1974 Explorer II Orange Hand

[rkjjeep]

I received this watch in 1976 as a graduation present and have worn it nearly every day since then. It's been cleaned and serviced maybe three times and no parts (other than crystal and band) have been changed. It runs great but needs a crystal and band and probably a service. I know all about the crazy reputation of this watch. My father ordered a plain Explorer and this came in by mistake. He apologized about the "wrong" watch and I've been thanking him ever since.

I sent it off to Dallas and they seem disinterested in doing what I've requested. They said they "might" have to change parts that would make it less collectible and I had them send it back.

I am looking for a recommendation for HONEST watch repair in the Ann Arbor Detroit MI area that will do what I need.

Thanks!!!!!!!

[omitohud]

ABCwatchwerks in Los Angeles is highly regarded and have used myself with good satisfaction. They know vintage.

[AS1]

nice background story! agree with Sam's recommendation. would love to see a photo of the watch on here!

[rkjjeep]

I'll post a picture as soon as I get it back from Rolex Dallas. I also have my father's very nice 1954.

[RC2]

Nice mistake he made

[omitohud]

Originally Posted by rkjjeep

I'll post a picture as soon as I get it back from Rolex Dallas. I also have my father's very nice 1954.

Please do as well as ur other watch. We luv pics here.👍


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[Brushpup]

Yes, please post them both, and welcome to the forum.

[rkjjeep]

I'll try to post pics this weekend. It is a straight second hand watch with ser # in 3,300,000 range. Original hands and dial, crystal replaced in 2004 and will need another crystal. The 2004 service included crown and tube and crystal. My mother just added info to the story. Dad ordered me a regular explorer and the dealer gave him a deal on this watch as it had been sitting there unwanted in the case, maybe for as long as 2 years. Bought in may of 76.

[Tools]

Sounds like a sweet watch.

I prefer the GMT's and Exp IIs to the other offerings..

[rkjjeep]

Got it back from Rolex Dallas today. They had called my AD and said they would clean and check it but would not guarantee original hands and dial would still be on it so I had them return it without work. It keeps great time, bottom of crystal is scarred. I think I have found a place on the W side of MI to replace crystal, clean and check.

[nsumner]

Beautiful 1665, looks like it will clean up nicely with minimal intervention.

[AS1]

nice, agree it doesn't look like it needs very much work!