I inherited a 6694 from my favorite uncle...

[robvolz]

Actually he is still alive and well, but he said, instead of waiting for him to pass, he wanted me to have it and enjoy it now.

I'm not new to the Rolex scene, having owned a yacht master or two.

In fact, I sold my 1st YM to pay for my first wedding. Best decision ever. Not only did it show sacrifice but I always had an excuse for being late.

Years later I bought it back from Alex Watch Works in Portland OR. I have always trusted them and continue to.

Back to the 6694…. He bought it while serving in the Navy. The box says 2/66.

Alex Watch Works (AWW) says the band is shot. The fold-over links are too far gone. I find it hard to believe but I trust their word so….

Are people buying newer bands and transferring the clasp and end bits over?

Is there a new band king with all the right date stamps and not an arm and leg pricing?

I have several watches already with the padded leather bands from Wanna Buy a Watch from back in the day, but this will be my new daily and I want a proper metal band.

What are your suggestions?
Robert
Portland OR

[TimeToGo]

.
Would love to see pictures.

Sounds you have the original box, how about papers ?!

7835s are not that expensive, Ebay is your best friend..

Unless you wanted to make it period correct, your best bet is as you mention, transfer the clasp to a different bracelet.... or just keep the old bracelet in the box. I personally would not swap the parts out.

The type of bracelet 7835 or a newer model 78350 would be your choice / preference based on wear.

Good Luck

[1William]

Welcome to the Forum. Interesting story. Some pictures would be great.

[Dan S]

Please show good photos of the bracelet, including the damage. If original from 1966, I am guessing it's a rivet bracelet, but it would be helpful to know which type. If it's a Swiss 7205, it would be worth repairing, if it's a C&I, then I'm not sure I would bother, but that's really a personal choice. Depending on the details, you can probably have it repaired/restored by Rolliworks for the same price as a replacement, or less. And most replacements you buy will also have some stretch.

[TuRo]

Welcome- Yours 'if folded link' will have a 7835/19 folded link - they are pretty resilient £400-500 gets a top quality one if it needs replacing and a earlier rivet just £250 more - a photo needed please if you'd be so kind :-)

[Woody]

Personally I would just switch to a 78350 bracelet. I did that with my 6494 and just kept the worn 7205 bracelet in the box. The 78350 is a big upgrade and one of my favourite Rolex bracelets


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[zapokee]

Agree with the consensus.

I wouldn't transfer vintage components (clasp, end links, etc.) onto a new bracelet. Just get a new bracelet and rock it on that.

[Styles Bitchley]

So...he's always been your favourite uncle or he is now that he gave you his Rolex?

[seiko92]

Would love to see pictures.

[breukelenvr6]

Pics please :)