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Unknown Idaho · 13 July 2011, 03:12 PM

This watch was my fathers and I am trying to get it fixed. I believe it was a basic steel watch in 1958 (no gold or jewels). The crystal is cracked, the ring around the crystal has gouges in it like someone tried to take it off without the right tools and the stem is missing. The band is a Spidel stretch band so I guess it was replaced sometime.

Anyone have an idea of cost to repair and where it should go for repairs? My local jeweler says they send it out, shipping is $45, won't say where it is going.

Out of curiosity anyone know how much it is worth? (it is NOT for sale, just curious.) I saw a similar one from 1960 in near perfect condition on eBay for sale for $27,500!!!

cruvon · 13 July 2011, 03:27 PM

Post some pictures and the pros here can tell:)

pdoukas · 13 July 2011, 03:29 PM

Please post pictures

Unknown Idaho · 13 July 2011, 04:13 PM

Here are some photos. I had to use the flash, I hope the colors are right. The flash really caught the scratches, it doesn't look THAT bad.

britincali · 13 July 2011, 04:29 PM

That is just begging for a trip to Bob Ridley......

cruvon · 13 July 2011, 04:55 PM

Looks like a 6234 and yes, to restore her she needs to go to Bob Ridley

adam78 · 13 July 2011, 09:50 PM

Agreed.

www.watchmakers.com/

Bob is not cheap (you get what you pay for), but he is probably one of the best in the USA to repair a complicated vintage Rolex. A Rolex Service Center will not touch this piece. You will want to replace the bracelet with an original riveted Oyster bracelet (7205 or equivalent with 19mm end pieces). Bob could possibly help you with this.

Please don't let your jeweler send it "somewhere"!

And it is worth a lot of money. If you send it to Bob, you can send it registered mail. Discuss with him how much coverage you should purchase (but it will be near or at the max).

What an heirloom piece!!

hennabav · 13 July 2011, 10:27 PM

You're one lucky fellow!! That's a rare piece!

Rikki · 13 July 2011, 11:20 PM

Send it on down will make and run like new. Rikki

Michael M. · 13 July 2011, 11:47 PM

Looks like a 6234 chronograph. You better send it down to Bob Ridley for an over haul.

Unknown Idaho · 14 July 2011, 12:35 AM

Wow, that's great guys. I will call Bob Ridley today.

Jagatai · 14 July 2011, 01:55 AM

that's a beauty!

conrail · 14 July 2011, 01:59 AM

Well, I wouldn't call it a beauty yet, it looks like a hot mess ;-) BUT, with some TLC from Bob Ridley and it certainly should be!

FormerBuckeye · 14 July 2011, 02:00 AM

I love it, but it certainly needs TLC.

dddrees · 14 July 2011, 02:02 AM

I think you should give Bob Ridley and discuss your options and what it will cost. However I think you will find this one would be well worth restoring.

689maple · 14 July 2011, 02:12 AM

To valuable and to much of a keepsake to just send off to parts unknown. You have been given great advice on a repair person here. Buy the repairman the same as you would buy a trusted seller and you will have a plesant experience. When I got my bubbleback from a relative (who bought it in summer of 1945 while on leave) it also had a spidel band. My relative couldn't remember what it had on it to begin with but with help here I got a period correct bracelet. I always wear it Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Put the money in the restoration and you will be happy you did.

ob1 · 14 July 2011, 02:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 689maple

To valuable and to much of a keepsake to just send off to parts unknown. You have been given great advice on a repair person here. Buy the repairman the same as you would buy a trusted seller and you will have a plesant experience. When I got my bubbleback from a relative (who bought it in summer of 1945 while on leave) it also had a spidel band. My relative couldn't remember what it had on it to begin with but with help here I got a period correct bracelet. I always wear it Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Put the money in the restoration and you will be happy you did.

Well said. Great watch well worthy of restoration. Probably be the best money you'll ever spend.

Michael M. · 14 July 2011, 04:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 689maple

To valuable and to much of a keepsake to just send off to parts unknown. You have been given great advice on a repair person here. Buy the repairman the same as you would buy a trusted seller and you will have a plesant experience. When I got my bubbleback from a relative (who bought it in summer of 1945 while on leave) it also had a spidel band. My relative couldn't remember what it had on it to begin with but with help here I got a period correct bracelet. I always wear it Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Put the money in the restoration and you will be happy you did.

Very well put, I agree 100%. A watch worthy of restoring!

harry in montreal · 14 July 2011, 08:26 AM

I wonder what the dude on Pawn Stars would say about that watch.

an ultimate barn find if i ever saw one.

Saxon007 · 14 July 2011, 09:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by harry in montreal

I wonder what the dude on Pawn Stars would say about that watch.

He would say: "I know watches but I'm not sure about this one so I'm gonna call in an expert I know."

Unknown Idaho · 14 July 2011, 10:24 AM

OK, called him. I told her the model (I didn't get her name) and after a few moments of talking about what it looked like I mentioned the one on eBay she laughed and said something like 'oh, it's one of those' (the phone fuzzed out at the wrong time...) and effusively talked about the old Daytonas, says they have six in the shop valued from $35k to over $500k !!!!! It will cost about $2500 to repair so I will have to save for a bit. I will post a better photo ASAP.

-Russell

cruvon · 14 July 2011, 11:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Unknown Idaho

OK, called him. I told her the model (I didn't get her name) and after a few moments of talking about what it looked like I mentioned the one on eBay she laughed and said something like 'oh, it's one of those' (the phone fuzzed out at the wrong time...) and effusively talked about the old Daytonas, says they have six in the shop valued from $35k to over $500k !!!!! It will cost about $2500 to repair so I will have to save for a bit. I will post a better photo ASAP.

-Russell

You mean this one on ebay?
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Vintage-R...item2c5dec01eb, is the same model as yours I guess.

Whew, what the 500k+ Daytonas I wonder:)

timehonored · 14 July 2011, 01:34 PM

Great Watch!
Just for Alternative sake, Giovanni at the Authorized Rolex Service Center in San Francisco is certainly capable and willing to work on this watch. Authorized Service will go a long ways should you choose to resell. Good Luck

Unknown Idaho · 14 July 2011, 02:23 PM

Actually this one:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ROLEX-VINTAGE-OY...-/200522290402

Beautiful condition from this un-trained eye.

My watch was purchased in San Francisco, I believe. Would be nice to take it there for service, it is within driving distance (well, 12 hours or so...)

greekbum · 14 July 2011, 02:27 PM

IMHO if you are going to sell the watch you probably will get more for it the way it is rather than service etc.If however you are going to keep it and wear it then a service by a watchmaker who can source the parts it needs is what you need

ExpII · 14 July 2011, 08:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by britincali

That is just begging for a trip to Bob Ridley......

x2

kevin5 · 16 July 2011, 01:42 AM

Wow, i'd like to see some photos when it is done being overhauled!

Unknown Idaho · 26 July 2011, 06:16 AM

Well, I took it to Boise this morning for an appraisal, can't get any valuation on it here besides 'in this condition it is basically worthless' from the authorized Rolex repair center. In their defense, Rolex doesn't do 'vintage'.

So, figuring $200 for insurance alone to ship it to Texas and about $2500 to repair, neither of which I have on disability, I guess it is time to find another good home for it. How do I go about finding a valuation and a buyer on this highly knowledgeable list? Post here or PM me.

One thing, this watch sure feels nice on the arm, even a hairy old man arm like mine...

Unknown Idaho · 27 July 2011, 04:06 PM

Some more photos showing the model number '6234' and the serial number '223XXX'. The photo of the watch at an angle is meant to show the blued hands, it shows a little.

Does anyone know if there is a database or something I can check the serial number against? Maybe find out where it was purchased?

I would like to figure out why the date of manufacture (apparently 1951) differs so much from the purchase date (1958). I assume some could sit on the shelf for some time or it could have been bought by my dad used (knowing him it would be 'nothing but the best' if he had money and in 1958 he HAD the money) so he probably found a good deal on a new one.

stephentross · 27 July 2011, 04:17 PM

Very nice, Id keep it and wear it like it is.

quick search found these images of what may have been.
http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=32428

13 July 2011, 03:12 PM	#1
Unknown Idaho "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Idaho - USA Posts: 11	1958 Rolex Oyster Chronograph needs repair This watch was my fathers and I am trying to get it fixed. I believe it was a basic steel watch in 1958 (no gold or jewels). The crystal is cracked, the ring around the crystal has gouges in it like someone tried to take it off without the right tools and the stem is missing. The band is a Spidel stretch band so I guess it was replaced sometime. Anyone have an idea of cost to repair and where it should go for repairs? My local jeweler says they send it out, shipping is $45, won't say where it is going. Out of curiosity anyone know how much it is worth? (it is NOT for sale, just curious.) I saw a similar one from 1960 in near perfect condition on eBay for sale for $27,500!!!

13 July 2011, 04:13 PM	#4
Unknown Idaho "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Idaho - USA Posts: 11	Here are some photos. I had to use the flash, I hope the colors are right. The flash really caught the scratches, it doesn't look THAT bad. Attached Images

13 July 2011, 04:29 PM	#5
britincali "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: North Wales UK Watch: 16600,16570,6098 Posts: 706	That is just begging for a trip to Bob Ridley...... __________________ Prick club member # 6 P 16600 M Polar EXP II 1951 Waffle dial 6098 https://www.facebook.com/LlwynFfynnon

13 July 2011, 09:50 PM	#7
adam78 "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Chicago Posts: 1,830	Agreed. www.watchmakers.com/ Bob is not cheap (you get what you pay for), but he is probably one of the best in the USA to repair a complicated vintage Rolex. A Rolex Service Center will not touch this piece. You will want to replace the bracelet with an original riveted Oyster bracelet (7205 or equivalent with 19mm end pieces). Bob could possibly help you with this. Please don't let your jeweler send it "somewhere"! And it is worth a lot of money. If you send it to Bob, you can send it registered mail. Discuss with him how much coverage you should purchase (but it will be near or at the max). What an heirloom piece!! __________________ Cheers, Adam

13 July 2011, 11:20 PM	#9
Rikki TechXpert Join Date: Jun 2009 Real Name: Rik Dietel Location: Seminole Fla Watch: 5512 s/s Sub Posts: 1,818	Send it on down will make and run like new. Rikki __________________ Century 21 Certified watchmaker Omega Service Provider Trained Omega OWME Certified. Rolex Parts Account Holder.

13 July 2011, 03:27 PM	#2
cruvon "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Australia Posts: 4,689	Post some pictures and the pros here can tell:)

13 July 2011, 03:29 PM	#3
pdoukas "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2010 Real Name: Pete Location: Arizona Watch: ing Duke bball Posts: 1,488	Please post pictures

13 July 2011, 04:55 PM	#6
cruvon "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Australia Posts: 4,689	Looks like a 6234 and yes, to restore her she needs to go to Bob Ridley

13 July 2011, 10:27 PM	#8
hennabav Banned Join Date: Mar 2009 Real Name: Jon Location: New England Watch: --Rolex-- Posts: 2,391	You're one lucky fellow!! That's a rare piece!

13 July 2011, 11:47 PM	#10
Michael M. Banned Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Newport Beach, CA Posts: 8,391	Looks like a 6234 chronograph. You better send it down to Bob Ridley for an over haul.

14 July 2011, 12:35 AM	#11
Unknown Idaho "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Idaho - USA Posts: 11	Wow, that's great guys. I will call Bob Ridley today.

14 July 2011, 01:55 AM	#12
Jagatai "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2010 Real Name: Philip Location: NY Posts: 851	that's a beauty!

14 July 2011, 01:59 AM	#13
conrail "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Boston Posts: 3,177	Well, I wouldn't call it a beauty yet, it looks like a hot mess ;-) BUT, with some TLC from Bob Ridley and it certainly should be! __________________ "Oh, you give a f****' aspirin a headache, pal!"

14 July 2011, 02:00 AM	#14
FormerBuckeye Member Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Michigan Posts: 29	I love it, but it certainly needs TLC.

14 July 2011, 02:02 AM	#15
dddrees "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2010 Real Name: Dan Location: USA Watch: This N That Posts: 34,258	I think you should give Bob Ridley and discuss your options and what it will cost. However I think you will find this one would be well worth restoring. __________________ When it captures your imagination, that's when you know you have found your passion. Loyal Foot Soldier of The Nylon Nation. Card Carrying Member of the Global Association of Retro-Grouch-Curmudgeons

14 July 2011, 02:12 AM	#16
689maple Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Real Name: Russ N. Location: Western N.C. USA Watch: 116718 PP & B Bay Posts: 323	To valuable and to much of a keepsake to just send off to parts unknown. You have been given great advice on a repair person here. Buy the repairman the same as you would buy a trusted seller and you will have a plesant experience. When I got my bubbleback from a relative (who bought it in summer of 1945 while on leave) it also had a spidel band. My relative couldn't remember what it had on it to begin with but with help here I got a period correct bracelet. I always wear it Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Put the money in the restoration and you will be happy you did.

14 July 2011, 08:26 AM	#19
harry in montreal "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Montreal Watch: The Habs pick 1st! Posts: 3,589	I wonder what the dude on Pawn Stars would say about that watch. an ultimate barn find if i ever saw one.

14 July 2011, 10:24 AM	#21
Unknown Idaho "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Idaho - USA Posts: 11	OK, called him. I told her the model (I didn't get her name) and after a few moments of talking about what it looked like I mentioned the one on eBay she laughed and said something like 'oh, it's one of those' (the phone fuzzed out at the wrong time...) and effusively talked about the old Daytonas, says they have six in the shop valued from $35k to over $500k !!!!! It will cost about $2500 to repair so I will have to save for a bit. I will post a better photo ASAP. -Russell

14 July 2011, 01:34 PM	#23
timehonored "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2011 Real Name: Doug Location: SFO-HNL-SLC Watch: Z-Blue Milgauss Posts: 80	Great Watch! Just for Alternative sake, Giovanni at the Authorized Rolex Service Center in San Francisco is certainly capable and willing to work on this watch. Authorized Service will go a long ways should you choose to resell. Good Luck

14 July 2011, 02:23 PM	#24
Unknown Idaho "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Idaho - USA Posts: 11	Actually this one: http://cgi.ebay.com/ROLEX-VINTAGE-OY...-/200522290402 Beautiful condition from this un-trained eye. My watch was purchased in San Francisco, I believe. Would be nice to take it there for service, it is within driving distance (well, 12 hours or so...) Last edited by Unknown Idaho; 14 July 2011 at 02:42 PM.. Reason: Fixed line about San Francisco

14 July 2011, 02:27 PM	#25
greekbum "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2007 Real Name: Nikos Location: Florida Watch: Rolex GMT 16750 Posts: 8,418	IMHO if you are going to sell the watch you probably will get more for it the way it is rather than service etc.If however you are going to keep it and wear it then a service by a watchmaker who can source the parts it needs is what you need __________________ Follow Me On Instagram @nickgogas Original Owner ROLEX 16750 GMT Daily Wearer For Over 13,000 Days And Counting

16 July 2011, 01:42 AM	#27
kevin5 Banned Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Northern VA Posts: 53	Wow, i'd like to see some photos when it is done being overhauled!

26 July 2011, 06:16 AM	#28
Unknown Idaho "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Idaho - USA Posts: 11	Well, I took it to Boise this morning for an appraisal, can't get any valuation on it here besides 'in this condition it is basically worthless' from the authorized Rolex repair center. In their defense, Rolex doesn't do 'vintage'. So, figuring $200 for insurance alone to ship it to Texas and about $2500 to repair, neither of which I have on disability, I guess it is time to find another good home for it. How do I go about finding a valuation and a buyer on this highly knowledgeable list? Post here or PM me. One thing, this watch sure feels nice on the arm, even a hairy old man arm like mine... Attached Images

27 July 2011, 04:06 PM	#29
Unknown Idaho "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Idaho - USA Posts: 11	Some more photos showing the model number '6234' and the serial number '223XXX'. The photo of the watch at an angle is meant to show the blued hands, it shows a little. Does anyone know if there is a database or something I can check the serial number against? Maybe find out where it was purchased? I would like to figure out why the date of manufacture (apparently 1951) differs so much from the purchase date (1958). I assume some could sit on the shelf for some time or it could have been bought by my dad used (knowing him it would be 'nothing but the best' if he had money and in 1958 he HAD the money) so he probably found a good deal on a new one. Attached Images

27 July 2011, 04:17 PM	#30
stephentross 2025 TitaniumYM Pledge Member Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Southwest USA Posts: 897	Very nice, Id keep it and wear it like it is. quick search found these images of what may have been. http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=32428

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