lifespan of a Rolex movement

[madmax21]

I know that Rolex movement is built for life and with proper maintenance and service which should last that. But what happens when a watch becomes super vintage if that's even a state. Does it ever become difficult to get parts for these things and make them liking you again.

[Tools]

A good vintage watchmaker can make most of the parts that will break in your watch..

[swils8610]

More than a lifetime.

[joe100]

Your watch will outlive you

[Rolex fan 61]

I spoke with rolex rsc at Kent UK just a few days ago, I was informed they attempt to keep all parts for their watches for at least 50 years so I would not worry.

[mike]

It's a consern that is discussed among vintage people often.

Properly maintained a movement will last generations. The question is always parts supply. I've been told Rolex will supply parts for 30 to 35 years after a given movement is discontinued.

Understand that's subject to conjecture. 1500 series movements were used in many models and parts are still available. The secondary market is a huge source, but care must be taken as to condition and lifespan of a part used or not. Example-- acryllic crystals can and do develop cracks whether used or not. Such is their nature. Can they be used? Sure, but pressure checks might be less than ideal.

Parts for older 1000 movements are becoming hard to find, but as Larry said a good watchmaker can make various parts. Of course among collectors that raises anothe debate, but it is an option--one collectors will have to come to terms with.

[Rashid.bk]

Originally Posted by madmax21

I know that Rolex movement is built for life and with proper maintenance and service which should last that. But what happens when a watch becomes super vintage if that's even a state. Does it ever become difficult to get parts for these things and make them liking you again.

For one it will be a concern for your children. Take care of a Rolex and it can surely outlive you as evidenced by the vintage section and the many people of that same era who aren't around anymore.

This is another reason I appreciate that Rolex crams out near a million watches a year, the more the better. I don't buy things for exclusivity and to feel special and unique, I buy what I like and makes me happy so it's great news that there are so many out there which will increase available parts and serviceability as the decades wear on. Good luck to those guys who buy one of those 50 special edition watches, but then many buy things for investment and never even wear it anyhow, so the point is moot and what a waste.

There have been special cases I've come across in this forum where Rolex was able to service a watch that was decades old(40+ years, can't remember the thread exactly) although a good skilled watchmaker will be able to do miracles with movements.

Patek has stated that it will service it's watches as long as it exists so if the resources are there I see no immediate or long term concern. Worst case in 60-70 years that watch can be in a little special display case your decedents have to remember you and the past(yeah a little romantic lol) whether it works or not. Even a broken 1st generation Apple desktop computer sells for a lot of money and has immense nostalgic value for many.