1st service to 18038

[Chints]

Hello !
I have an inherited classic 1982 yellowgold DD.
I have added two extra links which are custom made and look the same.
1) Can i give it to service(RSC)with the aftermarket links or removing them is better ?
2) Did the old 18038 come with steel spring bars ?

[Oystersteel92]

Originally Posted by Chints

Hello !
I have an inherited classic 1982 yellowgold DD.
I have added two extra links which are custom made and look the same.
1) Can i give it to service(RSC)with the aftermarket links or removing them is better ?
2) Did the old 18038 come with steel spring bars ?

They may very well refuse to service it with aftermarket parts, so I would remove them. Otherwise, RSC is absolutely the way to go, especially if you don't know the service history. What a fine watch and it will be even better after the overhaul.

[enjoythemusic]

Agreed, remove the custom bracelet parts and then send to RSC for service

[Chints]

Did the old 18038 come with steel spring bars ?

[TheWatchmen]

Originally Posted by Chints

Did the old 18038 come with steel spring bars ?

No, 18k spring bars. Since steel is harder than gold over time it can/will cause wear in the bracelet and case where they are inserted. New ones are about $50 each.

As for the bracelet, if you send the watch to the service center I think they will keep the links because they are “counterfeit”.

If it were me, I’d take those links out and do whatever you want with them. When it’s in for service, pony up the cash for two genuine links…or just put them back onto the bracelet when you get it back.

[Chints]

Thank you will remove the links and send it for service.

[fania123]

My advice send it to Mike at Rolliworks he is much better than RSC for vintage pieces. He has serviced my 18038 as well as a few of my 5 digit pieces and he really is incredible.

[tifosi]

As already stated, take out the aftermarket links.
I'd also ask to buy 2 genuine links while it is there. They will polish the bracelet during service, then when you get it back and add your links, they aren't going to match all that well anymore I have a feeling.

[Chints]

No what if i tell them not to polish the bracelet ?

[tifosi]

Originally Posted by Chints

No what if i tell them not to polish the bracelet ?

You could do that too.

[George58]

The spring in side are steel while the pin are gold. You can't make a spring out of gold won't work.

[ronricks]

Originally Posted by Chints

Hello !
I have an inherited classic 1982 yellowgold DD.
I have added two extra links which are custom made and look the same.
1) Can i give it to service(RSC)with the aftermarket links or removing them is better ?
2) Did the old 18038 come with steel spring bars ?

RSC will replace the steel spring bars as they will actually damage the holes by rubbing against the gold. Even gold springbars are cheap. They will also remove any non genuine links.

[fskywalker]

Originally Posted by Chints

Thank you will remove the links and send it for service.

RSC is the way to go! Friend recently sent his 18038 and very happy with the result. You may decline polishing if you want, in my case have been very satisfied in the past with their polishing


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[fivedime]

Originally Posted by TheWatchmen

No, 18k spring bars…New ones are about $50 each.

$52 as of last month…

[GMT Aviator]

What others have said. They will remove and confiscate non genuine links. I’ve had this happen at RSC in the Uk.
Also, gold spring bars for this watch currently about £45. Bought some for a RG DD about 6 months ago from same RSC.

[BNA/LION]

I'd send it to Tom at D's Time. He rebuilt mine and did a wonderful job! Uses genuine Rolex parts, is certified Repair shop and prices are better than RSC.