Is it possible to build a Rolex Sub 5512 from parts?

[HERITAGE82]

Originally Posted by Nanuq

Certainly it can be done, but it would be easier to buy a complete watch.

That being said, if you assemble the parts to build one yourself, you'll learn a huge amount, gaining an appreciation for how they're made, and learning what to look for in future purchases.

And in the end, I dare say you'll enjoy the one you "built" more than one you "bought." I have five one-owner, all original vintage pieces and they're very nice. But the one I wear most is the one I built ... piece by meticulous piece.

Anyone can write a check. *Yawn* But it takes a certain devotion to create a piece of art from a pile of rare and expensive bits.

How about some pics of the one you "built"???

I totally agree with you that the journey of building your own would be long but full of information and memories!!!.....

[HERITAGE82]

Originally Posted by Nanuq

Happy to oblige! I'm pretty proud of this one, it was issued to a late friend of mine, who was a spec ops diver. They were a form of "currency" he said, and they could always sell it to get back home if needed. It was beat the death and he'd lost the bezel 3 times. We used to cut firewood together and I always admired it. When he died, we were leaving the funeral and his widow gave it to me, saying he wanted me to have it.

That was 22 years ago and it's taken until this past Spring to find all the pieces to put it back to "original". Many of the parts came from people you know on TZ, TZ-UK and elsewhere. Along the way I've learned little things like the minute size differences between (very expensive) vintage tropic crystals, that a 5.3mm brevet crown is correct for some pieces but not for a 6536/1 and that some parts will fit a 6536 but not its chronometer rated cousin. I've also learned that some things in a vintage build you just have to learn to live with, like inexplicably stiff winding.

Absolutely stunning!!!!....

Also, the way you aquired it has to be one of the best stories I have read. Especially after seeing it on your dear friends wrist for all those years and now I am sure everytime you look down it must bring you the warmest of feelings and put a big smile on your face...

Congrats on all the long hard work you put into that watch, and may it continue to bring fond memories for years to come!!!!

[bb3188]

Originally Posted by QCASANOVA

Absolutely stunning!!!!....

Also, the way you aquired it has to be one of the best stories I have read. Especially after seeing it on your dear friends wrist for all those years and now I am sure everytime you look down it must bring you the warmest of feelings and put a big smile on your face...

Congrats on all the long hard work you put into that watch, and may it continue to bring fond memories for years to come!!!!

X2.... wow, I can only imagine what a gratifying experience that restoration must have been, the results are simply stunning.....

[MoBe]

A 5512 middle case just sold on e-bay for $1950,draw your own conclusions.

[Paladin]

It's happening on eBay every day.....

[MoBe]

Double Post