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hammertime · 20 April 2009, 01:17 AM

I was handed down a well loved, very worn Men's Oysterdate from the 1960's which has seen better days. The face appears water damaged (turned green) and the bezel is worn internally as it takes a while to manually wind it.
But it still works!!

I love this watch and haven't taken it to a watch maker's as I am unsure if they will keep the original parts. Will Rolex service this much damage?

idk01 · 20 April 2009, 01:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hammertime

I was handed down a well loved, very worn Men's Oysterdate from the 1960's which has seen better days. The face appears water damaged (turned green) and the bezel is worn internally as it takes a while to manually wind it.
But it still works!!

I love this watch and haven't taken it to a watch maker's as I am unsure if they will keep the original parts. Will Rolex service this much damage?

Hi Hammertime, Welcome to TRF

It all depends on how much you want to spend, Rolex will service the movement but It would be worth talking to a few members on here that buy and sell parts, might be worth it if you want to spend the coin and restore the old girl to her previous glory. new dial and what ever is needed. Is the dial has turned a funny color could me moisture and need a hefty overhaul replacing parts in the movement.

Post up some pics let us have a look.

Cheers,

Dave.

TimeToGo · 20 April 2009, 01:28 AM

If Rolex feels the original parts will compromise the movement in the future, ie scaling of the dial, they will not service the watch.

Post a couple of pics, there are some great watchmakers that will make the watch RIGHT for you!

Cheers and WELCOME to the FORUM!!!

Bisquitlips · 20 April 2009, 01:32 AM

I would suggest you contact Dalton here on this forum. His work is amazing!

SLS · 20 April 2009, 01:41 AM

There are several watchmakers that specialize in dial restoration, Bob Ridley here in the US has done some amazing work. If memory serves, there is a gentleman I Australia who has a good reputation as well. It's worth the effort to contact these watchmakers before sending the watch off to a Rolex service center. Please post pics.
Scott

diablojota · 20 April 2009, 01:48 AM

Rolex most likely won't work on your watch because it is too old. Contact one of the suggested watchmakers mentioned above and they'll make it good as new.

Dalton · 20 April 2009, 02:14 AM

Rolex wont touch it but I will and so will Bob R. I repair lots of vintage stuff. Got a pic?

hammertime · 20 April 2009, 03:36 AM

Here is a pic of the oysterdate.

I have no idea of model of serial number, I have no papers. Not really interested in value, I want to keep this one. I don't think it would be worth much with all this damage anyways. It has had a long and interesting life.

I am guessing it would be a costly restoration knowing where I can get it done would be a great start.

Thanks all, a lot of knowledge being passed around this site....

Dalton · 20 April 2009, 04:18 AM

Looks like a 50's-60's model. Have you opened it to look inside? If you can properly open it, please post a pic. the movement is what I want to see at this point.

gettocard · 20 April 2009, 04:20 AM

wow...looks stunning !! You lucky you !!

Boopie · 20 April 2009, 05:18 AM

It looks like a nice watch.

There are several reputable watch repair shops who will give you a free estimate. It's up to you to decide if it's worth it. My husband inherited some vintage (40s-50s) watches which, while nice, aren't Rolexes. We ended up fixing a really cool-looking Movado for about $350. That was about the price we were willing to pay. We probably wouldn't have repaired it for $500. We also have a Baume & Mercier chronograph which will cost over $500 to repair (because of the chronograph complications), plus the cost of a band. That one probably isn't worth repairing at this point. We also have some newer watches that cost much, much more to repair than they are worth (such as a Hamilton with water damage, due to a defective crown). Those watches will stay "dead," I'm afraid.

I would, however, put a vintage Rolex, Patek, etc. in a separate category than our Movado and Baume & Mercier. If I owned your watch, for example, and a reputable watch maker would fix it so that it could be worn, and could do so for $1000 or less, I would do it. If it were a Movado, I wouldn't do it for that price. Everyone has their price point.

Balboa · 20 April 2009, 06:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hammertime

Here is a pic of the oysterdate.

I have no idea of model of serial number, I have no papers. Not really interested in value, I want to keep this one. I don't think it would be worth much with all this damage anyways. It has had a long and interesting life.

I am guessing it would be a costly restoration knowing where I can get it done would be a great start.

Thanks all, a lot of knowledge being passed around this site....

If you remove the band, the serial number can be found between the lugs at the 6 end. That will allow you to know the age by looking up the serial number. The model/case number will be found at the 12 end.

Looks like it might be a model 6294 and the dial is not all that horrible. It has acquired some personality. I notice the crown is not screwed down. Is it stripped? If so, it can be fixed.

Hope you get it fixed up and cleaned up. A very solid watch. My 1954 version still runs strong and gets worn frequently.

Mark

JNOV · 20 April 2009, 06:12 AM

Dude....Lets see the inside of this baby!

abr68 · 20 April 2009, 07:19 AM

When I see that front I would wonder if the movement is in a condition Dalton or Bob can´t help.
Great watch!
Do some "before" and "after" shots please

hammertime · 20 April 2009, 01:57 PM

Well,

The watchband fell off when I tried to remove the back this morning. I have no idea how to take the back off. Do I need a special tool?

Maybe the band was meant to break off because I found the serial number. As suggested by other members replying to my question.

#365052 on one side
#6494 on the other side.

I put in a photo of the back.

I would LOVE to get this restored.

hammertime · 20 April 2009, 02:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Balboa

If you remove the band, the serial number can be found between the lugs at the 6 end. That will allow you to know the age by looking up the serial number. The model/case number will be found at the 12 end.

Looks like it might be a model 6294 and the dial is not all that horrible. It has acquired some personality. I notice the crown is not screwed down. Is it stripped? If so, it can be fixed.

Hope you get it fixed up and cleaned up. A very solid watch. My 1954 version still runs strong and gets worn frequently.

Mark

Have you ever serviced your watch? If so, how often? You were close with the model number. Its 6494.

SUB4Me · 20 April 2009, 02:12 PM

It most certainly can be made to look brand new again. The watch you see below was in MUCH WORSE condition than yours. A little TLC by a good watchmaker and Volla! I would just send it to an independent watchmaker/restorer at this point.

hammertime · 20 April 2009, 04:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SUB4Me

It most certainly can be made to look brand new again. The watch you see below was in MUCH WORSE condition than yours. A little TLC by a good watchmaker and Volla! I would just send it to an independent watchmaker/restorer at this point.

WOW What a gorgeous watch?!?!?! What year is yours?? I am getting pretty excited about getting mind restored now.

Do you mind if I ask what it cost you to get it fixed? And what sort of damage was it?

hammertime · 20 April 2009, 04:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Balboa

If you remove the band, the serial number can be found between the lugs at the 6 end. That will allow you to know the age by looking up the serial number. The model/case number will be found at the 12 end.

Looks like it might be a model 6294 and the dial is not all that horrible. It has acquired some personality. I notice the crown is not screwed down. Is it stripped? If so, it can be fixed.

Hope you get it fixed up and cleaned up. A very solid watch. My 1954 version still runs strong and gets worn frequently.

Mark

Have any pics? I would love to see it.

SUB4Me · 20 April 2009, 04:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hammertime

WOW What a gorgeous watch?!?!?! What year is yours?? I am getting pretty excited about getting mind restored now.

Do you mind if I ask what it cost you to get it fixed? And what sort of damage was it?

Its a Late 1952 or early 1953 mfg S/N It cost about $300.00 to have the movement re built the crystal changed all gaskets replaced and the face re painted, the face was quite bad because the watch was leaking also. Its like brand new now. The band on the watch is a Rolex Oyster reproduction I just could not find an old one in 19mm that was in nice enough condition for me, but im still looking! OK some B-4 Pics...

hammertime · 21 April 2009, 12:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SUB4Me

Its a Late 1952 or early 1953 mfg S/N It cost about $300.00 to have the movement re built the crystal changed all gaskets replaced and the face re painted, the face was quite bad because the watch was leaking also. Its like brand new now. The band on the watch is a Rolex Oyster reproduction I just could not find an old one in 19mm that was in nice enough condition for me, but im still looking! OK some B-4 Pics...

Do you wear it daily or is this a show watch??
I can't believe the difference. It looks like a brand new watch!!
I am pretty excited about getting mine done now.

jdc · 21 April 2009, 12:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hammertime

I was handed down a well loved, very worn Men's Oysterdate from the 1960's which has seen better days. The face appears water damaged (turned green) and the bezel is worn internally as it takes a while to manually wind it.
But it still works!!

I love this watch and haven't taken it to a watch maker's as I am unsure if they will keep the original parts. Will Rolex service this much damage?

I have one that is very similar to yours 1956, ref 6494 with a 1210 movement. A local watchmaker repaired mine recently. He said that movement was easier to get the parts than some of that era. If you want the dial refinished that is a specialist job and I would not let just anyone do it. Good guys on this forum as stated. Good luck.

Fatso · 21 April 2009, 02:11 AM

Most people would agree that Bob Ridley at http://www.watchmakers.com/ would be the best place to have your watch restored.

SUB4Me · 21 April 2009, 03:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hammertime

Do you wear it daily or is this a show watch??
I can't believe the difference. It looks like a brand new watch!!
I am pretty excited about getting mine done now.

I don't wear it daily but I do wear it. Yes its a good thing to give new life back to something so beautiful.

cwru32 · 21 April 2009, 03:46 AM

please post some pics after restorations. thats one nice watch

20 April 2009, 01:17 AM	#1
hammertime Member Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Australia Posts: 16	Will Rolex service a badly damaged watch? I was handed down a well loved, very worn Men's Oysterdate from the 1960's which has seen better days. The face appears water damaged (turned green) and the bezel is worn internally as it takes a while to manually wind it. But it still works!! I love this watch and haven't taken it to a watch maker's as I am unsure if they will keep the original parts. Will Rolex service this much damage?

20 April 2009, 01:32 AM	#4
Bisquitlips 2025 Pledge Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Real Name: Richard Location: USA Watch: YM Deep Space Posts: 12,526	I would suggest you contact Dalton here on this forum. His work is amazing! __________________ Rolex Yacht-Master 40mm (SS-YG / Deep Space MOP) 16623 Breitling Aerospace Titanium / 18K with UTC. Omega Speedmaster 3510.50 Oris TT1 Pro Diver Regulator 43MM

20 April 2009, 01:41 AM	#5
SLS "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Real Name: Scott Location: GMT -7 Watch: GMT's & Sub's Posts: 10,401	There are several watchmakers that specialize in dial restoration, Bob Ridley here in the US has done some amazing work. If memory serves, there is a gentleman I Australia who has a good reputation as well. It's worth the effort to contact these watchmakers before sending the watch off to a Rolex service center. Please post pics. Scott __________________ "The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of lower price is forgotten." -Benjamin Franklin Member No. 922

20 April 2009, 03:36 AM	#8
hammertime Member Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Australia Posts: 16	Here is a pic of the oysterdate. I have no idea of model of serial number, I have no papers. Not really interested in value, I want to keep this one. I don't think it would be worth much with all this damage anyways. It has had a long and interesting life. I am guessing it would be a costly restoration knowing where I can get it done would be a great start. Thanks all, a lot of knowledge being passed around this site.... Attached Images

20 April 2009, 01:57 PM	#15
hammertime Member Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Australia Posts: 16	Well, The watchband fell off when I tried to remove the back this morning. I have no idea how to take the back off. Do I need a special tool? Maybe the band was meant to break off because I found the serial number. As suggested by other members replying to my question. #365052 on one side #6494 on the other side. I put in a photo of the back. I would LOVE to get this restored. Attached Images

20 April 2009, 01:28 AM	#3
TimeToGo 2025 Pledge Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: North Florida Posts: 16,769	If Rolex feels the original parts will compromise the movement in the future, ie scaling of the dial, they will not service the watch. Post a couple of pics, there are some great watchmakers that will make the watch RIGHT for you! Cheers and WELCOME to the FORUM!!!

20 April 2009, 01:48 AM	#6
diablojota "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Real Name: Frank Location: Chattanooga, TN Watch: SS Submariner Date Posts: 4,042	Rolex most likely won't work on your watch because it is too old. Contact one of the suggested watchmakers mentioned above and they'll make it good as new. __________________ RTFT - Read The Friggin' Thread FcB

20 April 2009, 02:14 AM	#7
Dalton TechXpert Join Date: Mar 2008 Real Name: Dal Location: Seattle Watch: 168000 Posts: 1,614	Rolex wont touch it but I will and so will Bob R. I repair lots of vintage stuff. Got a pic?

20 April 2009, 04:18 AM	#9
Dalton TechXpert Join Date: Mar 2008 Real Name: Dal Location: Seattle Watch: 168000 Posts: 1,614	Looks like a 50's-60's model. Have you opened it to look inside? If you can properly open it, please post a pic. the movement is what I want to see at this point.

20 April 2009, 04:20 AM	#10
gettocard Banned Join Date: Dec 2008 Real Name: Andy Location: EU Watch: them come and go.. Posts: 2,052	wow...looks stunning !! You lucky you !!

20 April 2009, 05:18 AM	#11
Boopie "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Beverly Hills, CA Watch: Yachtmaster Posts: 3,985	It looks like a nice watch. There are several reputable watch repair shops who will give you a free estimate. It's up to you to decide if it's worth it. My husband inherited some vintage (40s-50s) watches which, while nice, aren't Rolexes. We ended up fixing a really cool-looking Movado for about $350. That was about the price we were willing to pay. We probably wouldn't have repaired it for $500. We also have a Baume & Mercier chronograph which will cost over $500 to repair (because of the chronograph complications), plus the cost of a band. That one probably isn't worth repairing at this point. We also have some newer watches that cost much, much more to repair than they are worth (such as a Hamilton with water damage, due to a defective crown). Those watches will stay "dead," I'm afraid. I would, however, put a vintage Rolex, Patek, etc. in a separate category than our Movado and Baume & Mercier. If I owned your watch, for example, and a reputable watch maker would fix it so that it could be worn, and could do so for $1000 or less, I would do it. If it were a Movado, I wouldn't do it for that price. Everyone has their price point.

20 April 2009, 06:12 AM	#13
JNOV Member Join Date: Apr 2009 Real Name: Johnathon Location: NY Watch: GMT 16710 SS Posts: 48	Dude....Lets see the inside of this baby!

20 April 2009, 07:19 AM	#14
abr68 Banned Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: Axel Location: Germany Watch: view my signature Posts: 612	When I see that front I would wonder if the movement is in a condition Dalton or Bob can´t help. Great watch! Do some "before" and "after" shots please

20 April 2009, 02:12 PM	#17
SUB4Me Banned Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: USA Posts: 99	It most certainly can be made to look brand new again. The watch you see below was in MUCH WORSE condition than yours. A little TLC by a good watchmaker and Volla! I would just send it to an independent watchmaker/restorer at this point. Attached Images

21 April 2009, 02:11 AM	#23
Fatso "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Real Name: Paul Location: Montreal Watch: GMT 1675 Posts: 129	Most people would agree that Bob Ridley at http://www.watchmakers.com/ would be the best place to have your watch restored. __________________ '78 Submariner 1680 '78 GMT 1675 GMT II 16710 Tudor Day-Date (California dial) Breil OKAY Manta

21 April 2009, 03:46 AM	#25
cwru32 "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Edmonton Watch: GMT IIC TT Posts: 443	please post some pics after restorations. thats one nice watch __________________ بدست من امروز جز این قلم نیست، باری خدمتی میکنم ـ ابوالفضل بیهقی

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