Are old subs still waterproof?

[watchstudent]

Or any watch for that matter.

If you get the watch serviced regularly and seals changed etc will it always be able to pass a pressure test to its intended depth or does there become a time when things have just got a bit looser meaning the same water resistance can't be achieved.

Any of you guys with older subs still go swimming or diving with them?

[thewatchguy93]

As long as its serviced at the correct intervals 4-5 years, seals, gaskets etc are replaced and pressure test is undergone. You will be fine. Always use Rolex service centres for 100% peace of mind


Dino

[Old Expat Beast]

Acrylic crystals need to be changed every few years, and eventually the caseback might need to be replaced if there's too much corrosion. But if a pressure test is done, say, annually, then you should be fine.

[DCheeta]

I had this same question last year when I picked up a 1974 Sub Date. Jason pointed me to an earlier thread of his regarding diving with vintage watches. Very informative.

https://www.rolexforums.com/showthre...highlight=Dive

[crowncollection]

Depends on service history and condition, but can be for sure.

[HogwldFLTR]

Have the watch pressure tested and you'll know for certain. I've had it done with several new purchases of which I was uncertain. It gives good piece of mind for little expense if you are going to swim with them.

[submariner66]

AD's will typically charge for pressure testing??

[mjclark32]

Originally Posted by submariner66

AD's will typically charge for pressure testing??

Not the one by me

[enginerd]

Are old cars reliable?

[up2nogood]

All depends on seal and crystal integrity, combined with case corrosion. New bits can't fix the latter.

[HogwldFLTR]

Originally Posted by submariner66

AD's will typically charge for pressure testing??

If they have the ability and you are their customer likely not. I take mine to an independent.

[EEParker]

Maybe I'm overly cautious but even if mine passes all the tests I think I'd refrain from diving with a vintage one. Just seems too risky.

[Chris B]

Surely a recently serviced older Sub would have the same waterproof properties as a newer model?

(and don’t call me Shirley lol)

[Tools]

Originally Posted by watchstudent

Or any watch for that matter.

If you get the watch serviced regularly and seals changed etc will it always be able to pass a pressure test to its intended depth or does there become a time when things have just got a bit looser meaning the same water resistance can't be achieved.

Any of you guys with older subs still go swimming or diving with them?

If a watch is neglected then the case back sealing area or crown tube may become pitted and corroded. If those sealing surfaces are all intact and seals fresh, then there is no reason a watch would be any less water resistant than when it was new.

The reason you might not go swimming with an older Sub would be because, in the event of an accident, you couldn't get it repaired easily or cheaply.

[watchstudent]

Seems to be the answer is, yes if looked after but at your own risk.

[gr33n]

My submariner go under the shower daily, and in seawater every two or three days (I live in a tropical island).
I service it every 5 years, and that is all. No pressure test, if the watch has no problems two years after service (the rolex warranty after service is 2 years, including waterproofing), then it will last 5 years without problems.

[DCheeta]

No need for conjecture. There are real life experiences and photos from which you can glean your answer (click link below). It goes beyond pressure testing. The consensus among experienced divers and vintage collectors seems to be "collect acrylic, swim in sapphire."

https://www.rolexforums.com/showthre...highlight=Dive

[JohnBaker3]

" The consensus among experienced divers and vintage collectors seems to be "collect acrylic, swim in sapphire." "

+ 10

[14060m]

be careful
have it serviced regulary

[Girkmonster]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

Acrylic crystals need to be changed every few years, and eventually the caseback might need to be replaced if there's too much corrosion. But if a pressure test is done, say, annually, then you should be fine.

If you service at RSC, acrylic crystal is included in the service. Another reason to do so.

[dysondiver]

[QUOTE=Old Expat Beast;5249466]Acrylic crystals need to be changed every few years, and eventually the caseback might need to be replaced if there's too much corrosion. But if a pressure test is done, say, annually, then you should be fine.[/QUOT

im a strict anti water on anything you dont want to destroy or loose ,,, so in my view , yes you can , but why take the risk..,,,
pass the test today , no promise it will still stand the pressure in a month , or two ... buy a casio , theres no need to swim in vintage watches,
too many threads on hear with ruined watches ,
so for me , its a yes you can ,,, but do you really want to.