

Originally Posted by Keith1

I would get it serviced for peace of mind, plus at this age it should be done. Then you will know the watch has been taken apart & cleaned, lubricated, and it will come back to you like new.

Well said & I concur..

[bridgs]

I have that same W series sub from 1996 and it has been a great companion. You might consider not getting it polished or having the hands and dial replaced as they will most likely recommend. I let them polish it too many times but I have managed to keep the dial and hands which still glow.

[dopesin]

Thank you all for your precious input.

I have checked the watch and it is running well within COSC range
Surprises me immensely as the watch has not been serviced for 18 years !!!
Anyway, I'm keeping it as it is, might as well not have the case back opened hehe

Thanks again guys,