RSC GMT II make over?

[ewdiggs]

Over the last 10 years my 1996 ss/red black GMT II has been a work horse. For the 1st 5 years I wore it exclusively until I decided to add a few other pieces. It still keeps very accurate time. But I know it is time for service and a freshen up. Yesterday, I called the local AD (BB) and asked about service. Apparently, they only provide service in-house. So I guess I will have to deal directly with the RSC.

Any advice on servicing instructions and dealing with the RSC from long distance? I want to service the watch, replace the bezel insert with new and refinish the bracelet. I do not want them refinish the case based on some of the complaints I have read here where the edges on the case were beveled after a service. Also, how do they handle payments long distance?

[colemanitis]

RSCs polishing is second to none. I'd definitely have them polish the case while it's there.

[SPACE-DWELLER]

Originally Posted by colemanitis

RSCs polishing is second to none. I'd definitely have them polish the case while it's there.

I will second that!

But also, I would phone the RSC and talk with the person who is going to service your watch to give him directions. Better safe than sorry.

Good luck!

[Tools]

ew,

I'm surprised as I have taken a couple into the BB in the Fashion Show and they have sent them to be serviced.. Now, that was a few years ago..

In any event, you don't need an AD. Call the closest Rolex Service Center or drop them a note. They'll give you detailed instructions of how to package, ship, and pay for your service..


9420 Wilshire Blvd
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
(310) 271-6200

[mike]

Second what Larry said. I've had RSCBH service some of mine with excellent results. Turn around is about 3 to 3 1/2 weeks.

[Paulie]

MY 2003 Model GMTII black is at the New York RSC (it's close relative to Chicago). I phoned them up to make sure I had the address correct and the packaging details. Took me a couple weeks to find the "right" shipping box.

Sent USPS Registered Insured for 5k. Now, I don't have a fax machine, and apparently they don't do email very well, so I ended up calling about a week after the Registered Mail tracking number showed receipt of the box. The person explained what they found, what they required and recommended. Gave my Amex over the phone after they asked several questions for identification. I went with all service suggested. A day later I get in in the US Mail a quote for the service, so my timing was pretty good! Quoted 6 weeks for the work to be done.

A week or so later I get an invoice for the work, plus a sheet to return for authorizing the work. As my Amex was charged, I didn't mail back that form. So it's either on the bench or shipped. I'll know this week which if it shows up.

Recommend having a Fax number, or just an eFax. US Mail of quote and authorization forms add lots of delay.

[Paulie]

Oh, there are a couple of Authorized Rolex Repair centers, third parties with access to parts. One is in Chicago, but for this service I wanted the polish the RSC is famous for, as 5 years of scratches and bumps I wished to have cleaned up. From the clasp to half way up both sides, I practically had polished center links from wear because of keyboarding at my day job.

[ewdiggs]

Thanks for the help. Also, I will have the case refinished as many have suggested.

Tools, on BB, I didn't check the Fashion Show since I live in Henderson. I was given the in house service pitch at the BB at the Galleria.

[OysterDavid]

My unsolicited suggestion is to place a call to all 3 US RSC's and just go with the one that gives you the best 'vibe'. I've dealt with all three and found each to be different. Dallas is by far the most friendly over the phone, New York is more businesslike and formal and Beverly Hills is kind of somewhere in between.

I think they all do excellent work, but we all have our styles and with a watch that is so important that you'd spend time on an internet board like this, you really want to be comfortable with your choice.

People on this an other forums all seem to have their favorites...and it's probably personality related.

All of my waches that have paid visits to the various RSC's all come back looking like new. On a number of them, I've requested updating with new hands and dials. All keep excellent time...seemingly more accurate when worn than when left on the auto winder, but according to stories posted here and elsewhere, that too is fairly common.

Which ever RSC you choose, I'll bet you'll be impressed with the returned timepiece.

[Oyster Lover]

Lots of TRF'ers had really good things to say about Beverly Hills RSC, and I had read some not-so-nice comments about NYC RSC...