Rolex bezel

[joefow]

Hi all-
I just inherited a 15 year old Submariner with black bezel. It seems to be chipping or fading, like the black paint. I don't know much about watches, but is this common after 15 years? Or, if not common, heard of? idk when it was last serviced.
Thanks- Joe

[Dan Pierce]

Originally Posted by joefow

Hi all-
I just inherited a 15 year old Submariner with black bezel. It seems to be chipping or fading, like the black paint. I don't know much about watches, but is this common after 15 years? Or, if not common, heard of? idk when it was last serviced.
Thanks- Joe

Joe,
Those bezels are anodized aluminum. They will fade and scratch but not sure I've seen them chip. You can order another from an AD but try to keep the original as vintage fans love the aged patina. Might have to find an independent watchmaker w/ a Rolex account to do that though.
dP

[joefow]

Yeah Dan,
That's what i figured. I was thinking about purposely fading the bezel entirely. Ya know, to go for that vintage/rugged look. Any suggestions on that?

[Dan Pierce]

Originally Posted by joefow

Yeah Dan,
That's what i figured. I was thinking about purposely fading the bezel entirely. Ya know, to go for that vintage/rugged look. Any suggestions on that?

Sorry, I don't. Sounds like it's already on it's way.
dP

[catgrader]

chiped paint on bezel is that common?

[esm]

Any chance of posting a pic of the watch with faded/chipped bezel insert?

[sakuraba]

Originally Posted by joefow

Yeah Dan,
That's what i figured. I was thinking about purposely fading the bezel entirely. Ya know, to go for that vintage/rugged look. Any suggestions on that?

I believe the fading is random. Some fade more than others.

Which would be the reason IMHO why faded ones cost more.

Good luck!