Rare Rolex 6542 with Bakelite bezel!!!

[timepiecegentleman]

A friend of mine has just come across this beautiful old Rolex that belonged to a family member of hers. She has asked my help in deciding how to proceed with it. Trying to source some more info as to whether this is a piece she should sell, restore, hold on to, etc? If there are any vintage experts that could share some info it would be very much appreciated.

I believe she is interested in selling but before so, I would like to know all our options.

1. What is the value of this piece in its current condition?
2. There is some significant wear and tear as you can see from the pics. Is this piece able to be repaired? If so, is there a time frame you think it would take?
3. Is there any Vintage watch repair professional around the Dallas area that specialize in this type of piece?

I took these pictures Wednesday, February 7th.
The watch is currently in her possession but if there are any questions or concerns that cannot be obtained from the pics, please feel free to let me know and I can find out.

I know people get hesitant with whether someone actually has a piece in their possession or not so that was my disclaimer that it's not with me personally but I have access if need be. Just gathering info at the moment.

Any and all info is greatly appreciated.

Anthony

[MILGAUSS88]

Dial and hands have been replaced which will hurt the value quite a bit

[Paul]

Always a treat to see a 6542 pop up.

Nice to see the bakelite insert has survived ... that has serious value in any condition if it is indeed a genuine item.

The dial (if genuine) is from a later reference 1675, so would have had the locating feet removed to fit the 1030 base movement in a 6542. The 6542 has a 'pan' dial too while the 1675 dials are flat, so there may be a visible gap at the edge of the dial currently fitted. Might be a genuine Mk1 1675 dial we are seeing in the pics, but the lower text in particular seems to have a clumsy refunished look to it - might just be the low res. pics. Almost impossible to find a correct gilt 6542 dial and it's easily north of $10k now for one in just 'ok' condition. Another $2k + for a nice matching, original mini-GMT hand set too.

Needs a service too. The date and the GMT hand are each out of alignment. Bracelet is a nice C&I rivet item but it's wrong era for the watch. The case looks reasonable though.

Arlington, Texas (20 miles from Dallas ?) has one of the world's best Rolex techs. Bob Ridley at 'Watchmakers International' specialises in vintage Rolex too. Not cheap but considered by many to be the best. Might be worthwhile for the OP to talk to Bob about options.

[Autavian]

Pics are not the greatest but here’s what I gather:

Dial is refinished and not original. OCC dial is needed for the ref.
Good looking case.
Bakelite is not too bad.
Later hands also.

Would need to see:

Better serial and ref. engravings
Caseback stamping
Movt

Your value is in the case(if original) and insert. Love these treasures. Good luck.