Restore or Buy 16800 matte dial

[The Duke]

So I have a 8.2 mil 16800 that was give to me by my father. Took this original into AD to be serviced. When it was returned the dial and hands were replaced with the newer gloss dial white gold around the markers and the clasp was replaced with a service model circa 2004. Confronted the AD and was told it was to late all parts were exchanged with Rolex. So will I pay more to return the watch to its original condition or should I just buy one that is original for the same period?

[swatty]

Gee, they didn't ask you first before changing the dial ?

[The Duke]

No. This AD didn't say anything until it was to late.

[U5512]

I would keep the watch AS IS since it's from your father. I would never sell a watch if it was from my family. Wear the watch in its current condition, and you can start looking to buy the matte dial and original tritium hands. Tritium hands for Rolex caliber 3035/3135 are easier to find, but the dial is the hardest part. GOOD LUCK!!!

[SAAS]

That's horrible I would find out what service center they sent it to call them directly explain that this was done with out your permission and hope for good luck. No one knows what they do with the parts send them to Geneva, destroy on site etc. If this was all in the last week don't give up too easy.

[Kingface66]

Originally Posted by SAAS

That's horrible I would find out what service center they sent it to call them directly explain that this was done with out your permission and hope for good luck. No one knows what they do with the parts send them to Geneva, destroy on site etc. If this was all in the last week don't give up too easy.

Agree.
Normally, I'd regard a situation like this as not worth fighting, as it likely wouldn't be worth it, what with Rolex having their strict policies in place. But, in this case, the AD had every obligation to apprise you of what was going to happen to your watch. Does he not understand the what the dial change does to the value of the watch?? It's the dial, not a frickin' gasket!

[The Duke]

I have spoke with both the AD and Rolex. AD said it was sent back to Rolex for exchange and Rolex has no record of the service unless it was done in house. They are very nice and tell me that there is nothing they can do to recover my original dial. They did call around to see if a matte service dial was available but those were gone a long time ago. Seems like it would be cheaper to buy a 16800 with similar 8.2 SN that is original and exchange dial, hands and clasp rather than buy them individual.

[J!m]

That is absolutely horrible.

Negligence on the part of the dealer destroys a family heirloom. I think the dealer needs to be outed here please.

Unacceptable and unprofessional.

[KenNethcole]

I've a 16800 myself and had seen matt dial pop up for sale twice. Be patience and watch the sales section.

[The Duke]

Thanks. What should I pay for a mk1-2 dial and hands? I see crazy prices on eBay for something I would've even put in my watch give the condition.

[Gina Marie]

I have one if needed. A mark 1 dial and hand set.