AirKing 5500 with replacement case from RSC

[badgtho]

Hi guys

I just picked up a 1986 5500 AK to give as a gift and upon receipt I noticed it had A 4 mil serial.

Not knowing much about this sort of thing I did some research on here and found that's a replacement case.
The paperwork from RSC shows a document in German from 2004 stating an old serial from 86 and then the new serial from the replacement in 2004.

This was not disclosed to me prior to sale.
Does this kill the value?

Other than a poor polishing job on the bracelet and bezel the watch will clean up.

I do have the original paperwork from
The 80s along with the 2004 paperwork stating the change in serial.

Thoughts?

[Old Expat Beast]

If it is a replacement case then that does affect the value negatively, yes, but not as much as it would on a more collectible vintage like a Sub or GMT.

[badgtho]

Thanks. What magnitude of effect on the value? Should I just try to get my money back here?

I did get the paperwork translated from German and the RSC stated the case was changed.

[Old Expat Beast]

I would try to get a refund, sure. Either that or some cash back. Maybe 25%. Kind of depends how the watch was advertised though.

[badgtho]

Paid $1644.

[Old Expat Beast]

Price is about right for an original 5500, depending on condition, etc. Where did you buy it? Any pics?

[badgtho]

It was on eBay.
The seller has offered a small amount of money back or I can return it.

Look at this on eBay:

http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item...obalID=EBAY-US

100% GENUINE ROLEX STAINLESS STEEL MENS WATCH 5500 AIR-KING NO DATE OYSTER BAND

[Old Expat Beast]

If you think you might want to sell it someday, send it back. Besides the drop in value, replacement cases can be hard to sell. The bracelet clasp also looks off to me, especially the crown logo, but I could be wrong.

[badgtho]

The clasp is correct. Just polished.
I asked for a significant refund or I'll send it back.

[watchwatcher]

Originally Posted by badgtho

The clasp is correct. Just polished.
I asked for a significant refund or I'll send it back.

Keep us posted, good luck!

[badgtho]

I reached an agreement for an acceptable partial refund and kept it.

[joe100]

Originally Posted by badgtho

I reached an agreement for an acceptable partial refund and kept it.

Probably best. At least with the new case, you should be able to hold a pressure test no problem.

[badgtho]

It's a gift for my wife. It's not intended to ever be sold.

[badgtho]

ImageUploadedByTapatalk1437701141.210321.jpgImageUploadedByTapatalk1437701152.475664.jpg

[badgtho]

Before polish, clean and bracelet removal, soak and sizing:
ImageUploadedByTapatalk1437701272.498155.jpgImageUploadedByTapatalk1437701285.626083.jpg

[HERITAGE82]

Looks great and I wouldn't worry about the replacement case. I am sure your wife will love it!

[Sunny Arizona]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

I would try to get a refund, sure. Either that or some cash back. Maybe 25%. Kind of depends how the watch was advertised though.

I totally disagree on this watch and should not think it should make a bit of difference. It the buyer stated all original..then yes. If not then think buyer got a better case that likely was in better shape.
You had a very understanding seller.

[badgtho]

Originally Posted by HERITAGE82

Looks great and I wouldn't worry about the replacement case. I am sure your wife will love it!

She did!

I mean she's got taste. She chose me!!