Rolex authorized repairs

[diversified]

I just returned from my local AD looking at yachtmasters and was told that if I sent a Rolex back to Rolex for maintenance, repairs, etc., and if any non Rolex parts are on the watch, Rolex will not touch the watch. Does anybody know if this is true?

[sea-dweller]

Yes it is. No aftermarket parts at all are accepted by the RSC's.

[jfishe08]

It's called "CONTROL" :)

[Tools]

Well...

They will work on it...if you agree to have them return it to the factory fresh way it was produced...

I think this is good if your new purchase of a used watch contains some gears, wheels, or other parts that are not Rolex. It will bring it back to new tolerances and function..

I think it does a disservice to those who have put diamond bezels or different bracelets/straps on their time-piece..

Fortunately, there are plenty of good, qualified watchmakers to work on a Rolex without having to send it to an RSC every time it hiccups..

[armypilot]

I agree with tools. I have never sent my watch to an RSC for service. In 26 years all of the services have been performed by Rolex certified technicians at AD's. My 16750 GMT-Master has a matte dial that is absolutely pristine, but if I sent it to an RSC they would replace that dial with a newer, gloss dial which would totally ruin my watch IMHO.

[SPACE-DWELLER]

RSC will always bring Rolex watches back to their original state, so if aftermarket parts are added, you will void the guarantee, and RSC will put the Rolex watch back to its original state, at your expensive.

[JBat]

Originally Posted by armypilot

I agree with tools. I have never sent my watch to an RSC for service. In 26 years all of the services have been performed by Rolex certified technicians at AD's. My 16750 GMT-Master has a matte dial that is absolutely pristine, but if I sent it to an RSC they would replace that dial with a newer, gloss dial which would totally ruin my watch IMHO.

J.D did your watch originally come with the matte dial? If so, it's amazing to me that Rolex would change it out to a newer dial, especially since it looks like yours is in perfect condition. I don't understand that policy.

[bwalkerVintage]

Originally Posted by JBat

J.D did your watch originally come with the matte dial? If so, it's amazing to me that Rolex would change it out to a newer dial, especially since it looks like yours is in perfect condition. I don't understand that policy.

They wouldn't force the change unless the lume was flaking off or there was some other problem.

[armypilot]

Originally Posted by JBat

J.D did your watch originally come with the matte dial? If so, it's amazing to me that Rolex would change it out to a newer dial, especially since it looks like yours is in perfect condition. I don't understand that policy.

Yes, It is the original matte dial. It is my understanding that if I took my watch to an RSC , they would replace the dial as part of the overhaul/refurbishment process.It would be replaced with a gloss dial with the gilt surrounds due to that being the last dial style fitted to the later produced 16750 GMT's. My 16750 was produced in 1980 and the 16750's produced from 1980-1983/84 had the matte dial.

[Peter Messmore]

That is correct Bo.They will work on it but as stated will remove any after market parts and replace them at your expense,Good Luck,Peter

[pilapandet]

That is mean my wife TT lady DateJust will never see RSC ever. Because, it has custom MP with diamond marker dial and custom diamond bezel. That is really suck. I don't see Benz or BMW come after those people that replace their original wheel and custom their car. If, the movement part was replace by after market parts, then it is difference story. They can claim that it would effect the quality of their watch. But, for cosmetic reason? That, to me is nut. Damn RSC any way. I just have my GMT service by my local repairman. It take only one week and less than half of the cost of RSC. And my watch is about one second off perday. Try that RSC.

P.S. When my wife DJ has problem after purchase from this guy after few year. He service and replace the part with out charged. That is what they call CUSTOMER SERVICE.

[Dan Pierce]

You guys don't get it. We don't OWN these Rolex watches. We just lease them from Rolex and pay for the privilege of wearing THEIR watches.
Patek advertises: You don't really own a Patek you're just holding it for the next generation. Well if you want to wear a Rolex and have RSC even consider you as human you better follow the rules.
dP

[StanGMT]

Originally Posted by Dan Pierce

You guys don't get it. We don't OWN these Rolex watches. We just lease them from Rolex and pay for the privilege of wearing THEIR watches.
Patek advertises: You don't really own a Patek you're just holding it for the next generation. Well if you want to wear a Rolex and have RSC even consider you as human you better follow the rules.
dP

Nice one, Dan!!

[The Mole]

I hate to play devils advocate, however Rolex always seems to take alot of heat for this policy. This policy was not always in place. When Rolex used to service watches with aftermarket parts including watches during the "dark ages" when new watches (at the AD) were presented with 5 or 6 loose dials next to them available for installation somthing like 60-70% of them would come back in for warranty work.

I don't berate anyone for wanting to customize their car, watch or anything else, however Rolex has the right to be protective of their brand image which includes the quality of the repair work done at RSC.

IMHO

[Dan Pierce]

Originally Posted by The Mole

I hate to play devils advocate, however Rolex always seems to take alot of heat for this policy. This policy was not always in place. When Rolex used to service watches with aftermarket parts including watches during the "dark ages" when new watches (at the AD) were presented with 5 or 6 loose dials next to them available for installation somthing like 60-70% of them would come back in for warranty work.

I don't berate anyone for wanting to customize their car, watch or anything else, however Rolex has the right to be protective of their brand image which includes the quality of the repair work done at RSC.

IMHO

Good points Mole. And in fact, Rolex policies help our watches maintain a high value compared to other brands. My comments were a sad attempt at humor. I just wish Rolex had a different attitude about there rich history in terms of vintage pieces.
But we put up with it cause we love the brand.
dP