Engraving on the back of a vintage ladies date just

[Frich]

I must preface this by saying I am a complete newbie to Rolex watches. I prefer vintage (40s/50s) Omegas.

My wife always wanted a Rolex and I decided that this year, for our anniversary, I will buy her one. I looked around and found a beautiful vintage ladies date just. It was around 4500. The seller is a reputable jeweler.

The watch arrived the other day and, other than a few barely visible hairline scratches, looked beautiful out if the box.

I looked it over, no blemishes, but I did notice on the back of the watch a "stainless steel" engraving. It gave me pause because, based on my pre-purchase research/due diligence, the back of an authentic Rolex should be free of any engraving. That being said, I did read on a few blogs that some older ladies date just models do have stainless steel engraved on the back.

Should I be concerned? Based on the serial number the jewelry shop gave me the watch is circa 1981.

[freefly]

Originally Posted by Frich

Should I be concerned? Based on the serial number the jewelry shop gave me the watch is circa 1981.

No worries, a lady DJ from that era should have the engraving on the case back. Post pics if you have any other concerns.

[Knappo 1307]

Is it sold 18K? 4500 for a 1981 SS ladies DJ is very steep....

[Frich]

Here are photos of the watch. I realize that the diamond bezel is after market.

[77T]

I think the diamonds were added, too. OEM diamond dials of that era were different. But since you have the time, get it to a watchmaker who can tell you for sure.

[Frich]

Originally Posted by 77T

I think the diamonds were added, too. OEM diamond dials of that era were different. But since you have the time, get it to a watchmaker who can tell you for sure.

Would anyone know for certain if the watch is authentic and if so, how authentic? Is there a catalogue raisonne/reference guide of all Rolexes ever made? Perhaps only the Rolex Service Center would know for sure?

You think the diamonds were added to the face as well? I have seen vintage ladies DateJust from reputable dealers like Bob's Watches with diamond faces.

[MonBK]

The bezel and dial are aftermarket.

A diamond dial from that era should have MIR settings.

[MonBK]

Like this.

[crowncollection]

Originally Posted by Frich

I must preface this by saying I am a complete newbie to Rolex watches. I prefer vintage (40s/50s) Omegas.



My wife always wanted a Rolex and I decided that this year, for our anniversary, I will buy her one. I looked around and found a beautiful vintage ladies date just. It was around 4500. The seller is a reputable jeweler.



The watch arrived the other day and, other than a few barely visible hairline scratches, looked beautiful out if the box.



I looked it over, no blemishes, but I did notice on the back of the watch a "stainless steel" engraving. It gave me pause because, based on my pre-purchase research/due diligence, the back of an authentic Rolex should be free of any engraving. That being said, I did read on a few blogs that some older ladies date just models do have stainless steel engraved on the back.



Should I be concerned? Based on the serial number the jewelry shop gave me the watch is circa 1981.

Engraved caseback is normal, the dial and bezel are aftermarket


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[77T]

Originally Posted by Frich

Would anyone know for certain if the watch is authentic and if so, how authentic? Is there a catalogue raisonne/reference guide of all Rolexes ever made? Perhaps only the Rolex Service Center would know for sure?



You think the diamonds were added to the face as well? I have seen vintage ladies DateJust from reputable dealers like Bob's Watches with diamond faces.

A good watchmaker who is Rolex certified would know about the movement inside. Some ADs have them in-house or you can search AWCI database for independent ones nearby.

The only complete record for that particular Watch is at Rolex HQ and you access that knowledge at an RSC. If you brought it there, or sent it there, ask for a service quote to "make it like new". Their quote will include the items that need to be replaced to make it original.

As I said earlier, the diamonds on the dial weren't there originally and you already knew about the bezel. But other things inside may need work unbeknownst to you or us - pictures won't help. At the very least make sure the watch will pass a pressure test for water resistance - aftermarket bezels don't always conform to the case & crystal dimensions properly.

As for keeping it - if you still have time before the anniversary - I think you were charged too much for a 6xxxxxx s/n Lady DJ with aftermarket bezel/dial. I'd say $500-$800 too high but if she has seen it and likes it, then just consider it a trifle compared to her possible disappointment with any other ones you find.

[Frich]

Originally Posted by 77T

A good watchmaker who is Rolex certified would know about the movement inside. Some ADs have them in-house or you can search AWCI database for independent ones nearby.

The only complete record for that particular Watch is at Rolex HQ and you access that knowledge at an RSC. If you brought it there, or sent it there, ask for a service quote to "make it like new". Their quote will include the items that need to be replaced to make it original.

As I said earlier, the diamonds on the dial weren't there originally and you already knew about the bezel. But other things inside may need work unbeknownst to you or us - pictures won't help. At the very least make sure the watch will pass a pressure test for water resistance - aftermarket bezels don't always conform to the case & crystal dimensions properly.

As for keeping it - if you still have time before the anniversary - I think you were charged too much for a 6xxxxxx s/n Lady DJ with aftermarket bezel/dial. I'd say $500-$800 too high but if she has seen it and likes it, then just consider it a trifle compared to her possible disappointment with any other ones you find.

So the value of the watch as is (in the modified condition) with the after market diamond work/face is around $3500? She does really like it. I mean, the diamonds do make it pack quite a punch.

[77T]

Sorry I wasn't establishing a value for your watch - I was noting what the market is asking for other Lady DJ models with diamond bezels and dials. I can't say based on carat, color and clarity what those diamonds are worth in yours.

But you said the most important thing - she already loves it. Just get it pressure checked and make sure it is running as accurately as you expect before your return rights expire.

[jvmartin]

Looks like a 6917 (14k/SS)... dial and bezel are definitely aftermarket... definitely on the steep side but if you're buying in an actual storefront that is to be expected...

[GGGMT]

OP: This watch is like a bad clown show. Overpriced and jacked around with. Do yourself a favor as a new rolex investor and buy from a reputable seller on this forum.


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