Rolex Servicing Old Watches

[pyxis]

I've read here on various posts that Rolex generally only services watches up to around 30 years old. Personally I think this is a rather short given that a reasonably well look after Rolex can last for many decades. Does this apply across the board to all models?

Also does anyone know how this "30 years" is calculated:

- From the day watch left factory?

- day it was sold?

- day the model was discontinued?

Thanks in advance to all replies.

[MonBK]

There is no 30 year limit for service as they will service the watch depending on parts availability.

[JBat]

You also don't have to use RSC if for some reason they won't service a particular watch. Plenty of good independent watchmakers out there with a lot of experience servicing Rolex wristwatches.

[conrail]

There is no "30-year" cut off. If they can get the necessary parts and have someone to do the work, a RSC will service it. Generally I think parts availability will be the biggest limiting factor, rather than someone skilled who can do it. As was mentioned, you can always take it too a good independent watchmaker; there are plenty of good ones around the US/world.

[Alcan]

I guess it varies by country. Rolex Canada will service any model for which they still have parts, except those which have what they deem an "exotic" dial. I guess that's because the dial can't be replaced should something happen to it during servicing.

This was serviced by Rolex a couple of years ago. Its circa 1960, so that makes it around 50 years old and they still have all the spares to service the 1400 movement. They also sent the case/bracelet out to a third party goldsmith for a repair, and recommended we have the dial redone by another third party refinisher. We declined that part of the service.

[pyxis]

Thanks all, good to know. Well as I hope to live to a ripe old age before passing my GMT IIC to my son, I hope Rolex keep lots of part for it!

[SLS]

I believe Rolex states that they guarantee they will be able to service a watch for thirty years once discontinued, meaning they will have the parts in stock. Rolex was willing to service my 1967 5513, which, at the time, was over 40 years old. SO unless it is an exotic dialed watch, chances are, Rolex will service it.
Scott

[pyxis]

Originally Posted by SLS

I believe Rolex states that they guarantee they will be able to service a watch for thirty years once discontinued, meaning they will have the parts in stock. Rolex was willing to service my 1967 5513, which, at the time, was over 40 years old. SO unless it is an exotic dialed watch, chances are, Rolex will service it.
Scott

Thanks, that makes sense, so 30-year is the minimum. So hopefully for standard sports model with run of the mill dials, hopefully alot longer.